Review of Cheaper by the Dozen 2 (2005) by Mickey M — 07 Mar 2013

"Tom" (Steve Martin) and "Kate Baker" (Bonnie Hunt) are starting the part of parenthood that many parents dread -- their oldest kids are starting to enter adulthood and are beginning to move out of the house. And out of the two, "Tom" is taking the changes hardest since he is so close to his 12 children.

After the graduation party of their daughter "Lorraine" (Hillary Duff), "Tom" gets an idea for a family vacation at the lake they use to go to when the kids were younger.

However, when they get there, they have to deal with the highly competitive "Jimmy Murtaugh" (Eugene Levy) and family, many of which befriends the "Bakers," against "Tom" and "Jimmy's" wishes.

There are a bunch of comical moments in this film. Many are predictable as they are being set up, while others will only cause a good chuckle.

There are many subplots in the film, mostly of a romance nature. They dominate much of the film, but are blended with the other subplots nicely.

Many of the performances appeared well done to me. Levy and Martin had great comedic chemistry together and steal many scenes they share. Many of the children also do good at their performances. Hunt wasn't give a lot of things to do, especially anything in the comedy department.

The movie is great for the entire family. Although, real young children could get bored with it since the comedy isn't targeting them. However, there is a good message that this movie presents nicely near the end.

Unlike other sequels to other movies, "Cheaper by the Dozen 2" stands up on its own nicely. You really don't need to see the first movie, like I did.