Cheaper by the Dozen

Tom Baker and Kate met at Illinois Polytechnic University, where Tom aspired to be a football coach and Kate aimed to be a sports reporter. Their connection was instant, with Kate knowing Tom was the one for her after just one hour of meeting, leading them to dream of a big family.

After having three children, Tom and Kate decided that raising a large family was more important than pursuing their careers. They made significant sacrifices, moving to Midland, Illinois, and buying a large house to accommodate their growing family.

After the couple welcomed ten children, Tom got a vasectomy, believing their family was complete. However, they were unexpectedly surprised to have twins nine months later due to the procedure not being immediately effective.

Tom accepts a coaching position at his alma mater in Evanston, despite his children's protests about leaving their friends. Emphasizing his dream job, Tom pushes for family support, but tensions rise within the household as they adjust to the new environment.

The Baker family meets their new neighbors, Tina and Bill Shenk, and their son Dylan. During a visit, Dylan unwittingly brings fun into the household as he plays hockey with the Baker kids and swings from the chandelier, leading to a chaotic but joyful experience.

Nora's self-absorbed boyfriend, Hank, is dragged into the chaos of the Baker household. The children, disliking Hank, prank him by soaking his clothes in raw meat and unleashing their dog Gunner on him, prompting Hank and Nora to leave angrily.

Despite Tom's efforts to manage the household, chaos reigns as the younger kids cause mayhem, leading to a night filled with injuries and vomit. Realizing he needs help, Tom faces overwhelming guilt and stress as he struggles with his responsibilities.

Tom attempts to control the situation by bringing local football players to practice in the living room. However, his younger children escape and crash Dylan's birthday party, causing further chaos, including the release of a snake that causes panic.

Charlie feels disconnected and frustrated after being kicked off the football team, accusing Tom of moving for his own dreams instead of the family’s wellbeing. This leads him to consider returning to Midland, deepening the family's fractures.

After a series of chaotic events, Kate’s publisher arranges for Oprah Winfrey to film the Bakers in their home. Kate hopes to create the loving family atmosphere she described in her best-selling book, but finds it difficult as the family continues to unravel.

A heated argument erupts after Mark's pet frog dies, leading to Mark running away to pursue his old home. During the search, Tom realizes that the family's bonds are strained and begin addressing their unresolved issues.

Tom discovers Mark en route to Midland, and this reunion helps the family confront their struggles. They hold a small funeral for the frog, symbolizing their commitment to heal and reconnect as a family.

In a pivotal turning point, Tom resigns from his coaching job to prioritize his family and their needs. This decision marks a commitment to rebuilding their connections and spending quality time with each other.

The Baker family comes together to celebrate Christmas, symbolizing their newfound unity and resilience. As they revel in the joy of the season, the chandelier in their living room breaks, marking a humorous end to their tumultuous journey.

Kate's book, which details their chaotic yet loving family life, becomes a bestseller, bringing recognition and success. Tom receives multiple job offers and ultimately chooses a position that allows him to stay close to home.