CHEAPER BY THE DOZEN (1950)
A four-star portrait of family life and faithful abundance.
Should You Watch It?
Yes. This real-life story of the Gilbreth family shows how a large family can be organized while celebrating the blessing of having many children. The source review especially praises a wonderful scene in which the father and mother ironically skewer a prissy, stuck-up representative from Planned Parenthood.
The film’s greatest strength is its family at the center. Clifton Webb plays an unforgettable father, while Myrna Loy brings a strong, supportive mother to the story. Together, they give the film warmth, conviction, and a picture of family life that the source review rates among the very best.
For a family-centered film with positive content, WORTH THE TRIP.
The Story
NO SPOILERS — WE KEEP THE SURPRISESBased on the real-life Gilbreth family, the film follows the challenges and rewards of organizing a large household. At its center are an unforgettable father and a strong, supportive mother, whose shared life gives the story its heart.
Is It Any Good?
Four stars means the source review considers this an outstanding film. Its strongest elements are the wonderful scene involving the Planned Parenthood representative and the memorable central performances.
Clifton Webb is praised as an unforgettable father. Myrna Loy is described as a strong, supportive mother. The source review offers no further craft criticism or technical analysis.
The Worldview
The source review presents the film as a celebration of large families and the biblical idea to “be fruitful and multiply.” It clearly favors family life and portrays the father and mother as a united, supportive team.
The review also describes Planned Parenthood as evil and praises the scene in which the parents ironically skewer its prissy, stuck-up representative. That judgment places the film firmly on the side of welcoming children and defending the family’s value.
The film’s central vision aligns with God’s blessing in creation: “And God blessed them. And God said to them, ‘Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth’” (Genesis 1:28).
Talk About It
Questions for the drive home, the dinner table, or the youth group.
What might be the blessings and responsibilities of raising a large family?
Genesis 1:28 · Psalm 127:3–5The parents work together to care for their household. What does supportive partnership look like in your family?
Ecclesiastes 4:9–10 · Philippians 2:3–4The film’s premise points toward welcoming children. How does Scripture describe children as a gift?
Psalm 127:3 · Mark 10:13–16How can you respond wisely and graciously when someone looks down on family commitments or convictions?
Colossians 4:5–6 · 1 Peter 3:15The Final Word
This four-star story celebrates family life, large households, and parents who stand together. Clifton Webb and Myrna Loy make the Gilbreth family memorable. For viewers looking for positive family-centered entertainment, the answer is clear: WORTH THE TRIP.
