Bringing Down the House 2003

Peter Sanderson, portrayed by Steve Martin, is a dedicated yet overworked tax attorney who finds himself navigating the complexities of personal life following a separation from his wife, Kate, played by Jean Smart. As Peter focuses on his career, he often neglects his children, Sarah and Georgie. Meanwhile, Kate is moving on with her life, now dating a younger man, Glen, who used to caddie for Peter back in the day. Adding to the family drama is Ashley, Kate’s younger sister, whose gold-digging tendencies are all too apparent.

In a bid for connection, Peter sets up a blind date at his home with Charlene Morton, enacted by Queen Latifah, a woman he has been conversing with online. To his dismay, he discovers that Charlene is not just a typical date but a felon reaching out to him from prison. As their interactions unfold, Charlene attempts to blackmail Peter using their chat transcripts, claiming she is innocent of armed robbery but ultimately gets kicked out after throwing a wild party at his home and locking him out.

Just when Peter is gearing up to impress a potential new client, Mrs. Virginia Arness (Joan Plowright), he finds himself caught up in an unexpected turn of events thanks to Charlene, who unwittingly captures the attention of his colleague, Eugene Levy. Reluctantly agreeing to assist her in clearing her name, Peter falsely introduces Charlene as his nanny when a confrontation arises with his estranged wife.

Tension escalates when Peter invites Charlene out for dinner, leading to unexpected jealousy from Kate. As the narrative progresses, Charlene helps Peter reconnect with his children by guiding him on how to be a more present and understanding father. However, a shocking TV news report labels Charlene a fugitive, complicating Peter’s efforts to help her.

Faced with escalating stakes, Peter must navigate threats from Charlene’s dangerous ex-boyfriend, Widow, who is intent on keeping her silent. As Peter pieces together the truth behind the blackmail and robbery, he risks everything to rescue Charlene, confronting Widow at a club to clear her name.

The climax unfolds with action and chaos as Peter records Widow’s confession, exposing his deceit while protecting Charlene. In the end, Peter not only secures Mrs. Arness as a key client but also manages to reconcile with Kate, leading to a newfound understanding between them. As Peter and Charlene part ways, grateful for the lessons they’ve learned, they each embark on a new chapter in their lives, hinting at fresh beginnings for all.