Bringing Down the House (film)

Bringing Down the House is a 2003 American comedy film directed by Adam Shankman and starring Steve Martin and Queen Latifah. The film centers on Peter Sanderson (Martin), a divorced, uptight tax attorney who connects with Charlene Morton (Latifah), an escaped convict posing as a lawyer, through an online chat room.

Peter believes Charlene to be a white, Ivy League-educated lawyer and is shocked when he discovers her true identity. Despite his initial reservations, Charlene insinuates herself into his life, disrupting his attempts to reconcile with his ex-wife Kate (Jean Smart) and impressing a wealthy, potential client, Mrs. Arness (Joan Plowright).

The film follows Peter as he struggles to navigate Charlene’s brash personality and her attempts to help him loosen up and reconnect with his children. Charlene, in turn, uses Peter's resources to clear her name and reunite with her son.

Bringing Down the House explores themes of cultural clashes, racial stereotypes, and the importance of family. The film received generally negative reviews from critics, who criticized its reliance on broad humor and stereotypical portrayals. However, it was a box office success.