The Family Plan 2023 movie review and film summary by Roger Ebert

Mark Wahlberg stars in "The Family Plan," a new action-comedy that blends espionage with suburban family life, but falls flat.

Mark Wahlberg has proven himself to be a versatile actor with a talent for both action and comedy. It's no surprise that he would take on a film that combines the world of espionage with suburban family life. The concept of an average family man with hidden skills as an assassin is a popular one, appealing to audiences who wonder if they could also protect their families in a similar situation. However, "The Family Plan" fails to execute this concept well.

Wahlberg's character, Dan Morgan, is a typical guy who works at a car dealership and enjoys his family's routines. However, his life takes a dramatic turn when it is revealed that he used to be a hired assassin. As he tries to start a new life with his family, they embark on a road trip to Vegas, leading to a series of comedic and action-packed situations.

The film attempts to inject humor through impossible and unrealistic scenarios, such as a fight in a grocery store with a baby strapped to Dan's chest. However, these situations come across as forced and lack the relatability that makes this subgenre successful. The characters also fall flat, relying on quirky baby antics and sing-alongs to "Ice, Ice Baby" instead of developing meaningful humor or character depth.

In the end, "The Family Plan" fails to deliver on the potential of its premise, missing the mark on both the action and comedy fronts. Despite Wahlberg's talent, the film struggles to find its footing, resulting in a lackluster and unengaging experience for the audience.