The Spy Next Door

Former CIA operative Bob Ho moves into a quiet suburban life when he begins dating Gillian and helping her three kids, Farren, Ian, and Nora. Bob tries to fit in as a patient tutor and hands-on guardian, mixing old field tricks with goofy family antics to win their trust. The kids respond with skepticism, and Gillian worries about how a secret agent will fit into their everyday routine. When one of the children accidentally downloads a top secret formula, a ruthless Russian terrorist tied to Bob's past closes in on the family. Bob must improvise, protect his new loved ones, and keep his true identity hidden while the household chaos spins around him.

Released in 2010, The Spy Next Door is directed by Brian Levant and based on an original screenplay by Gregory Poirier, James Greer and Jonathan Bernstein. Jackie Chan anchors the comedy with Amber Valletta, Madeline Carroll and Will Shadley worldwide.

Its worldwide box office reached 66,166,000 against a 28,000,000 budget, marking it as a solid performer in the family action subgenre and helping Chan expand his appeal beyond his usual audiences in international markets and beyond worldwide appeal for viewers.

The film sits within Jackie Chan's later shift toward family friendly fare and practical stunts in a suburban setting. It didn't spark lasting catchphrases or a broad cultural footprint. Still, it offered younger viewers a brisk blend of humor, stunts and warmth on a Saturday night at home on screen.

Critical response was mixed, with reviewers praising Chan's physical humor while noting a familiar and predictable plot. The film explores family acceptance, balancing a dangerous past with a peaceful home life, and the odd couple dynamic of a spy in charge of a suburban clan that delivers pleasing family entertainment.