3 Day Test

3 Day Test is a thought-provoking and entertaining family film directed by Corbin Bernsen (who is also part of the cast) and features Megyn Price and George Newbern as lead characters. Released in 2012, it's an inventive ride that combines elements of humor, family dynamics, and sincerity. It is a film that humorously presents some of life's simple truths while exploring the intricacy of family bonds in a fast-paced world.

Megyn Price, known for her role in CBS's "Rules of Engagement", plays Jackie Taylor, a modern woman trying to keep her family engaged in the ever-changing dynamics of the digital era. While her husband, Martin, is portrayed by George Newbern who is known for his role in “Father of the Bride”. Martin is a typical family man, visible yet unnoticed, and struggling with the trials and tribulations of the corporate world.

The movie is centralized around the family's father, Martin, who out of desperation to reconnect with his family, devises an eccentric plan. Concerned about his family's detachment due to the overuse of technology, Martin decides to lock his family inside the house for three days without any modern-day conveniences; no television, no internet, no cell phones, and most dauntingly, no power. In essence, he forces them to experience life without the constant interference of the digital sphere. The aim is a simple family bonding experiment, but it spirals into an eventful, comical, and chaotic journey, full of unexpected turns.

The twist lies in Martin's corporate work style taking over as he treats this three-day 'family lockdown' as one of his work projects. He takes to drafting a Master Test Plan and cajoles, rather coerces, his wife Jackie, and their three kids, into adopting the primitive life practices from reading, cooking to surviving without electronic assistance.

In the absence of digital distractions, Martin hopes to rebuild and strengthen the diminishing interaction and communication within his family. The storyline explores themes of parental concern, lost connections and growing up, all wrapped up with humor and wit. Every situation, no matter how grim, is served a tad lighter with the movie's knack for a laugh, even in the puzzling absurdity of the circumstances.

Meanwhile, outside of their 3-day self-imposed confinement, the neighborhood and police are confused by the happenings at the Taylor's household. This results in hilarious misunderstandings, and the family's disconnect from the outer world turns into zany hypothesis with comically exaggerated imaginations. Martin's plan of effortless and peaceful family bonding retreat is gradually turning into a local news sensation.

Characters like Uncle Sam, played by Corbin Bernsen himself, and Martin's boss evoke comic relief through their cluelessness about Martin’s ambitious plan. It gives a humorous outlook on otherwise tense moments, making it an enjoyable watch.

In essence, the movie touches upon the key aspects of everyday life that we often overlook due to our busy schedules and dependability on digital gadgets. However, the film is not just about pointing fingers at our dependency on technology; it draws attention to human's need for intrinsic connection, inherent laughter, and the pursuit of happiness in the ordinary.

The film's narrative is straightforward but nicely executed, balanced with humor and sentimentality. The interactions between Martin and his family as they reluctantly adapt to his enforced 'primitive' setting are endearing and genuine. Despite the unconventional situation they find themselves in, the characters come out as real: they are flawed yet lovable, hilarious yet thoughtful.

The film receives an extra charm with its solid performances. George Newbern as Martin, a father earnestly trying to win over his family to his impromptu plan, and Megyn Price as Jackie, the skeptical yet supportive wife and mother, deliver an appealing dynamic. Their together along with the gifted young cast embodying their kids bring to life a regular American family that viewers can relate to and root for.

In conclusion, 3 Day Test is an engaging film that makes you laugh, think and appreciate the little moments of life. It is an entertaining and heartwarming rumination on family, love, technology and connection in today's fast-paced life. Scoring high on humor and insights, it is a perfect family movie for a cozy Sunday afternoon.