Let's be clear right from the start: "Breaking the Bank" is not destined to go down in history as an iconic film about the greedy bankers that damn near sank the world economy a few years ago.
That said, this is a charming movie with a fine cast and smooth direction that is something of a cross between "Trading Places" and "Wall Street." It has some pointed things to say about the pirates who ran (and in many cases still do) gigantic financial institutions around the world; many of whom have no real idea what they're doing beyond the fact that they are getting fat bonuses annually. It's also an offbeat sort of romantic comedy that offers some interesting sideline commentary about the harm major banking institutions have done (and in many cases are still doing) to individuals and the environment.
Kelsey Grammer and Tamsin Greig co-star in the movie and both, I think, do their roles proud. Grammer manages to make his bumbling banker someone that the viewer can sympathize with and even feel some affection for despite his ineptness. He spews hoary old one-liners about marriage and parenting like they are new jokes and that is oddly in keeping with his character. Grieg, who is a very fine comedic actress, brings a sort of regal disdain to her role as wife, mother, and majority shareholder of the bank her family founded 200 years ago. John Michael Higgins, as a ruthless American banker out to take over the troubled bank, is smarmy enough to fit right in with the current Wall Street crowd.
The script is fairly predictable and doesn't really ask the actors to stretch their talents very much but that's not a terrible thing in a film that's part social commentary and part romantic comedy. You won't be on the edge of your seat nor will you weep copious tears at the scenes flitting across your screen. Neither, however, will you cringe. As I said, this is a charming movie that you can sit back, relax, and enjoy without having to concentrate very hard.

If it wasn't for the shots of London,and a couple of nice cars this never worked,Kelsey Grammer is at best a one tv hit wonder,i like Tonya Cassidy she can act,saw her before in a few things,i think about 2 jokes in the whole film were original,that's it! sorry this thing went nowhere,i think you have to have genuinely funny people to begin with,none here,very forgettable and at the end of the day it.looked more like an expensive advertisement to visit London.

I like Kelsey Grammar, but this movie was not worth renting.

Loved it!! Very enjoyable film.

Mildly funny, but not Grammer's best film although he maintains an English accent.

Must see ... Luv Kelsey Grammer

Kelsey grammer was marvelous in this film. His beautiful performance in this movie made me tear up.

Disappointed. Very corny. I didn't even finish watching it.