Based on author Milan Trenc’s children’s story entitled, “The Night at the Museum”, Ben Stiller plays Larry Daley a divorced dad with a ten year old son who seemingly is down on his luck in many respects. Having had several attempts at redeeming his self esteem and impressing his boy (Jake Cherry- who’d rather be a bond trader like his mom’s new mate), Daley’s calling comes in the form of a night security watchman job at the Museum of Natural History. The “What if” scenario for this film would be-“what if all the museum exhibits magically came to life at night and havoc ensues?”

Seeing Daley as fresh meat, he is taught the ropes by three retirement bound elderly watchmen headed by none other than Dick Van Dyke (Cecil), and his comrades played by Mickey Rooney (Gus) and Bill Cobbs (Reginald). Both Reginald and Cecil quickly patronize Daley to get him into the part of the respectable and honorable position of night watchman. Whereas, Gus (who has an apparent Napoleon complex), in every moment with Daley, wants to knock his lights out. The legendary trio, add a delightful comedic element with a touch of savoir faire as the trio attempt the carry out their unhanded plot to steal an ancient
Egyptian tablet from Pharoah Ahkmenrah which gives the exhibits life.

Daley quickly learns his trade in a trial by fire initiation when the exhibits at sundown magically move about. Between warring factions of Western folk and Roman Centurions (each led respectively by outlaw Jedediah (Owen Wilson) and Roman Octavius (Steve Coogan)), a bone fetching T-Rex, bumbling Neanderthal men with a penchant for consuming massive quantities of fire extinguisher foam and Huns on a rampage, Daley is beside himself as to how to maintain control. When the directions on how to maintain order is ripped to shreds by a mischievous capuchin monkey named, Dexter, Daley seeks vengeance on the simian.

Rescued and given museum wisdom- “some men are born into greatness while others have it thrust upon them”, by Teddy Roosevelt (Robin Williams), Roosevelt instructs Daley in lessons of how to become great and other leadership qualities. Daley pulls up his bootstraps, does his homework (via the internet) and turns the tables around eventually in his favor. In addition, he teaches Teddy a few things about how to approach a woman when he eyes Teddy enamored with Shoshone guide, Sacagawea but doesn’t have the courage to say even hello.

Panic builds as the tablet legend speaks of turning those infused with life from the museum into dust if found outside its walls when daybreak arrives. Daley makes haste (with the help of now risen Pharoah Ahkmenrah) to try to round up all the exhibits which wandered out for night air.

COOL FACTORS:

• This FX laden film will sure to please with a lot of CGI which actually carries the story.

• Van Dyke, Cobbs and Rooney show that they are still shining stars of the industry with their flawless comedic talents and timing.

• Gets you inspired to go to a Natural History Museum and research about world history. History is cool, kids.

• Dexter, the capuchin monkey.

All in all, this is great family fun and feel good filmmaking.

Rating: A

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