Movie Fan Zone

Imagine being a nightshift guard of a museum. Not exactly the best job, right? What if the museum exhibits come to life during sundown? Pretty interesting stuff huh?

That is the premise of Ben Stiller’s latest flick “Night At The Museum”. The effects-laden family film is an enjoyable romp for Stiller and audiences as well, that is, as long as you suspend your disbelief. It is a thrilling comedy ride similar to a horror ride: completely unnecessary yet fun.

Stiller plays the protagonist Larry Daley with the same amount of energy he uses every time he is onscreen. Let’s face it, turn off the volume on this film and you wouldn’t know if this was Greg Focker or any other character he has played without a mustache. That being said, he does his best of portraying the role without being completely smothered by his visual effects pals. His reactions are still hilarious even though you have seen it before countless times.

Which brings us to his fellow “Brat Pack” member Owen Wilson. As one of the miniature characters that comes to life, his Cowboy Jedidiah provides some of the laugh-out bits of the film delivered with his natural charisma. That just reinforces the idea that Wilson’s humor works better when he is in a supporting role rather than when he is the lead star.

Robin Williams is still a hoot given the seriousness of the role. When he is serious, he makes you contemplate; when he does wild stuff, you can’t control your laughter. However, you can’t say the same for Ricky Gervais (”The Office”, UK) and Carla Gugino (”Sin City”) whose presence in the movie are somewhat wasted. Dick van Dyke and Mickey Rooney are still a joy to watch in spite of the unfunny lines they were attached to.

Overall, the film provides adequate entertainment without making you think too much. your kids will have a greater time on the theater and, who knows, maybe get them interested on going to a museum.

Night At The Museum, Ben Stiller, Robin Williams, Owen Wilson, Ricky Gervais, Carla Gugino, Dick Van Dyke, Mickey Rooney, Larry Daley, Cowboy Jedidiah, Greg Focker, The Office, Sin City, Brat Pack

[image from: mtv.com]