DVD Review: “Night at the Museum”

Superhit with Stiller leading an all-star cast. He’s a divorced, good-hearted dreamer who’s hired as night watchman at New York’s Museum of Natural History, taking the place of three veteran guards (Van Dyke, Rooney, and Cobbs). He soon discovers that an ancient curse brings all the exhibits to life after the sun sets. With the help of President Teddy Roosevelt (Williams), he may just figure out a way to control the chaos and become a hero in his son’s eyes. Lots of mayhem, special effects, and an uncredited appearance by Stiller’s frequent costar Wilson. And speaking of history, Cobbs (age 71), Van Dyke (81), and Rooney (86) provide lots of comic moments. (I checked – Rooney, who made his first film in 1927, may be the actor – living or dead – with the longest continuous film career at 80 years.) Meara, Stiller’s real-life mom, appears as one of many cameos. My review copy of the DVD contains only commentary; there’s also a 2-disc special edition with lots more extras. Good family film, fine for all but the very youngest.