night at the museum - secret of the tomb
Night at the Museum - Secret of the Tomb: (Comedy/Action): 69 out of 100: The third film in the series, this is a fun popcorn flick that won't stay long in the memory. It is pure escapism that neither challenges nor reaches any great heights but is nevertheless entertaining.
Ben Stiller along with a host of other actors return in the roles they portrayed in the other films in the series. This time around it is discovered that a magical tablet that brings everything to life must be taken to the Natural Museum in London to be resurrected. If it is not rejuvenated in time, all the exhibits in the Museum of Natural History in New York will no longer come to life. It begins with a back story set in 1927 of how this precious tablet found in Egypt possesses magical powers. The action then skips to present day New York and finally on to London where most of the film is shot.
There are some amusing scenes but occasionally they go on for a bit too long to pursue the joke. The highlight of the amusing scenes would have to be the ones featuring a cameo by Hugh Jackman where he plays himself. There is also a great scene involving legendary entertainer Dick Van Dyke which demonstrates that he still has it as a dancer.
This is one of Robin Williams' last roles and he is serviceable rather than brilliant as Theodore Roosevelt. Ben Stiller is reliable as usual as Larry Daley, the night security guard of the museum. Ricky Gervais is more annoying than funny as the head of the museum.
There are some scenic shots of London's main tourist attractions while the visual effects are adequate rather than spectacular. If you enjoy a rollicking musical score then you will like Alan Silvestri's compositions.
If you enjoyed the other films in the series then you should like this third instalment. Just like the other films, this one is not particularly memorable but it provides enough fun and entertainment for both adults and children.
Starring Ben Stiller, Robin Williams, Owen Wilson, Steve Coogan and Ricky Gervais
(97 minutes)
Parental advice: Low level violence
Additional scenes during or after credits: Yes, characters from the movie dance at the start of the credits and continue to dance for at least one minute
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=KMKk7Dn__-Y (Movie trailer)
(Reviewed on Tuesday 30th December, 2014)
