Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian

Welcome to another episode of The "D" List

Today's review is Night at the Museum: Battle of The Smithsonian. Directed by Shawn Levy. Written by Robert Ben Garant and Thomas Lennon.

This is the same team that brought us the original Night at the Museum in 2006. Obviously with the massive success of the 1st film. A sequel was inevitable. After hearing that they were making another one I quickly got nervous. I couldn't imagine how they could have made another film like this while keeping the original idea fresh. I'm here to report that not only did they freshen the story. I found this film much more entertaining and funnier than the original.

Our story takes places a few years after the 1st film. Larry played by Ben Stiller has become a successful businessman. He goes to visit the museum only to find out that most of the exhibits are being sent to the smithsonian to be put in deep storage. They are going to be replaced by virtual reality duplicates.

The rest of the film involves the tablet that brings the exhibits to life and the older brother of the egyptian pharaoh from the 1st film. The older brother Khamunrah is played by Hank Azaria. Better known as the voice of Apu on the Simpsons, among other characters he voices. He wants the tablet so he can do evil things. What they are is for you to find out.

The bottom line is that the star of the film is without a doubt Azaria. He was hysterical as Khamunrah. His over the top delivery combined with a subtle lisp make for comedic genius. This man is a tremendously funny actor that deserves much more meaty comedy roles. Azaria's timing is so razor sharp that he doesn't give you a chance to breath. That's the mark of a great comedian. The jokes come rapid fire and don't stop until your crying.

The best example is during a scene between him and Stiller that plays like Abbot and Costello's "Who's on First" routine that is absolutely terrific. If you don't find that scene funny then I question your ability to laugh. I'm cracking up now writing about it.

The other standout character is Amy Adams as Amelia Earhart. Her 30's dialogue is so witty and crackerjack (see even I'm talking like her now) that even though it's dated you can understand what she's saying and find the humor in it. She plays Stiller's sidekick to perfection. She's a wonderful actress with a TON of range. She gets deep into her roles and takes them seriously.

In a much shorter role is Bill Hader as General Custer. He plays Custer with such pride and stupidity that you can't help but laugh at him. It's kind of messed up though because the script gives the impression that Custer was a bleeding imbecile referring to the battle of little big horn. Hopefully you history majors out there remember that????? They poke fun at him but it works here. My only objection was that I wanted more of him but there are so many characters in this film that you have to try and balance them out.

The film overall is lightning fast. The story moves quickly and the action set pieces are done very well. The special effects are just that. Special. The jokes are just as fast and funny.

Overall Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian is a well made sequel that picks up the momentum created by it's predecessor. The kiddies should have a blast with it. I did and I'm the biggest kid I know.

On the 5 star scale. Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian gets 4 stars and a "Worth Every Penny" recommendation.

My next review will be Terminator Salvation. I decided to let the holiday crowd flood the cinema before I partake in this much anticipated however in my opinion unnecessary sequel to the popular franchise.

Until Next Episode....I'll Save You A Seat!

"D"