Jul 11, 2009 07:03 PM
1679 Views
(Updated Aug 21, 2009 02:02 PM)
Sequels, they say aren't as exciting as their originals. Well...it is a matter of perspective though. :-) Well you generally do expect a lot from sequels, since they bring back vivid memories of their originals, your particular take on the original and... well your life itself at the time the movie released!!
There are so many things like these that happen in the 'back ground' ;-) or our sub-conscious memory when we prepare ourselves for a sequel...So what ever the take is, and who ever you are, no one can refuse the fact that they expect a lot from a continuation of a memorable movie, which in most cases is a brilliant idea by itself.
But I must confess. This movie is not worth all this... maybe I got affected by the same phenomenon!!NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM-BATTLE OF THE SMITHSONIAN is a simple drama that takes you back to the times of three stooges and charlie chaplin
Then why have I recommended it? Simple. the makers have tried very hard to keep this a strict family movie and never tread into lines like sleaze, sexual inuendoes, politics, religion and violence. And though the comedies don't send you rolling on the floor, they do make you smile here and there.
The movie takes the audience through the "new-improved" life of Larry Dally(Ben Stiller) who has found his most-wanted position in life as a successful business man. The new life of Larry is said NOT to be as exciting as his previous job as a Night guard.
The exhibits are moved from their present places to a restricted Federal Archives much to the sadness of the exhibits Jedediah(owen wilson), Theodore Roosevelt(Robin Williams) among others.Larry is left helpless though he tries. An animated-SOS-call from Jedediah draws the concern of Larry and he is pulled into the ride.
The Bad guy Kamunrah(Hank Azaria who stared as the cameraman in 'GODZILLA') is very clearly shown as no one to be feared right from the start though he asserts his 'management' skills by recruiting an elite group of generals(Russian czar Ivan, French emperor Napolean and American gangster Al Capone) to put into action his evil plans.
The movie is interesting in parts where the creative team take over. A variety of characters from various periods are shown throughout the movie. This-a very interesting aspect soon makes you realise is the only good aspect of the movie. The proceedings dont interest you very much since there is actually nothing very new in it.
Hank Azaria and Amy Adams keep you interested in the movie. Hank really impresses with his role as Kamunrah, an evil pharaoh who has 'COME BACK TA LIFE!!!' His sense of humour reflects in almost all the scenes where he appears. Goofy, slapstick, sarcastic, stand up... I don't know
where I could classify him, he has single-handedly stolen the show. His accent and dialogue delivery is really impressive.
The guest appearances by Abraham Lincoln, oscar and Darth Vader were enjoyable :-)
Amy Adams as Amilia is very cute and forms another interesting watch on screen though she overdoes it sometimes.
But poor Ben..he is easily forgotten in all this action though he is tugging along all through the movie. :-(
But the real part that the movie misses is that there is no richness anywhere. Since everything happens in a closed environment you get that drama feel. even for comedy it would be better if it was shown a little more grand.
So it ends up looking like a stage play rather than a Ben Stiller led comedy with a lot of historical characters and the coolest bad guy in recent times.
The story will really appeal to children and families. This is a very well aimed Family movie but it may not interest viewers who want a nice laugh riot. there is a huge difference between the two.
So yes for Dating couples, Formal outings, school trips
and no for comedy-buffs, sequel-seekers, ardent movie goers, Ben stiller fans(duh??!! :-P)
My verdict
Concept - 9/10
Casting - 9/10
Screenplay -7/10
Direction-7/10
Technical aspects -8/10
Movie- 7/10 WATCHABLE ... nothing less nothing more
