It’s been over two years since night watchman Larry Daley (Stiller) worked at the Museum of Natural History and discovered the amazing artifacts and exhibits came alive … literally! Now, he’s a successful CEO of his own company, Daley’s Devices. Having shamefully neglected these old friends, he belatedly discovers that they are no longer needed (now there’s modern technology to replace them) and are being shipped off to the archives at the Smithsonian. The friends Larry guarded are miffed by his lack of visits but no one more so than rough-riding cowboy Jedediah ( Wilson), who is as small as he is courageous and his former enemy-turned-partner-in-crime Octavius (Coogan). Just as the sun rises, everyone returns to their appointed place while Teddy Roosevelt (Williams) shares that this is to be the last night for his fellow comrades to come alive as he, a handful of others and the tablet which makes this possible will be remaining behind.

During a visit with his son Nick (Cherry), Larry receives a call from Jed saying there are some minor complications that comes with their new dusty storage place. What ensues is a mad dash to save each other from the conceited and evil Ivan the Terrible (Guest) who is determined to rule the world. With help from the bubbly, optimistic and opinionated Amelia Earhart (Adams) and the supposed cowardly, General Custer (Hader), this may become their greatest stand yet.

From the original release of the predecessor, I loved the story, hilarity, and fun for its apparent aspiration to entertain: with a smart plot and busy poster art, it succeeded in entertaining its audience. Everything about it sparkled a family enjoyment that is a rarity in our modern world. This follow-up to the 2006 hit is no less amusing and may even be a tad more likable. The cast is phenomenal! In addition to the primary cast, there are guest appearances by notable musicians, including the Jonas Brothers. Seeing Amy Adams among the credits was a highlight of the sequel. Since her days as a wide-eyed Disney Princess, she has become one of the more talented actresses in the business today. My mom made the remark that often the downfall of sequels is the fact that it’s no longer “fresh” because at the least it was done previously by its predecessor. While I see where many may feel that way and may be disappointed or tired of this phenomenon as a result, many manage to stand on their own two feet. I’ll admit that this does rely on the former title’s basis but is in a league of its own. It stands alone, so you needn't have seen the original to enjoy it, but makes "inside jokes” for the fans.

The special effects are wonderful and little bits of seemingly insignificant dialogue and comedy is in perfect timing, bringing everything together in a fun assortment of moments. Both the stars and director knew the sort of comedy that brings laugh-out-loud humor that doesn’t inwardly cause one to flinch if thought about for too long. Where this film achieved brilliance is a fantastical screenplay that still manages to bring in some realism. The ramblings that seem to last forever are pure comic gold and where some may find them annoying to the point you want to fast-forward, they struck me as nothing less than a brand of comedy that is nearly forgotten. There isn't much content either. Some comical violence makes its mark in wrecking havoc at the Smithsonian; a plane shatters glass, a face-off between the good and bad guys lead to a that’s anything but epic. Naturally, there are a few things that may frighten youngsters: a huge octopus-like creature comes alive, and gangsters wield machine guns. Near the climax, scary looking creatures appear and parade around with huge eagle-like masks. Slaps across the face are freely given out between mischievous monkey Dexter and Larry. Language is rare if there is any, apart from Amelia’s cute if not unusual exclamations.

If you’re looking for something to put under the tree this season, pick up Night at the Museum 2; it’s cute, clean and completely irresistible. From the Smithsonian to World War II to ancient Egypt, things remain lively before wrapping up on a sweet, recognizably clichéd end that will leave you with a smile long after the credits. So, sit back, relax and turn out the lights for what promises to be a grand adventure where history truly does come alive ...