Synopsis

Down-on-his-luck inventor Larry Daley takes a job as a night guard at New York's Museum of Natural History, hoping to prove himself to his son. After sunset, an ancient Egyptian tablet brings the museum's exhibits to life, unleashing chaos among dinosaurs, historical figures, miniature civilizations, and wild animals. Larry must restore order before morning and save his new job.

Factoids & Trivia

• The film is based on Milan Trenc's 1993 children's book of the same name.

• Exterior shots used the real American Museum of Natural History in Manhattan, while much of the museum interior was recreated on sound stages in Burnaby, British Columbia.

• It was released in both standard theaters and an IMAX presentation using IMAX DMR technology.

• Owen Wilson's Jedediah was initially intended as a cameo. The character proved popular in test screenings, so the part was expanded.

• Wilson filmed his scenes separately from Ben Stiller, approximately three months after Stiller's principal work. The two performers were reportedly together on set for only one day.

• The film marked Rami Malek's feature-film debut.

• The reported production budget was approximately $110 million. The movie earned about $574 million worldwide and became one of 2006's biggest hits.

• Its commercial success led to two live-action sequels: Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian in 2009 and Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb in 2014.

• The American Museum of Natural History reportedly saw a substantial increase in visitors during the holiday season following the film's release.