“Night at the Museum: Kahmunrah Rises Again” ends with Nick Daley using his musical talent to reverse the villain’s actions, saving the day and embracing his new role.
This animated film, released on Disney+, introduces Nick Daley, the son of Larry Daley, as the new night guard. The story follows Nick’s journey as he faces the villainous Kahmunrah and learns to overcome his insecurities.
Nick Daley’s New Role
Nick Daley, an 18-year-old, reluctantly takes on the night guard job at the Museum of Natural History. Voiced by Joshua Bassett, Nick deals with personal issues like shyness and a failed jazz band audition. Despite his reluctance, he agrees to work for the summer. On his first night, he accidentally leaves the basement door unlocked, allowing Kahmunrah to escape. Kahmunrah, voiced by Joseph Kamal, steals the magical tablet that brings the museum exhibits to life. He then travels to the Art Museum, using a painting of ancient Egypt as a portal to unleash an army of jackals.
Nick, along with historical figures like Joan of Arc, Teddy Roosevelt, and Sacagawea, embarks on a quest to stop Kahmunrah before sunrise. The climax takes place in the Temple of the Sun, where Kahmunrah and his ally Seth, the little god of chaos, try to unleash their army. Nick uses his musical talent to reverse Kahmunrah’s actions, leading to a dramatic confrontation.
The Climax and Resolution
In the final act, Kahmunrah summons an army of Egyptian jackals, creating a dire situation. Nick’s character development shines as he bravely plays the notes on the magical tablet in reverse. This action causes the jackals, Kahmunrah, and Seth to be sucked back into the ancient mirror. This moment highlights Nick’s growth and the film’s themes of self-discovery and overcoming fears.
As the sun rises, Nick and his friends must return to the museum to avoid turning to dust. Nick remembers a poster of the museum given to him by Sacagawea. He uses this poster to create a portal, allowing everyone to return just in time. This resolution saves the characters and symbolizes Nick’s acceptance of his new role and newfound confidence.
Themes and Character Development
The film explores themes like courage, friendship, and self-acceptance. Nick’s journey from a hesitant teenager to a confident young man is central to the narrative. His initial reluctance mirrors the struggles many young adults face when stepping into new roles. The film effectively portrays how Nick learns to trust himself and his abilities, culminating in his successful confrontation with Kahmunrah.
The humor and charm of the film are reminiscent of its predecessors. However, some critics argue that it lacks the depth and originality of the original live-action films. The animation style has been described as “cheap and dated”, which detracts from the overall experience for some viewers. Despite these criticisms, the film remains a family-friendly adventure that appeals to younger audiences, providing a nostalgic connection for fans of the original series.
Audience Reception and Critique
“Night at the Museum: Kahmunrah Rises Again” received mixed reviews. Some praised its charm and lightheartedness, while others criticized it for being predictable and lacking the star power of the original films. The absence of key actors like Ben Stiller and Robin Williams was stated as a significant loss. This led to a perception that the film was a step back for the franchise.
The film’s runtime of approximately 80 minutes makes it a short commitment for viewers, appealing to families looking for a quick, entertaining watch. However, the predictability of the plot and the one-dimensional portrayal of the villain Kahmunrah were points of contention. Some suggested that the film felt more like a direct-to-streaming release rather than a theatrical feature.
Conclusion
“Night at the Museum: Kahmunrah Rises Again” continues the beloved franchise, introducing a new generation to the whimsical adventures of museum exhibits coming to life. The film’s ending, marked by Nick’s triumph over his insecurities and the defeat of Kahmunrah, encapsulates themes of courage and self-acceptance. While it may not reach the heights of its live-action predecessors, it offers a charming, albeit predictable, experience for families and younger audiences. The franchise’s future remains to be seen, but it continues to build upon the legacy of the original films.
