Families across the UK have been handed a perfect pre-Christmas treat, as one of the most iconic family adventure films of the century is now available to stream completely free of charge.
A Magical Distraction for the Festive Weekend
With the final weekend before Christmas often filled with last-minute shopping, present wrapping, and food prep, parents are frequently searching for easy ways to keep children entertained. This year, BBC iPlayer provides the ideal solution. The platform will be streaming the beloved fantasy comedy Night at the Museum, with the film also set to air on BBC One at 2:30pm on Saturday, 20th December.
While subscription services like Netflix and Disney+ offer numerous holiday titles, the BBC's free offering is a welcome budget-friendly option for viewers. The film is available to stream on demand on iPlayer throughout the entire month of December.
What Makes This Film a 'Masterpiece'?
The 2006 film stars Ben Stiller as Larry Daley, a down-on-his-luck inventor and divorced father who takes a job as a night security guard at New York's Museum of Natural History. He soon discovers the museum's exhibits magically come to life after dark, seeing it as a chance to bond with his sceptical 10-year-old son, Nick, played by Jake Cherry.
The film boasts an all-star cast, including the late, great Robin Williams in one of his most cherished family roles as President Theodore Roosevelt. UK audiences will also spot Steve Coogan and Ricky Gervais, alongside Owen Wilson and the legendary Dick Van Dyke.
Rave Reviews From Audiences
The film has long been celebrated by families and critics alike. A 10/10 review on IMDb from the time of its release praised it as "really fantastic," noting it had the whole cinema laughing. The reviewer highlighted it as a great film for kids but also one that older viewers can appreciate.
Another fan labelled it "A+ Family Entertainment," calling it a "lively romp through a museum as well as through history" with a light plot, charming characters, and playful events suitable for all ages.
On Letterboxd, a five-star review went even further, humorously asking if famed directors like Hitchcock or Kubrick ever made anything close to this "masterpiece of 2006." The review celebrated the film's magical and funny journey, brilliant performances—including what they called a "career best from Owen Wilson"—and its iconic soundtrack.
For anyone in need of a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will captivate both children and parents this festive season, Night at the Museum on BBC iPlayer stands out as a top-tier, cost-free choice.
