Night at the Museum" trilogy hits Netflix! Relive Ben Stiller's beloved, box office hit fantasy where museum exhibits come alive.
- January 18, 2026
AceShowbiz - Get ready for February, as the entire Night at the Museum trilogy is set to land on Netflix. This beloved fantasy franchise achieved remarkable box office success, even outperforming major superhero blockbusters of its time.
The journey began two decades ago with the original Night at the Museum (2006). Directed by Shawn Levy and starring Ben Stiller, the film quickly became a global phenomenon. It captivated audiences with the whimsical tale of Larry Daley, a night security guard at New York City's Museum of Natural History, where an ancient curse caused exhibits to spring to life after dark. A visual spectacle and heartwarming adventure, it introduced a new generation to museum magic.
Financially, Night at the Museum was a massive win. Produced on a reported budget of $110 million, it soared to nearly $575 million globally. Its impressive haul placed it ahead of other high-profile 2006 releases, notably outgrossing X-Men: The Last Stand (around $460 million) and Superman Returns (roughly $400 million worldwide). The triumph cemented Shawn Levy's reputation as a dependable director. The film remains his second-biggest hit, trailing only Deadpool & Wolverine, though his upcoming Star Wars: Starfighter is expected to surpass it.
Beyond financial success, Night at the Museum is fondly remembered for showcasing the talents of the late Robin Williams, who passed away just months before the third installment. His memorable portrayal of Theodore Roosevelt was a highlight. While critics offered mixed reviews—it holds a 42% on Rotten Tomatoes, with a consensus noting it as "either a spectacle-filled adventure or a shallow and vapid CG-fest"—audiences overwhelmingly embraced its charm, making it a firm family favorite.
The original's success paved the way for two sequels. Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian grossed over $400 million worldwide against a $150 million budget, earning a 43% on Rotten Tomatoes. The trilogy concluded with Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb, continuing Larry's adventures with his animated friends.
Collectively, the Night at the Museum franchise amassed over $1 billion worldwide, a testament to its enduring appeal and ability to capture family audiences' imagination. Now, with the entire trilogy available for streaming, both nostalgic fans and new viewers will have the chance to rediscover the magic when it arrives on Netflix this February.