Dunston Checks In (1996)
Release Date:
1996
Movie Rating:
PG
Runtime:
1h 28m
Synopsis:
Dunston Checks In is a family comedy about a mischievous orangutan named Dunston who causes chaos in a luxury hotel. The story follows Robert Grant, the hotel manager, who is preparing for a prestigious inspection. His plans are thrown into disarray when Dunston, who is part of a jewel heist scheme led by the villainous Lord Rutledge, escapes and starts exploring the hotel. Robert's sons, Kyle and Brian, discover Dunston and try to help him evade capture. As Dunston swings through the hotel, he leaves a trail of hilarious mishaps, leading to a series of comedic encounters with the hotel staff and guests. The movie is filled with slapstick humor and light-hearted antics as the characters navigate the chaos caused by their unexpected guest.
"Dunston Checks In" is a family comedy released in 1996, rated PG, and primarily aimed at kids. The film combines elements of slapstick humor and adventure, featuring a mischievous orangutan named Dunston who causes chaos in a luxury hotel. Parents generally find it to be a light-hearted and entertaining movie for children, though some note that its humor may be a bit dated.
Why Kids Should Watch Dunston Checks In
The movie is praised for its fun and engaging storyline that keeps kids entertained.
- Promotes themes of friendship and loyalty.
- The character of Dunston provides comedic relief and charm.
- Visually appealing with its hotel setting and playful antics.
- Encourages problem-solving and teamwork among characters.
Why Kids Shouldn’t Watch Dunston Checks In
Some parents express concerns about the film's reliance on slapstick humor and mild peril.
- Scenes of mild chaos and mischief may be overwhelming for sensitive children.
- Some behaviors, like sneaking around, might be seen as problematic.
- Visual intensity in certain scenes could be confusing for younger viewers.
Verdict: Mixed Messages
Verdict: Mixed Messages
Parents are divided—some love it, others raise concerns about the film's slapstick humor and mild peril.
What Parents Should Know About Dunston Checks In
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does this movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | The film showcases teamwork and problem-solving as the characters work together to resolve the chaos caused by Dunston. |
| Does this movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | Some scenes where Dunston is in danger might require parental guidance to reassure children. |
| Does this movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | Characters face consequences for their actions, such as getting caught or having to clean up their messes. |
| Does this movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | The film highlights the importance of teamwork and helping others in need. |
| Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | The core message is about the value of friendship and helping others, delivered through the characters' interactions with Dunston. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
Overall, "Dunston Checks In" is seen as a fun and entertaining movie for kids, with its comedic elements and engaging storyline. While some parents appreciate the film's humor and positive messages, others feel that the slapstick comedy and mild peril may not be suitable for all children. Parental involvement can help address any confusing or intense moments, making it a more enjoyable experience. For those seeking similar films, "Home Alone" or "Beethoven" might be good alternatives.
Official Dunston Checks In Trailer
"Dunston Checks In" is a family comedy released in 1996, rated PG, and primarily aimed at kids. The film combines elements of slapstick humor and adventure, featuring a mischievous orangutan named Dunston who causes chaos in a luxury hotel. Parents generally find it to be a light-hearted and entertaining movie for children, though some note that its humor may be a bit dated.
Why Kids Should Watch Dunston Checks In
The movie is praised for its fun and engaging storyline that keeps kids entertained.
- Promotes themes of friendship and loyalty.
- The character of Dunston provides comedic relief and charm.
- Visually appealing with its hotel setting and playful antics.
- Encourages problem-solving and teamwork among characters.
Why Kids Shouldn’t Watch Dunston Checks In
Some parents express concerns about the film's reliance on slapstick humor and mild peril.
- Scenes of mild chaos and mischief may be overwhelming for sensitive children.
- Some behaviors, like sneaking around, might be seen as problematic.
- Visual intensity in certain scenes could be confusing for younger viewers.
Verdict: Mixed Messages
Verdict: Mixed Messages
Parents are divided—some love it, others raise concerns about the film's slapstick humor and mild peril.
What Parents Should Know About Dunston Checks In
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does this movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | The film showcases teamwork and problem-solving as the characters work together to resolve the chaos caused by Dunston. |
| Does this movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | Some scenes where Dunston is in danger might require parental guidance to reassure children. |
| Does this movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | Characters face consequences for their actions, such as getting caught or having to clean up their messes. |
| Does this movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | The film highlights the importance of teamwork and helping others in need. |
| Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | The core message is about the value of friendship and helping others, delivered through the characters' interactions with Dunston. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
Overall, "Dunston Checks In" is seen as a fun and entertaining movie for kids, with its comedic elements and engaging storyline. While some parents appreciate the film's humor and positive messages, others feel that the slapstick comedy and mild peril may not be suitable for all children. Parental involvement can help address any confusing or intense moments, making it a more enjoyable experience. For those seeking similar films, "Home Alone" or "Beethoven" might be good alternatives.
Official Dunston Checks In Trailer
The Core Values Learned From Dunston Checks In
Dunston Checks In's most common core values include Friendship, Teamwork, and Problem-solving. Throughout the movie, the bond between the characters and Dunston, the mischievous orangutan, highlights the importance of friendship. The kids, Kyle and Brian, form a unique connection with Dunston, showing how friendships can develop in unexpected ways. Teamwork is another key value as the characters work together to navigate the chaos caused by Dunston's antics.
The children and Dunston collaborate to outsmart the adults, demonstrating how working together can lead to creative solutions. Problem-solving is evident as the characters face various challenges, requiring them to think on their feet and come up with clever plans to keep Dunston safe. These core values are woven into the story, teaching kids the importance of building strong relationships, working together, and finding solutions to problems.
Other Core Values Explored: Family love | Courage | Responsibility. | Kindness | Helping others | Making good choices | Standing up for what's right | Trust | Resilience | Creativity | Having fun
The 5 Biggest Lessons Learned From Dunston Checks In
Building Friendships: In Dunston Checks In, kids learn the importance of building friendships through the bond that forms between Kyle, Brian, and Dunston. Despite Dunston being an orangutan, the boys see him as a friend and work together to help him, showing that friendships can form in unexpected ways and with unexpected friends.
Embracing Differences: The movie teaches children to embrace differences by showing how Kyle and Brian accept Dunston, an orangutan, as part of their team. They don't judge him based on his appearance or species, but instead focus on his kind nature and the fun they have together, highlighting the value of accepting others for who they are.
Finding Courage: Kids see examples of finding courage when Kyle and Brian decide to protect Dunston from those who want to harm him. Despite the risks, they stand up for what they believe is right, demonstrating that courage is about doing the right thing even when it's difficult.
Solving Problems Creatively: The movie showcases creative problem-solving as the boys come up with clever ways to keep Dunston safe and hidden from the hotel staff. Their imaginative solutions teach children that thinking outside the box can help overcome challenges.
Working as a Team: Throughout the movie, teamwork is a key lesson as Kyle, Brian, and Dunston work together to navigate the chaos in the hotel. Their collaboration shows kids that working as a team can lead to success and make difficult tasks more manageable.
Other Lessons Learned: Avoiding Judgments | Keeping an Open Mind | Practicing Empathy | Supporting Your Friends
Why Kids Love Dunston Checks In
Dunston Checks In is a whirlwind of fun and chaos that sweeps kids into a world where a mischievous orangutan turns a luxury hotel upside down. With slapstick comedy and silly jokes, Dunston's antics keep kids laughing as he swings through the hotel, causing hilarious mishaps and awkward situations. The movie is filled with outrageous stunts and near misses that add to the excitement, while the mischievous kids, Kyle and Brian, team up with Dunston to outsmart the adults. Kids will love the cartoon-style chaos and the thrill of breaking the rules as the trio navigates through chasing scenes and unexpected friendships.
The bond between the boys and Dunston is heartwarming, showcasing teamwork and the joy of making new friends. With its mix of humor, adventure, and lovable characters, Dunston Checks In is a delightful ride that keeps kids entertained and eager to see what happens next.