Movie:
Dunston Checks In, originally released theatrically in 1996, was directed by Ken Kwapis. The film stars Jason Alexander (Robert Grant), Faye Dunaway (Mrs. Dubrow), Eric Lloyd (Kyle Grant), Rupert Everett (Lord Rutledge), and Paul Reubens (La Farge).

As concierge of the Majestic, an elegant five-star hotel, Robert Grant learns an undercover reviewer from the Le Monde is considering the Majestic for a sixth star. To further complicate matters, The Majestic is also hosting the Crystal Ball, which is touted as the social event of the season, that weekend. Only with everything running to perfection can the week go without flaw, but when the jewel-thieving duo of Lord Rutledge and Dunston, his orangutan, check in, can Robert prevent disaster and thereby keep his job?

Dunston Checks In is certainly a decent family film with a few laughs, but it does have quite a few flaws. The film is silly in quite a few places and the story is barely there, existing merely to set up the comedy. The comedic moments are pretty good, though some fall a bit flat. The acting ranges from over-the-top (Everett's Lord Rutledge and Reuben's La Farge are hilarious) to barely passable (Lloyd's Kyle Grant), though Alexander really holds the film together. Still, those looking for family entertainment can certainly do a lot worse and anyone viewing a film about an orangutan can't expect anything too serious.

Picture:
Dunston Checks In is presented in both 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen and, on the opposite side of the DVD, 1.33:1 full frame. The print is solid throughout, with only some minor nicks and specks. Colors are well saturated and bright, flesh tones are accurate, and blacks are well defined.

Sound:
Dunston Checks In is presented in Dolby Digital 5.1 in English and Dolby 2.0 Surround in French and Spanish. Surrounds are fairly limited throughout the film for the exception of the score, though do spark to life during a few of the more action-oriented scenes. Dialogue is crisp and clean throughout, with no distortion that I detected. Optional subtitles are also available in English and Spanish.

Extras:
Extras include a four-minute featurette with interviews by the principals and a funny, 007 inspired, trailer.

Summary:
Dunston Checks In is a fairly funny movie that makes a decent rental for fans of the actors involved or those looking for a comedy the whole family can enjoy. Fox hasn't really provided much in the way of extras, though with the low MSRP, fans still might want to consider picking it up. Rent it.