BBC iPlayer is set to stream a cherished family film this weekend, perfect for festive viewing.

With Christmas preparations in full swing, parents seeking an afternoon’s distraction for the children during the final weekend before Christmas Day will be spoilt for choice.

While Netflix and Disney+ boast a plethora of holiday classics, those on the hunt for budget-friendly options can still enjoy a vast selection of TV shows and films at no cost.

For families with youngsters needing a simple diversion, BBC iPlayer is the go-to platform as Night at the Museum will be available on Saturday afternoon (20th December).

Viewers can either tune into BBC One at 2:30pm to watch the first instalment of the popular fantasy trilogy live, or they can stream it free of charge throughout December, reports the Mirror.

Hollywood comedian Ben Stiller stars in this enchanting comedy as Larry Daley, a hopeful inventor and divorced father who lands a job as a night security guard at New York’s Museum of Natural History.

Upon discovering that the museum’s exhibits spring to life after dark, he sees a golden chance to impress his 10 year old son, Nick (portrayed by Jake Cherry).

The film also showcases one of the late Robin Williams’ most treasured family movie performances as President Theodore Roosevelt, alongside British talents Steve Coogan and Ricky Gervais, plus Owen Wilson and the adored Dick Van Dyke, ensuring Night at the Museum captivates both youngsters and grown-ups throughout the weekend.

A perfect 10/10 IMDb review from its initial release declared: “This was a really fantastic film. It had myself and everyone in the cinema laughing the entire time.

“The film was definitely one of the funniest films I’ve seen over the last year. Many will disagree on me with that, but I believe it was. The film is definitely worth a watch. If you have kids, then it would be a great film to take them along to. Even so, it is a film that the older viewers can appreciate as well.”

Another viewer dubbed it “A+ Family Entertainment” and penned: “This one is a lively romp through a museum as well as through history.

“So the plot is light (that means everyone will understand it), the characters are charming (your kids will ask you about them), the events are playful (no one gets hurt … well, not really) and the whole family will love it. I know I did. 10+/10.”

The acclaim extended to Letterboxd, where a five-star critique proclaimed: “Hitchcock this, Kubrick that, but did any of them make anything that even came close to the masterpiece of 2006 that is Night at the Museum?? I thought not.

“This is one of my favourite films of all time, whatever happens at least I know I’ve got this film to fall back on because it gives me so much happiness. It’s the perfect magical, funny, historical journey and I will love it forever.

“Such brilliant performances, including the legendary Dick Van Dyke, and literally a career best from Owen Wilson, and the soundtrack is so beautiful it’s just super iconic for me I could listen to it for hours.”

For those still hunting for a family-friendly festive treat this Christmas, Night at the Museum surely ranks amongst the finest choices available.

Night at the Museum is available to stream on BBC iPlayer and airs at 2:30pm on BBC One on Saturday, 20th December.