🎯 Quick Overview
Trailer
- Director: Zach Helm
- Genre: Comedy, Family, Fantasy
- Release year: 2007
- Runtime (length): 1h 33min
- IMDb rating: 6.2/10 (48K votes)
- Rotten Tomatoes: 20%
😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained
An old dude who’s been alive for 243 years wants to die, leaving his magical toy store to Natalie Portman who can’t believe in herself, but an accountant dude and a kid with a hat collection help her believe so the toys can stay alive.
🍿 Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium: Detailed Plot Synopsis
Introduction to Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium
Molly Mahoney manages Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium, a magical toy store owned by the eccentric Mr. Edward Magorium. Molly, a former piano prodigy, feels unfulfilled and struggles with self-doubt. The store is a vibrant place where toys come to life, creating a sense of wonder for its visitors.

Magorium’s Imminent Departure
Mr. Magorium announces that he is 243 years old and plans to ‘depart,’ leaving the store to Molly. He hires Henry Weston, an accountant nicknamed ‘Mutant,’ to handle the store’s transfer. Molly is resistant to the idea of Magorium leaving and doubts her ability to run the magical store herself. She is gifted a Congreve Cube, a block of wood, by Mr. Magorium.

The Store Reacts
As Magorium’s departure nears, the store begins to lose its magic, reflecting Molly’s lack of belief. The vibrant colors fade, and the toys become lifeless. Eric Applebaum, a lonely young boy who frequents the store, becomes friends with Henry, forming an unlikely bond. Molly attempts to convince Mr. Magorium to stay, but his decision is resolute.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained
🎬 Cast & Characters
- Molly Mahoney (Natalie Portman): The insecure and unfulfilled manager of Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium, who must find her own spark to inherit the magical toy store.
- Mr. Edward Magorium (Dustin Hoffman): The eccentric and whimsical 243-year-old owner of the Wonder Emporium, who decides to leave his store to Molly.
- Henry Weston (Jason Bateman): The ‘mutant’ accountant hired to appraise the Emporium, who initially lacks imagination but learns to embrace wonder.
- Eric Applebaum (Zach Mills): A lonely, hat-collecting boy who frequents the Emporium and becomes friends with Molly and Henry.
- Bellini (Ted Ludzik): The bookbuilder in the Emporium and friend to Mr. Magorium.
💬 Memorable Quotes
- Mr. Edward Magorium: “Life is an occasion. Rise to it.” – Magorium encourages Molly to embrace life and her potential.
- Mr. Edward Magorium: “When King Lear dies in Act V, do you know what Shakespeare has written? He’s written ‘He dies’.” – Magorium uses this quote to explain his acceptance of death.
- Mr. Edward Magorium: “You see, the trouble with growing up is it takes a long time.” – Magorium shares his perspective on the complexities of adulthood with Molly.
- Mr. Edward Magorium: “Determination, joy, and bravery. That’s what we must face the next moment with.” – Magorium explains how to face each new day
💰Box Office
- Budget: $65,000,000
- Domestic Gross: $32,061,555
- Worldwide Gross: $69,474,661
💥 Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium Reviews
Personal Review
I remember seeing this movie when I was younger and being absolutely captivated by the magic of the toy store. Dustin Hoffman’s performance was so eccentric and endearing. I particularly loved the scenes where the store reacted to Mr. Magorium’s impending departure. The visual effects might seem a bit dated now, but it still sparks a sense of childlike wonder.
- Who would enjoy:
- “Families looking for a G-rated movie”
- “Fans of fantasy and magical stories”
- “People who enjoy whimsical and heartwarming films”
- “Viewers who appreciate themes of self-discovery and believing in oneself”
- Content warnings ⚠:
- “Deals with the topic of death, which may be sensitive for very young children.”
- “Some viewers may find the film’s whimsical nature and emphasis on imagination overly sentimental.”
- “Contains mild thematic elements related to self-doubt and insecurity.”
Professional Reviews
- Slash Film: “Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium is a visually whimsical adventure, that captures a sense of wonder and nostalgia. While the plot feels underdeveloped and unfocused, the performances and set design create an engaging experience. The film’s message about believing in yourself and embracing imagination will resonate with audiences who appreciate heartfelt stories.
- Rotten Tomatoes: “Despite its colorful visuals and talented cast, Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium fails to deliver a compelling or coherent story. The film relies too heavily on special effects and quirky characters, neglecting character development and plot structure. The movie’s message about believing in magic feels unearned and sentimental.
- PluggedinOnline.com: “With whimsy, childlike wisdom, coaxing nursery-rhyme-like precepts from its characters and their relationships, it’s archetypes, really: The accountant who can’t see the magic around him; the shunned, shy little boy; and the uncertain store manager who feels she was made to do great(er) things. When Mahoney first asks the Mutant whether he sees a sparkle in her”something reflective of something bigger trying to get out,” he’s befuddled.
Audience Reactions
Viewers were moved by the simplicity of the movie’s message and the reminder to believe in yourself.: The film has nostalgic charm and delightful performances, creating a heartwarming experience.
Many enjoyed the unique visuals and the imaginative depiction of the toy store.: Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium provides an escape from reality and offers a pleasant family movie night.
Overall Consensus: Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium is a visually imaginative family film that embraces childlike wonder but has a weak plot.
Awards
🛠️ Behind the Scenes
- “Natalie Portman learned to play the piano specifically for her role as Molly Mahoney.”
- “The film features a cameo voice appearance by Steve Whitmire as Kermit the Frog.”
- “Zach Helm, the writer and director, had previously written ‘Stranger Than Fiction,’ known for its unique narrative style.”
🖥️ How to Watch Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium?
Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium is available for streaming on various platforms, including purchase or rental options on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Vudu. Check your local listings for availability.

🎥 Similar Movies
If you enjoyed Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium, you might like these similar films:
- Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971): Features an eccentric, magical shop owner who imparts life lessons, sharing whimsy and wonder.
- Big (1988): Explores the theme of embracing childlike wonder and rediscovering the joy of imagination in adulthood.
- Toys (1992): A visually imaginative film with a whimsical toymaker and a playful world of toys.
- Hook (1991): An adult rediscovers the magic of his childhood imagination.
- Paddington (2014): A modern family film that uses whimsical charm and heart to appeal to similar audiences.
🛒 Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium Related Products
- Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium Blu-ray: Experience the magic of Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium in high definition. Relive the enchanting story and stunning visuals, with enhanced picture and sound quality.
- Magic Toy Store Building Blocks Set: Recreate Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium with this building blocks set. Includes mini-figures of Mr. Magorium, Molly Mahoney, and Eric Applebaum. Perfect for display or imaginative play.
- I Believe in Magic T-Shirt: Show off your love for the movie with this ‘I Believe in Magic’ t-shirt. Features a design inspired by Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium.
- Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium Movie Poster: Adorn your space with the official movie poster. This vibrant print brings the whimsical charm of the Emporium to any room.
🎧 Soundtrack
Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:
You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.
🤨 FAQ
Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium is a fantasy film about a magical toy store and the young woman who inherits it from its eccentric owner. It explores themes of self-belief, imagination, and the acceptance of change.
Yes, it is generally considered a family-friendly movie. It has a G rating, meaning it contains no violence, sex, or profanity, making it appropriate for all ages. However, some younger children might find the theme of death a bit sensitive.
The movie stars Dustin Hoffman as Mr. Edward Magorium, Natalie Portman as Molly Mahoney, and Jason Bateman as Henry Weston.
🔥 Bonus Content
Night Time – Mr Magorium’s Wonder Emporium
Ever wondered how a movie can inspire someone? Check out this amazing piano cover of a piece from Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium. It’s incredible how she learned it by ear!
2007 Mr MAGORIUM’S WONDER EMPORIUM set of 5 WENDY’S MOVIE COLLECTIBLES VIDEO REVIEW
Remember when movies had tie-ins with fast food restaurants? This video reviews the Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium Wendy’s collectibles! Seeing these definitely brings back some memories.
Top 10 Biggest Movie Flops with LEGO Sets!
Did you know Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium is considered a box office disappointment? This video talks about movie flops that had LEGO sets, so if you are into that sort of thing you should definitely watch it.
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