Some contemporary reviews were more generous, however. Desson Howe and Rita Kempley of "The Washington Post" referred to the film by saying "it ain't half bad", and a "plucky, prank-filled family farce" respectively. Kevin Thomas of the "Los Angeles Times" stated that "Dunston Checks In" "is a delightful and funny family film of exceptional high style", "as light as a soufflé and just as delicious", and "plays like a tribute to the resourceful, unpretentious studio productions of the past". According to an article published in the "Chicago Tribune", "The cast is talented, the hide-and-seek action is silly (not killing), and the bond between a sweet little boy and the adorable ape is touching."