National Treasure (2004)

Director: Jon Turteltaub

Starring: Nicolas Cage, Sean Bean, Diane Kruger, Justin Bartha

A historian races to find the legendary Templar Treasure before a team of mercenaries.

Ooooh, I love treasure hunt movies! I prefer them not set in present time, but ‘National Treasure’ did not disappoint. There’s greed, back stabbing, double crossing, mystery – everything you expect from a treasure hunt!

Nicolas Cage stars as Benjamin Gates, whose family has been treasure hunters for some time – as well as being made fun of in the process. Benjamin’s friend, Riley (Justin Bartha) serves as the film’s comic relief, and he was funny and likable, and thankfully never slapstick. Diane Kruger is Abigail Chase, who reluctantly becomes part of the treasure hunt. Sean Bean is the antagonist, Ian.

There were some credibility issues, but heck, this film was so exciting, they can be overlooked. Clues to the treasure points to an invisible map on the back of the Declaration of Independence, so they come up with a plan to steal (erm, make that borrow) one of the most guarded documents in America. However, things doesn’t go as planned and we find our heroes running for their lives on a few occasions.

I loved the adventure element, as well as mystery and interesting reveals. The climax features an excellent Production Design. This movie offers everything I want to be entertained. This was exciting and I loved it!

‘National Treasure’ was nominated for Best Action/Adventure/Thriller Film. At the box office, it earned $347.5 million on a $100 million budget.

Would I watch it again? Yes.