1 A wonderful thrill ride that blows the mind away
This film was great, the plot was very interesting and that made the film captivating and thrilling in many different ways, it almost felt like an Indiana Jones film, however it was far more in depth which I liked. Cage was excellent for the role, and the history behind the film was really informative, I don't know if such a legend is true, about the treasure and all but the film was great. I loved it.
2 Very Clever, Funny flick...A Fun ride...
This movie just had a sense of cool to it. It was adventerous, funny, and had some pretty good actors in it.
I just like it. I thought it was a fun ride, with clever thinking behind it. Very enjoyable, with a nice little soundtrack that kept me entertained throughout the whole ordeal...
3 GREAT FUN!
I saw this movie in the theater and loved it. Nick Cage is great and there is a ton of good old fashoned adveture wrapped up in a good historical mystery! I have already ordered my DVD. If you liked "Raiders of the lost Ark", "The Da Vinci Code", or any of Clive Cusslers Dirk Pitt books then this is the movie for you! And dont listen to the reviewers who try and put this movie down because it is not factual or meet their high artistic standards. This movie is Kick "A" fun!
Oh yeah, if you like this kind of thriller/adventure you have to check out "A Tourist in the Yucatan" more kick "A' fun! the underground hit of 2005!
4 An exciting thrill ride from the beginning ...
This movie is a great adventure movie exploring the idea of a treasure hidden by the Mason Society. They have left clues to it's whereabouts, and finally one man is on the right path to finding it, but his former funding partner is out to steal the treasure for himself. So it's a race between the two to gather the pieces of the puzzle and locate the treasure.
This movie is a great family movie to be enjoyed by young kids to the great grandparent. I've noticed some people can't believe the reference to important documents being a treasure map, but it's a greatly entertaining movie! So, get over it ...
I enjoyed the movie so much in theaters that I bought the DVD and even a UMD copy for my PSP (Portable PlayStation)
5 You are Kidding so Ok
This is a film that is really a kiddie movie. Theories of conspiracy should at least be plausible and based on some truth at every stage of twist. This is not even good comic book and Cage should find a real role. He does not make a convincing Indiana Jones character. That said it would be entertaining to
11-13 year olds who can keep up with the improbable and ridiculous story.
6 My son would give this 5 stars!
I was really torn between giving this movie three or four stars, and opted for four, because the movie really works and holds the viewers' attention throughout.
Yes, there are flaws. My husband hates this movie. But, really, it's completely entertaining from start to finish and makes real history come alive in a fictional story. What other movie can we think of that can cause a young child to want to print out a copy of the Declaration of Independence, read more about Ben Franklin and even Thomas Edison? And, for those of us who have children already showing an interest in history, this movie is a gift to them.
The acting, direction, casting, sets, etc., are all well-executed. All in all, if you haven't seen this movie yet, if you liked Indiana Jones, The Da Vinci code, Rule of Four, or any other adventure stories, you really will enjoy this movie.
7 A real corn-popper--but worth seeing.
Lets face it, this movie was written to quickly capitolize on the "Da Vinci Code" phenominon. This movie is not nearly as good as "Da Vinci Code" was, but if you go for that sort of mystery/treasure hunt/conspiricy theory type of thing, you'll enjoy watching this movie.
The main character learns a family legend from his grandfather--there is an unbelievably hugh treasure which was hidden by the founding fathers! They left us clues on various documents and in various famous buildings. An adventure-filled tromp through historic sites ensues.
Not exactly Oscar material, but good clean fun for the whole family.
8 NATIONAL PROFIT
Intriguing premise of America's forefathers leaving secret clues to a hidden treasure is given the kiddie comic book treatment in this fun, and tedious, adventure saga. A little more intellect wouldn't have gone amiss, and discerning viewers may mutter to themselves long into the second hour, "Just find the damn treasure already!". Nicholas Cage has a 'Romantic treasure hunter? No problem.' conviction and Diane Kruger brings excitement and appeal to her role as a rigid historian turned Santa Claus believer, but the whole lot of treasure hunters and the bad guys chasing them begin to resemble the cartoon cast from the "Scooby-Doo" cartoons, complete with Scooby-like chase van. Not a bad thing if you're twelve years old, but like a crummy free toy in your sweetened and forteified cereal box if you're not.
9 3 Words to describe
If I could use any three words to describe the movie National Treasure, I'd use my favorite three words to describe bad movies.
Everyone told me that I'd like this as long as I ignored the plot holes. But they were two big to ignore. I thought maybe the treasure was down in one of them.
I dig two inches into ice and find a boat (lucky me). But the inside of the boat has not been filled with water and then frozen. Hm....
Okay, that's a minor detail, as is this. Nicholas Cage carrying the Declaration of Independence around in a bullet-proof glass case. I could be wrong, but wouldn't it be a little bit heavy?
Okay, okay, so he's told this woman that someone is going to steal the Declaration. Then he sees her at the party. He offers a very cryptic toast. I think she'd probably put 2 and 2 together and say, "Security, arrest this man."
The bad guys always know where to go and what they need despite not having ANY of the clues they'd need. Why could they do this? They had "unlimited resources." In other words, the writer needed them to be able to do whatever they want, but couldn't be bothered with trying to figure out how that would be possible.
Okay, my favorite one...they have to be in the bell tower at just the right time to see the shadow pointing to the right spot on the wall. But the shadow would only be pointing there twice a year! What if they went on the wrong day! If they went in the winter, the shadow would be to the left of the right place, and if they went in the summer, it would be pointing too far to the right! (Raiders of the Lost Ark has a similar problem, but it is fairly easily and mostly satisfyingly solved by having the sun shine through a little hole.)
So, if I could choose three words to describe this movie...
WORST
MOVIE
EVER
10 What ripoff
This movie is such a ripoff of the Da Vinci Code its frightening. Almost everything about it (except that it takes place in America) is pretty much the same. Also, Nick Cage is overemotional the whole movie. If I could give this movie zero stars, I would.
11 Big, dumb and amiable
"National Treasure" is a big, dumb, amiable dog of a movie. If you like big, dumb, amiable dogs, you'll love it. If you don't, forget it. The plot is outrageously implausible and the acting is cartoonish, but, like that dumb dog, it only aims to please. It's no "Raiders of the Lost Ark" or "Pirates of the Caribbean", but, as mindless entertainment goes, it has its moments.
Ben Gates [Nicholas Cage] is a descendant of a family which learned a secret 200 years ago. According to the story, our founding fathers, which included several Free Masons, stashed away a treasure worth billions and billions of today's dollars. Ben follows an elaborate set of clues left by said founding fathers. When he discovers a truly important one, his benefactor turns on him because he wants the treasure for himself. Realizing his old partner will use any means necessary, Ben decides to fight fire with fire. This includes stealing the Declaration of Independence from the National Archives in Washington, DC because there may be a map for locating the treasure hidden on the back of the sacred document.
Car chases and shoot outs follow as Ben and his nemesis look for the treasure.
If you forget logic and reason, "National Treasure" can be quite entertaining. Frankly, if anything bothered me about the movie, it was watching once vaunted actors Cage and Jon Voight, who plays his Dad, reduced once again to collecting a fat paycheck.
12 the form and package convinces you of the contents
I spend a lot of time arguing online and thinking about how literature presents truth and why we only believe historically and scientifically accurate accounts to be true, anything else is labelled and discarded intellectually as fiction. So please forgive me if i see this theme dominating the movie as well, you know the saying: to a man whose only tool is a hammer, all problems are nails.
The movie is good, compelling, engrossing, absorbing, a good way to spend 2 hours out of the afternoon heat.
It is this link between the artist and his audience, what is believable and persuadable to us that i find useful in the move after leaving the theatre. Is there this enormous wealth hidden under the graveyard just off Wall Street? of course not, but how the author persuades us to believe that it just might be true is marvelous. He does so by realistically giving us enough facts that we find truthful that we jump over the connections to the next set and joyfully embrace the artist's vision, despite it's blatant foolishness. There is enough truth that we suspend disbelief for the important steps, for the awkward things that we would never embrace if presented by themselves. We find the package believable because we recognize the wrapping, in our eagerness to unwrap an adventure and a stimulating chase, we jump to normally unwarranted conclusions.
For example, i watched "Sky Captain" this week. It's mixture of historical and mythical put the whole movie into the comic book genre, fun but unpersuasive. Now are the Masons the descendents of the Knights Templar? Possibly, there has been a rash of books proposing just that for 20 years, but they all are panned and dismissed by the critics. Perhaps the same critics that find this a believable and fun movie, despite the fact that it makes much more unbelievable claims then does _Holy Blood, Holy Grail_. But it does so by leading into the weaknesses of our cultural epistemology not by confronting it directly. This is the secret of such movie successes and the reason for the failure of the literature genre that HB,HG represents. People want to believe the bizzare, the Xfiles garbage, they only want it packaged in historical and scientific wrapping. For it is the wrapping, not the contents that interest most people. They really aren't interested in the science or underlying reasons, they only want the illusion to cover up their itching ears and wandering eyes. We desire to be deceived and seduced, we just don't want to let other people know it and cover it with the legitimatizer of the day-science.
We love racing and outthinking the competition- see the "Amazing Race". We love gadgets and trinkets, toys and things that glitter. But we want to justify these desires by claiming that they are both useful (pragmatic and utilitarian) and good (moral and uplifting). By tying these things together the authors etc of NT both involve us and excuse our weaknesses, justifying our entracement while excusing the fact that we justify the unbelievable by making it look like history. This is the magic of the historical novel, unlike the comic book or the fantasy like Shriek, we can be persuaded that it just might have happened. That it is believable because the package conforms to our societal notions of truthfulness as outlined by science and historical research.
It is the Xfiles phenomena, we unrighteously suspend disbelief because the authors have given us a package wrapped in our favorite and most persuasive stories.
It is Kipling's just so stories updated to the greed of the 21st century with the amazing race thrown in since we love a winner.
and the winner gets not just the pretty girl, the manorhouse on the green but a really hot red sports car.
13 It'll make you appreciate the Da Vinci Code all the more
National Treasure is so out there that even if one suspends disbelief, it remains solidly unbelievable. I am not referring to the subject matter here, as there exists plausability in such events as the caping of the Declaration of Independence, and an unknown treasure of great importance kept hidden by secret societies through the ages. What is totally unbelievable is the film's silly, predictable script. The irony here is that such a story should open one's mind to the fact that these events could actually happen (ALA Da Vinci Code), yet National Treasure makes it all so ludicrous and absurd that all I found myself saying was "yeah right" after many scenes. I gave the movie 3 stars because alas, National Treasure still manages to entertain, primarily because it does not take itself seriously. There is good comic relief from Justin Bartha and John Voight. National Treasure is silly, clean and kinda fun to watch. C+
14 A Wild Ride for the Entire Family
National Treasure is just that for families that are looking for a fun movie that everyone in the family can enjoy - a treasure. It is a wild ride in the Indiana Jones vein, with some James Bond thrown in for good measure!
On top of all that it also presents history in an entertaining light. Rather than just names and dates, it shows that history is filled with STORIES - exciting stories, intriguing stories, and very entertaining stories. It's the perfect movie to show your kids before they go into High School. It's also a flat-out entertaining ride of a movie that will appeal to adults as well.
For the generations that grew up on James Bond and Indiana Jones National Treasure is a welcomed movie. It is not a kids movie - it's just a movie that kids over 7 or 8 can watch. While you may have to suspend disbelief at some of the details in the movie, that isn't very hard to do (no more so than in any of the aforementioned James Bond or Indiana Jones movies). The story is told at such a pace, and with such flair that most moviegoers (or DVD watchers) won't have either the time or the inclination to try to tear the movie apart detail by detail - that job is left to the critics whose snobbery often gets in the way of just enjoying a fun ride of a movie. For the rest of us National Treasure is pure entertainment.
Nicolas Cage is great as Ben Gates, and the supporting cast is very good as well (Jon Voight, Harvey Keitel, Sean Bean - he's always good, and even Christopher Plummer in a bit part as Ben's grandfather).
This is a movie that proves that it is still possible to make a movie that appeals to adults while still being acceptable to parents as a movie for their kids to watch. The concept of a "family" movie (outside of the computer animated genre) has been largely discounted in recent years, but maybe with the success of National Treasure we will see more of them.
15 Thank you very much.
We looked at this with a humbled smile. All we can say to those who have put this movie together is a very humbled thank you. Why? As this world seems to be getting to an end this movie reassures one who has been looking for a "clue" that all is being taken care of. May "The All Seeing Eye" be with all of you always.
16 4 1/2 Stars for an excellent breathtaking thrillride!
Where can you find a film that is rated PG with no foul language, no nudity and sensuality, etc. and it's still a fast-paced action thriller? These movies are hard to find and "National Treasure" delivers all the way.
It's interesting and I almost gave the film 5 stars, but I'm no Nicolas Cage fan and that prevented me from awarding it 5 stars, but it's well worth 4 1/2 stars.
Although some scenarios are a little unrealistic to say the least, it doesn't matter in this film as the subject matter is just so fascinating, ... a lost/hidden treasure and the symbolism surrounding it. On the big screen this motion picture was really exceptional and it's a breathtaking thrillride, but I haven't decided yet if this flick will make it into my DVD collection, but it probably will.
17 Great clean fun
What a fun family movie. The story is very adventurous and is more like a colonial detective Indiana Jones type of movie. Fantastic and good fun without pointless profanity. How refreshing!
18 Kick "A" fun! (dont listen to the critics!)
I saw this movie in the theater and loved it. Nick Cage is great and there is a ton of good old fashoned adveture wrapped up in a good historical mystery! I have already ordered my DVD. If you liked "Raiders of the lost Ark", "The Da Vinci Code", or any of Clive Cusslers Dirk Pitt books then this is the movie for you! And dont listen to the reviewers who try and put this movie down because it is not factual or meet their high artistic standards. This movie is Kick "A" fun!
Oh yeah, if you like this kind of thriller/adventure you have to check out "A Tourist in the Yucatan" more kick "A' fun! the underground hit of 2005!
19 Why did the critics pan this movie?
I was surprised that this movie got such negative reviews. It was very entertaining, suspenseful, and fun. It was farfetched, but I was able to get into the story and really enjoy it. Great acting, great story, great entertainment.
20 NO profanity (none whatsover!) Three Cheers for Hollywood!
This movie is the rare theatrical PG movie in which there is absolutely NO profanity of any sort, and NO sex. Great acting, great script, great directing, great photography: Great movie! Sharp adventure, gentle romance: this Disney film is the kind of movie that Walt himself would have been proud of.
21 Mr. Jones Goes To Washington
This could easily be thought of as an Indiana Jones adventure in Washington D.C. It is a treasure hunt full of action, adventure, humor, and unbelievability. And it is clean enough for the kids. Put reality aside and go with it, you will have an exciting ride.
A HINT ABOUT THE MENU: Finding all of the extras on the disc is a treasure hunt unto itself. In the MAIN menu, highlight the book on the top right. A hidden page will appear with numbers on the left & options on the right. On the left select these numbers in this order: 4, 0, 5. Then on the right select "Submit Master Code" and hit the enter button. You will now get a complete listing of all of the extras.
Another way to get to the hidden extras not on the regular extras menu is to follow the above directions, but select the numbers in this order: 3, 9, 7. Then on the right select "Submit Secret Code". This time only the hidden extras will show up.
There are some flaws with the story.
1) During the treasure hunt, one of the clues is to be found in a shadow created at a certain time of day. But the message does not say what time of year this would happen. Since the sun is in a different position through out the year, the shadow would be created in different areas. With all of the attention to details, I am surprised this was overlooked.
2) The moral: Stealing is O.K. if you feel it is for a good purpose. And you can get away with it if there is someone else trying to steal your stolen goods.
It is also a little unbelievable that the first clue is deciphered to say the map is on the back of the Declaration Of Independence. The way they got to this conclusion is far fetched and members of the gang should have doubted this. I guess that would have only slowed down the story and the director wanted to get it going.
Oh, don't tell the kids this, but they will learn some history lessons from this movie. Actual historical facts are interwoven into the story! This is the "School House Rock" of action movies!
22 This Movie Was Da Bomb!
I went in a little nervous, all the critics hated this movie. I left excited! This film is so exciting, fun, and engaging, I could have sat another hour!
The story has TONS of twists, turns and loopholes, but always holds its own beneath all the special effects, "which are great!"
An excellent film, highly recomended.
23 Did Bigfoot Steal It?
You pretty much know what you are getting when you see producer Jerry Bruckheimer's name stamped on a film. Not necessarily so all the time with the great Nicolas Cage. But you put the two of them together in a big action/adventure and you definitley know what you'll be seeing. Having previously paired up for the high octane action flicks like "The Rock" and "Con Air", Cage and Bruckheimer deliver films that are nothing but big buckets of greasy popcorn with a heap of fun on top. That's what this movie delivers. Good, old fashioned fun in the "Indiana Jones" variety. Directed by Jon Turteltaub, the movie is a rollicking fun ride through our nation's history, and traveling in, around, and sometimes beneath, historic places of the land. Nic Cage stars as Ben Gates, Benjaim Franklin Gates, a treasure hunter. Thru flashbacks in the beginning with his grandfather(Christopher Plummer)when he was younger, Ben has been on the search of elusive treasure. The Treasure of the Knights of Templar, kept hidden from freemasons then and now. He comes to believe can be found with the help of an invisible map that he believes is on the back of the declaration of independence. The famed document of which he has to steal(before others do). With the help of his sidekick Riley(Justin Bertha), and Abigail Chase(Diane Kruger), Ben and Co. are off on an incredible journey to find the treasure. But all is not well when he and his cohorts have another gang hot on their heels to find the treasure themselves. While the movie may not aiming for incredible, long lasting credibility, it does achieve a very important things for movies of this nature that make it a success. It's fun. It's entertaining. It's funny. It has a fun cast. It looks good and just delivers all the popcorn thrills one would come to expect. Naysayers might complain of how "out there" the plot is, but does it matter?. It's a movie. Not real life. It set out to be what it is, and it succeeded. How could anyone not like a fun adventure filled with snow covered ships, daring robberies, hidden tunnels, crypts, skeletons, and tresure?. Cage has always been one of the most dynamic and watchable performers, and he comes to the role of Ben Gates with the right kind of appeal and makes it better than it is. Jon Voight also co-stars as his father, Patrick Gates, an ex-treasure hunter who believes he wasted his life looking for nothing. Sean Bean has made a career out of playing criminals of some kind, and here's another one to add to the list. But he does do it well. Kruger is an appealing and beautiful heroine along for the ride, but it feels like her character is just for another damsel in distress. Bartha is the main comic relief. He has the best lines and the parts that will have the audience laughing the most. And then there is Harvey Keitel, as an FBI agent on the trail of Gates and crew. There seems to be a lot of love for this movie by other reviews here, and it's nice to see that. Nice to see that movies that are incredibly fun, entertaining, and just down right enjoyable, like this one, are seen for what they are. A good time. Not like some critics who cut it down for it's "ridiculous plot" and all the mumbo jumbo that comes with it. Again, a lot of them don't see what it's really here for. Filled with a decent enough script that holds the film and clues together good enough, eye catching direction from Turteltaub, and cool fun, National Treasure is a clean and fun thrill ride for everyone.
24 Cage hits the charts!
I have seen the movie twice in the movies it is one of my favorite films of NICOLAS CAGE! Most of all i liked the music-score by Trevor Rabin.
25 Good family flick
The history buff in me wanted to gouge out my eyes after the first 20 minutes. The mindless dork in me grabbed more popcorn. Check your criticisms at the door, grab your 11 year old son, and have fun. I am glad they still make old fashioned movies like National Treasure.
26 Great film
This is a top notch adventure film. The cast is great, and it's full of action and humor. You might even learn something from watching it. The DVD quality is top notch. If you're looking for a good film that will please the entire family, look no more. National Treasure has a little of everyone's favorite style.
27 A Squeaky Clean Caper Film with Disney Stamped On It!
Like a trip to Disneyland, this family geared caper is cute and filled with gratuitous fluff like the opening Artic scenes where the story really takes off, but given the premise that this is pretty sterilized stuff the end result is a surprisingly entertaining little movie. Like getting an E ride for the price of an A ticket.
The simple plot of a centuries old secret about a treasure map whose clues are written in invisible ink on the back of the Declaration of Independence has been in the family of Ben Gates (Nicholas Cage) from the beginning, according to the pre-title sequence where young Ben's father (Christopher Plummer) initiates Ben's life long passion to discover what his ancestors couldn't. Ben's partner Riley (Justin Bartha - remember him in 'Gigli'?) and eventually the beautiful Abigal Chase (Diane Kruger) slowly decode the secret with Ben, all the while being chased by former partners Ian (Sean Bean) et al and the FBI (Harvey Keitel). The caper is well written and entertainingly fast paced and if the ending is far too predictable, just take a deep breath and remember this is a Disney epic.
Cage, Bartha, and Kruger make a terrific team and watching them make the best of this silly caper is proof of their talents. If you are searching for an edge-of-the-seat heist/terror film, look elsewhere, but if a solid evening's entertainment is your goal, settle back and enjoy. Grady Harp, May 05
28 Awesome Flick
This is a brilliant film and it kept me thinking and entertained. It WOWed me! This is a MUST HAVE!
29 A Roller Coaster Without Steep Hills...
Treasure hunting is an intriguing notion often connected with suspense and adventure when viewed on film. National Treasure is such a film, which intends to trigger suspense while providing a fantastic adventure through the mysterious freemasons, history, and the founding fathers. The audience which sits down to enjoy this venture undertaken by Ben Gates (Nicholas Cage) and his partner Riley Poole (Justin Bartha) will unfortunately have placed it's foot in the wrong adventure, as this concoction will neither be suspenseful nor adventurous. Instead, the viewer will go through a repetitive journey of clue solving where the story's hero seems to be a know-it-all, whereas previous generations seem to have been struggling through their lifetime with what he finds to be simple.
When Ben was a young teen, he heard from his grandfather (Christopher Plummer) about a fantastic adventure regarding a hidden treasure uncovered by some knights during the crusades. This treasure was deemed too vast and rich for any king, or person, which caused people to hide it in the first place. When the Templar Knights found it under the Temple of Solomon, they swore to hide and protect the treasure. The knights brought the treasure to Europe, and later to the New World. This brief introduction to the treasure serves the purpose of explaining Ben's obsession with the treasure, but it is also the best part of the film that regrettably dwindles hereafter.
For the rest of the film the audience gets to follow the camera while it moves with Ben who travels between different historical sites on the quest for another clue of the treasures whereabouts. This turns into a rather tiresome event, as the story seems to cover it up with grand larceny and mean thugs that are not so mean. Additional awkwardness generates from the lack of suspense, as everything, even the difficult parts of the film, seem to move smoothly. The film also provides a sense of comfort and ease, which does not belong in the atmosphere with lethal crooks and the FBI breathing down their necks.
The director Jon Turteltaub's creation is a cheesy adventure film that fails to compare to many other treasure hunt films such as It's a Mad Mad Mad Mad World (1963), Goonies (1985), and Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003). Some level of cheesiness is to be expected, but National Treasure does not try to venture in that direction intentionally and instead leaves the viewers feeling somewhat cheated in the end. This is mostly because the protagonist in the film knows it all, and delivers methodically an answer to all questions. The roller coaster that the film offers is without the steep hills that parents safely can send their children through while most children will enjoy this film before they learn that film can be so much more.
30 Enjoyable for what it is
Benjamin Franklin Gates is the latest in a long line of treasure hunters. The Gates family has been searching for a treasure hidden by the founders of the United States since the last founder told one of them the first clue many years ago. There's just one difference. Ben has solved the first riddle and that leads him to believe the next clue is on the back of the Declaration of Independence. When his financiers decided to steal the document, Ben realizes he's on his own to find the treasure and keep America's historical document safe. But in a race again time, will Ben and his friends win?
Ok, so maybe this movie isn't great cinema or the best movie ever made. It really doesn't matter, and you know why? Because the movie is fun. I had a smile on my face from start to finish and was often on the edge of my seat waiting to see what happened next. Yes, I'm annoyed that we never found out how Ben tracked down the first clue. And there's at least one plot hole that will jump off the screen at you. But in the end, I didn't care. The story engaged me, and the characters were fun. I found their banter very entertaining. Plus setting the story around so much American history certainly didn't hurt this US history buff.
The DVD could have been better done. The widescreen and surround sound are wonderful. It's the extras where I have my problem. There is a treasure hunt motif to them, with at least two different levels. The booklet does provide clues to get to the second layer, but I keep hearing rumors of a final level, and that's very annoying. What is easily found is nice. There are two deleted scenes and an alternate ending, each with an optional commentary. We get a brief behind the filming documentary and an animated early version of the opening story to give the director an idea how it was supposed to look. Layer two brings an encryption game and two brief documentaries on real life treasure hunters (interesting) and the Knights Templar (mostly useless.) Noticeably missing, at least in the obvious parts of the disc, are such standard features as an audio commentary and the original trailers.
This movie is exactly what it sets out to be, a fun escape. If looked at that way, you'll be entertained.
31 Disney Treats the DVD like a kids product
I wish I could give this DVD package a 5, but can't because of that Disney has done. Many of the best supplimental features on the disk are hidden and the viewer has to solve puzzels, try for easter eggs and other nonsense to get to them. This feature makes a viewer want to throw the disk against the wall or break it in pieces. When I want to see the special features that I have paid for when I buy the disk, I don't want to spend time playing games. This is OK for kids on the childrens releases, but not for an adult film. If you love puzzles, crosswords, translating hyrogliphics and such things, this disk might appeal to you, but it is simply frustrating for many people.
This said, the film itself is a lot of fun and very enjoyable.
32 "Lookee what he can do!"
Over the top action sequences, dumb story, lame dialogue, and bad acting make this, a national piece of S#it.
33 OLD FASHIONED AND FUN ADVENTURE
As noted in many reviews, NATIONAL TREASURE is one of those old-fashioned, non-violent, profanity-free adventure movies they don't make anymore. And for that, NATIONAL TREASURE is a treasure find for families to enjoy together without worrying about excess violence, profanity or nudity. As a movie, it's a ridiculously implausible plot, but it's also very engaging, well-written and involving. The clues are presented in logical fashion and we find ourselves wondering exactly where the clues will lead us. Nicolas Cage offers a sincere and heroic leading man persona and Diane Kruger is lovely and smart as the cryptographer who finds herself inadvertently along for the ride. Justin Bartha as Riley, the sidekick is lots of fun to watch; he brings a joyous innocence and naivete to his role and obviously a lot of respect for his mentor. Sean Bean is callously villainous as the rival for the Declaration, and Jon Voight is appropriately crusty as Cage's disbelieving father. Add Christopher Plummer in a small cameo as Cage's grandfather and you have a cast up to the challenge.
NATIONAL TREASURE is as fun, Indiana Jones like movie, and I wouldn't mind if they made a sequel. It's nice to watch an entertaining movie that doesn't rely on the usual ingredients of most of today's action films. Enjoy!
34 Surprisingly Well-Made and Entertaining!
Nicolas Cage has run the gamut of the action film genre. He's played the reluctant action hero in The Rock, a cartoonish icon in Con Air and the amoral bad guy in Face/Off. With National Treasure he essays a new variation-the non-violent action hero. Usually, you don't see anything of the non-violent kind in a Jerry Bruckheimer action movie and that's one of several pleasant surprises in this movie.
At times, National Treasure wants to be a contemporary update of Indiana Jones. Like that character, Benjamin Gates isn't in it for the money but for a genuine love of history and the thrill of the solving the centuries old mystery. This is a surprisingly entertaining mix of action and humour. It doesn't rely on too many cliches of the genre and tries not to insult one's intelligence.
In keeping with the cracking codes and knowing something about history from the movie, each extra contains a clue at the end of it that when put together will unlock another level of supplemental materials and then another.
"National Treasure on Location" briefly touches upon the film's origins. It started with a premise: what if you stole the Declaration of Independence? It is quite an achievement that the filmmakers got to shoot on location at these famous historical landmarks. Only a Bruckheimer production would have the clout (and money) to achieve this.
There are two deleted scenes with optional commentary by director Jon Turteltaub that provide a little more back-story to Gates' ancestor. The filmmaker mentions that the original cut was four hours long and yet we are only given two scenes, one of which is just an extension of an existing one.
Also included is an "Opening Scene Animatic" with optional commentary by Turteltaub that shows a rough, computer animated storyboard of the opening historical prologue.
There is also an "Alternate Ending" with optional commentary by Turteltaub that originally tried to set-up a sequel but this wasn't their intention and so, thankfully, it was scrapped.
"Treasure Hunters Revealed" takes a look at the real people who look for treasure. The ones who are interviewed for this extra claim that they are in it for a love of history, but many of them look pretty well off so it becomes obvious that we are only touching the surface here.
"Riley Poole's Decode This!" is a game that teaches a little about hieroglyphics and cryptography and then has you decode a bunch of names that get progressively harder (although, not that much).
"The Templar Knights" featurette briefly examines these historical figures and their link to the Free Masons.
Finally, there is a bonus "Trivia Track" which allows you to watch the movie with a subtitle track that dispenses mostly useless info that you could easily get from surfing the Internet Movie Database.
35 history or fantacy?
National Treasure in my opinion was a suspense thrilling gem that could be viewed by all in the family. It showed that a movie can be interesting with out a lot of violence and explanatives that Hollywood has been doing of late. The acting was superb by all the talent in this film. Although the plot line is absurd, it had a lot of historical Americana through it. The facts that are known of the Masons and founding fathers of this country were mixed together with little fantasy made this file believable along with the acting. 4 *** s
36 Great movie, if you can suspend your disbelief
Yes this movie is far fetched, but so is most of what Hollywood puts out there. It makes a great adventure story if you can ignore some of the plot holes and outrageous antics of the characters. I found the treasure hunt to be very entertaining. Watching Gates (played by Cage) try to stay one step ahead of both the bad guys and the FBI added some suspense to the movie.
As for the DVD, they gave it quite a few extra features, considering that they packed it all one one disk. Like the movie, the disk is a treasure hunt. As you watch the special features, you are given clues which allow you to unlock even more features. It of course is not the first DVD to do this, but I thought it did mesh quite well with the theme of the movie. One thing I that was lacking was a complete commentary track. They had a directors commentary for the deleted scenes and alternate ending (which I that was by far inferior to the real ending) but they don't have a commentary track for the entire movie. Perhaps that would have forced them to bump the other special features to a second disk. Perhaps if the movie does as well on DVD as it did in the theaters, there will be a "special edition" released at some point with a complete commentary, and a few more features on a second disk.
37 an unexpected treasure
I had no clue (pardon the expression)that I would love this movie as much as I did. Lots of action, a fun performance from Nicholas Cage (an actor I don't normally like)and an epic hunt for the treasure of the ages. The best part for me was the musical score--it begins with a grand sweep, and as the movie goes along, becomes more intense and thoughtful. Kind of the opposite of what I'm used to. A different approach and one that really sold the movie for me.
38 A Lot of Fun!
I go to the movies rarely any longer, and this is not the type of film that would have been a "must see" for me. The DVD was received as a gift, and I watched it to simply be polite...and am glad I did!
As many others have pointed out, the entire film is improbable...a search for a treasure that has been hidden since colonial times, with impossibly vague clues scattered about.
But, enter Nicholas Cage...whose character in this film is engaging, witty, and the smartest individual to grace a media screen since Adam West and Burt Ward solved all of The Riddler's impossibly vague clues with relative ease. Sure, he gets stumped from time to time in the quest for such an elusive treasure...but never for long...and you absolutely ***know*** that he will somehow triumph before the movie reaches its conclusion.
Clocking in at a little over two hours, "National Treasure" seemed much shorter...because the pace of the film rarely lets up. From the opening scenes, anyone willing to suspend belief and simply enjoy the ride is treated to one action-filled, highly improbable moment after the next. Split-second decisions and impeccable timing rescue Cage's character from certain death/failure on so many occasions that they would be impossible to list here...but it's done so well, and with so much style and humor, that I found it difficult to not be entertained.
Better still, it's a movie that parents can enjoy with their kids. Language throughout is commendably clean, and unlike many so-called "family" films, there isn't a single gag involving bodily functions...Dear God, does this mean the world is coming to an end? : )
Check reality at the doorstep, pop in the DVD, and settle back for a good time. If this movie inspires a sequel, I'll be at the theater to see it.
39 let it sink
Some like to say that if the critics hate it, then it must be good. Well, I often say that if the masses love it, then it must be bad. The truth is probably somewhere in between.
National Treasure starts off with great potential: Masonic underpinnings to the country, secret codes that reveal mysteries, and a treasure to be found, oh boy! The problems kick in with the hokey dialogue (Harvey Keitel proves that award winners can really be lame in a film and often take anything for money). He actually says something like, "This is not a good day for ummmm."
Nick Cage can be really funny in action films like Con Air where his over-the-top performance is welcome. But in a film like this, where the viewer wants to take the story seriously, Cage comes across as a joke. Often he seems on the verge of laughter, or joy, perhaps at the obscene amount of money he makes just for showing up and being appealing. The geeky sidekick is reminiscent of the geek in Twister and the geeks ad infinitum that are an integral and oft annoying piece of the big budget action formulae. The public just giggles and giggles at all the high tech speak and dorky behavior. Look at Alias! The action scenes are quite silly (take the one with the blonde swinging from the door of the van). When the same blonde so easily caves into the plot of heisting the DOI after appearing to be the ethical one, I was amazed at how unbelievable this film was.
At times the story is intriguing and the characters are amusing but these times are overshadowed by the overall sensationalistic Die-Hard meets Independence Day qualities (is anyone else sick of Jerry Bruckheimer's perpetually dumbed down style?)
The dialogue mostly caters to the lowest common denominator (the masses), when it's not speaking over their heads, and is worthy of the critics' wrath. The Masonic/Knights Templar stuff is exciting and worthy of a film leagues beyond this one. I recommend that you put down the Dan Brown books, quit renting or buying sensational films like this and go find any book by Robert Anton Wilson to really stretch your mind on secret societies.
The premise of this film would have been much better served by a Ridley Scott, David Cronenberg, or Ken Russell. David Mamet could have done a more stimulating version while sleep-walking.
You've been "kissed by the vampire" on this one.
40 Disengage your brain to enjoy "The Founding Fathers Code"
Here is your first clue: "National Treasure" is to "(fill in the blank)" as "Jezebel" is to "Gone With the Wind."
While the millions of book readers wondering who was going to play Robert Langdon (Tom Hanks) and Sophie Neveu (Audrey Tautou) in Ron Howard's next movie did not approach the passionate debate over who should play Rhett Butler and Scarlett O'Hara, there is no doubt that "National Treasure" is an attempt to capitalize on the great interest in a best-selling novel about unraveling arcane clues left by famous people in the same way that "Jezebel" got to the silver screen with a movie about the ante-bellum South before "GWTW." The question is whether "National Treasure" is just an appetizer to whet our appetite for next year's version of Dan Brown's novel or if this will turn our stomach to the whole idea of films where only the hero can decipher the clues and solve the mystery.
The key is not to take this film seriously because it does not. After all, there is not a secret society that is dodging the steps of Benjamin Franklin Gates (Nicholas Cage), but a villain, Ian Howe (Sean Bean) who wants the treasure because it is worth billions of dollars. Yes, there is a pretty blonde with a foreign accent (Diane Kruger) to provide informative, help and a love interest for the hero, but there is also a nerd (Justin Bartha) for comic relief and hard science. Ultimately, "National Treasure" is more like an adventure computer game, where you around a collect strange objects and visit interesting places while solving puzzles that eventually get you to whatever you are looking for, which suggests that a younger audience that does not often get away from their computer screens long enough to read an actual novel will enjoy this film more.
Gates is the latest in a line of family members named for the Founding Fathers and committed to the search for a fabled ancient treasure originally discovered under King Solomon's Temple moved from Jerusalem by the Knights Templar and brought by Free Masons to the New World where it was secreted away by those same Founding Fathers. Having discovered the meaning of the first clue given to him by his grandfather (Christopher Plummer), Ben Gates figures that the next is found on the back of the Declaration of Independence, written in invisible ink. Gates knows this, Howe knows this, and the race is on to beg, borrow or steal the most important piece of parchment in the United States and figure out the next clue in the puzzle.
On the plus side the film can be seen, as one kid observes in the alternative ending, as an attempt to make the viewers learn something about American history, which is a laudable if secondary goal in and of itself. But basically this is a caper film, which means you do not have to try and figure out the clues because the screenplay gives Gates just enough time to figure it out while the rest of us try to follow along. Otherwise, what this 2004 film from director Jon Turteltaub ("Phenomenon," "Instinct") says to us is that the Founding Fathers must not have cared as much about establishing a new nation if they sat on all that money instead of using it to buy weapons to gain independence or pay the soldiers in the Continental Army who were freezing to death at Valley Forge. Of course, then there would be no treasure to hunt in this movie.
They always said that if Ben Franklin had written the Declaration of Independence rather than Thomas Jefferson he would have put a joke in it, so perhaps it is not surprising that he is the merry prankster behind a lot of the code breaking and puzzle solving in this film. Fortunately the codes and puzzles on the DVD special features that get you to bonus sections and the trivia track for the film are a lot easier to solve. Why the treasure is lost makes no sense since the colonists did win the American Revolution and the signers of the Declaration were not slaughtered like the Knights Templar. So the desperate situation told reached in the story Gates is told by his grandfather would not have been reached. Of course, that would take the wind out of this movie and we just cannot have that. Instead we move along so that we get to the "Raiders of the Lost Ark" big finale. "National Treasure" is not anywhere near that good of a ride, but it is solid escapist fare with touches of American history.
At least this film will not inspire anyone to wonder if the story is true and we will be spared dozens of books arguing out the fact and fiction of the tale. Then again, the Declaration of Independence DOES have a back...
41 Master Key 405
Kudos to Disney again for another fine family film. The last few years with "Pirates of the Carribean", "Holes", and "Princess of Thieves" I am developing a real respect for Disney again. Perhaps they realized somebody needed to make family movies like they did so many years ago. This movie was just plain light fun for the whole family. My wife and I loved it and couldn't wait until it came out on DVD. I ran out today and got it. Nicholas Cage and Diane Kruger are great along with the wonderful support cast. Any fans of the Indiana Jones movies should enjoy it. It is like a modern version of one of the Harrison Ford movies.
Plenty of action and excellent camera work make it a must for fans of the genre. The musical score is compelling and adds to the suspense. One of the things I truly enjoy about the movie is that it revolves around true historical events and it takes you to historical places. Does it have some implausibility, sure, but that won't stop you being glued to your seat for the whole movie. As we follow Cage from childhood in searh of a hidden Masonic treasure of great wealth we are tantalized with clues that take us to the next step. Jon Voight is great as the skeptical father, and Christopher Plummer is wonderful as the grandfather that believes in the stories of the Masonic treasure. Did you know Christopher Plummer acted in another interesting Masonic story, "The Man Who Would Be King"?
The DVD has lots of extras like a documentary, commentary, deleted scenes, and alternate ending. It even has Cryptography puzzles and letter and number clues that will allow you to open the Trivia version of the movie. The picture and sound are excellent. I highly recommend this DVD if you enjoy adventure movies for the whole family.
42 Interesting tale based on American history
As others have said, this movie does bear some similarities to the Indiana Jones films... But it is no more a rip-off of Indian Jones than it is of the Goonies. This is an interesting and entertaining film in its own right, which left me with a greater historical understanding of a very rich period of American history, and the curiosity to learn more. Overall a worthwhile watch.
43 Cool
This movie was very entertaining. You also got to learn more about American History. The funniest part was when a guy was saying how well the Constitution was guarded, with kids on their school field trip cuz that was EXACTLY what we did on our field trip to the Constitution. My friend and I were laughing so hard. There was a lot of suspense, and it was definitely a feel-good, clean movie. The lack of bad words was nice and refreshing.
44 Read B Franklin first so that you know who's on second...
What's with all the critical carping about Da Vinci Code meets Indiana Jones? After all, who did Dan Brown crib from, to say nothing of the Lucas-Spielberg boys. Basic plots and conundrums go back as far as unrecorded history / storytelling. The real points are elsewhere, not in the vehicle (which is only a conveyance, after all).
Here's a nice adventure yarn which wears its cinematic/literary influences one way or the other depending on your personal taste and preference. I took it as a well done, tongue-in-cheek if not particularly deep bit of popcorn entertainment.
Yes, the music is overcooked John Williams. Yes, the historical elements are skewed, to say the least, when they aren't outright inaccurate. Read Walter Isaacson's wonderful biography of Benjamin Franklin, and also his companion volume of Franklin's writings - including the infamous Silence Dogood letters, and you'll see just how easy it is to take a few facts, turn them inside out, and then come up with a thoroughly preposterous tale. Franklin, by the way, was sixteen years old when he wrote these pieces as part of his early adventures in the printing business to which he was then apprenticed.
But, then again, how many people who don't live in Philadelphia understand anything about either the city's revolutionary period history, or of its most famous citizen?
Just enjoy the film for the fluff it is - then go and do your homework. You're bound to wind up learning more about American history than you know at present - and that's worth it by itself.
45 history all the way though
hey this movie is so cool every seance is so cool and the actors and actress are great. the movie goes to different location such as washention d.c. and phili. every seacn is teeth grinding and on tip on your toes. hopely this will help.
46 Nicolas Cage miscast for the nth time: ENOUGH ALREADY!
What the f___ happened to Nicolas Cage? Here's a man with obvious talent yet something in his mind compels him TIME AND TIME AGAIN to accept roles beneath him. Part of it is ego. He wants to bolster his image as a he-man, but he fails more often than not. Examples? Just about everything he's been in. I remember the days when I watched in amazement his performances in Raising Arizona, Leaving Las Vegas, Red Rock West, and Adaptation (his last great role). Everything else causes my head to ache in embarrassment. Thank god he didn't land the role of Superman. He CAN pull off dark, tough characters. Wild At Heart is a superb display of what he's capable of there. Unfortunately, he seems resigned to be an action hero / macho-stud wannabe. Such a sad, sad waste of talent spent on years of garbage.
47 ...
man i really wish jahn cusack was in this movie. I really wanted another nude seen with him after seeing his wee muscled butt in highlander. oh well, that's life...
48 Excellent....in line of Indiana Jones!!
Yes, it is true as mentioned by other reviews, this film does fall into the line of the classic Indiana Jones realm. So What??? That genre of movie needs to be brought back!!! :) Cage and company did an excellent job with everything...the story, although somewhat unbelievable in some parts, was very interesting...be sure to rent this one!!!
49 Fun-Pure and Simple!
Well, maybe not that pure and simple. In this movie the Gates family has spent a long time tracking down the largest treasure known to man that was hidden by our nation's forefathers during the revolution to keep it out of the hands of the Brits.
This is an amazing movie in the vein of Indiana Jones, with a lot of history. It is a great movie for kids going through American History in school in that it contains a lot of history lessons, as well as lacking in murder (only one person dies, and that was because he standing on a very old rotten bridge), sex, and cursing. Definitely a must see.
50 2 unbearable nuisances in this movie drives me nuts!
1)endless background annoying music, not even 3 seconds without totally unrelated music
2)the young sidekick's goat-like mehhhhhehhh voice
very formatted, stereotyped and cliched movie almost every scene, storyline, acting, directing.
51 Excellent, clean movie for young and old alike!
Not one bad word, no blood, and a body count of one. Doesn't sound like much does it?
Well, don't let this fool you. This movie is excellent. It proves that you don't need gratuitous violence, language and sex to make a movie exciting with adventure and action. Kudos to Walt Disney for bringing us an excellent movie that you can take your kids to see.
The action moves at a brisk pace, never letting you catch your breath. The action is excellent and well executed and the acting and story are fabulous. The basic premise is that a group of men called the Masons were tasked with keeping vast amounts of treasure (now over 2,000 years old) out of the hands of people who would abuse it. The location of the treasure is unknown, but the Mason's have apparently left clues (such as the all-seeing eye on the 1 dollar bill) which eventually points to the Declaration of Independance as the location of a map. What transpires is an excellent movie that keeps your attention until the final scene.
Nicholas Cage still has the ability to pull off a film like this with humor and wit and make it enjoyable and believable.
There is shooting and one death in the movie which is probably the main reason this move is PG. The death is not graphic and it happens quickly.
For children under 7, this film might be a little long in the tooth (131 minutes) for them and the story might move too fast for them to keep their attention. However, children over 7 (especially boys) will love this film. When my wife and I saw it, we weren't expecting much, especially when we saw all the children coming in. But, once the lights dimmed and the movie started, it was hard for my wife and I believe that this movie was that great.
See it. It is worth it.
52 DaVinci Code meets U.S. History
First, let me say that it's hard to go wrong with a film that pairs Nic Cage as the star and Jerry Bruckheimer as the producer. "The Rock", "Con Air", and now "National Treasure". None of them will go down in the annals of history as "great" films, but they're great "popcorn" films.
What does this have in common with "The DaVinci Code", aside from the fact that they both prominently feature the Knights Templar and their treasures? They're both puzzle races. They begin with cryptic clues and take you on a fast-paced adventure where solving each clue leads to another tense race/chase to find the next. The heroes are scholars, there's a brainy and beautiful female somehow drawn into their quest, and they have to get to the finish line before the bad guys either kill them or get there first.
Yes, it's a formula, but so is the syrup that gets mixed with carbonated water to make the soda you'll drink while watching this. The intellectuals, effites, and professional critics have tried to make the word "formula" have four letters when it applies to the plots of books or movies. The formula for a house is four walls and a roof. It works. It's how you execute/implement the formula that makes it good or bad. Some "four walls and a roof" formulas are called shacks while others are called palaces.
The formula in this movie is a fun one when it's well executed, and "National Treasure" pulls it off as well as or better than "The DaVinci Code" in my opinion.
Also, if you have the patience, the movie's extras are set up as a treasure hunt with secret code pieces embedded within the available extras. Once you've watched them all, you can enter the code to get to the next menu of extras. Fun, but the constant encouragement from Justin Bartha in the Hieroglyphic game started getting on my nerves.
53 Great adventure film appropriate for youngsters
It seems that just about every movie out there in modern times involves skimpy outfits, swearing, or other adult themes. National Treasure is one of those rare films that is fun for the kids, while offering at least a reasonable amount of intrigue for adults as well.
First, yes, let's get out of the way that the plot and characters are rather one-dimensional and only lightly sketched. Ben wants the treasure - but we never really get a sense of why he's seeking it. Perhaps he wants to find it (as he claims when seeking to avoid prison) to 'give it back to the people'. He's joined by a cute female researcher and a cyber-guy. The trio is up against Sean Bean, who wants the treasure for (gasp) monetary gain.
The main appeal of the movie is that the sanitized adventure takes place in locations that you could visit with your family - Washington DC, Philadelphia, New York. The characters move from location to location, deciphering clues and getting hints of masonic involvement. There are creaky underground caverns, guttering torches, and of course, vast treasures. It helps kids to get interested in history, which is a lovely thing.
There is "sweet" love between the main characters - one mild kiss is the extent of their affection. There is the child-reedeeming-his-father's-love going on. Without giving much away, good triumphs and evil is vanquished.
I really wish they could have done a bit better job on the coherency of the movie, though. Sure, having it so sweet-and-simple was lovely for the kids. However, they could have had a bit more logic in some scenes. They know that one clue is "beneath" a two-word name ... but when they find a plaque with those two words on it, they immediately smash it. When they find that person's body, they immediately cause destruction to the scene, so they can't search it. There's a sundial-type puzzle in one sequence, and they obviously need to know the time of day for the sundial. The puzzle is in three dimensions - they need to know exactly where the sundial points. However, they don't even think at all about what day of the year it should refer to - they simply assume one day is the same as any other.
They use ropes that are over 200 years old, which somehow haven't been gnawed by rats or crisped over time. And, in a scene of ultimate horror for me, they find a room full of ancient documents - and they LIGHT A MASSIVE FIRE. Not only would this have crisped the important papers, but this was in an underground chamber - the smoke and lack of oxygen would have slain them all.
I'm not trying to nit-pick here - there were trillions of little errors if we wanted to get into those. These were the huge, glaring "No Way!" moments that caused huge problems with simply following and enjoying the movie. It would have been so easy for the writers to handle these points properly - to keep it 'sweet' for the kids and 'fun' for the adults. So I find it a shame that they couldn't do that properly.
For the DVD, there were a number of special features provided. They definitely aimed this squarely at kids. There are a tiny amount of deleted scenes and alternate ending options. The main group of special features are 'learn about codes' types of exercises. They take quite a while to work your way through - not because they are hard, but because they are really tedious. You have to solve a number of symbol-matching puzzles. You have to go letter, by letter, using your remote control to find the matches. In one puzzle, even though there are multiple copies of a given symbol on the screen, you have to go back and re-select it each time. That's just silly.
But still, it is meant for kids, and the kids might enjoy doing it step ... by step ... by step ... to get all the secret codes to unlock the super-secret features. There is a tiny amount of information about the Masons, and how the purge of the Templars over 700 years ago still affects us in our fear of Friday the 13th. I would have enjoyed even more "real" information about the Great Seal on dollar bills and so on. There are many topics touched on by the movie which are just let go. Maybe the hope is that people will use the internet to keep figuring out secrets, long after they finish with the movie.
So in summary, if you have kids in the house, then National Treasure is a great, safe movie to watch together that is a fun story that has a nice moral ending. If you're an adult, I might rent it - but there are many other books out there that cover this topic area (masonic secrets, history of 1776 situation, Templars, etc.) with much more interesting detail. The reality of what went on is even more fascinating than anything Hollywood could invent!
54 Amazing accomplishment
Though Nicholas Cage will never be in my top ten actors, in this movie he does splendidly. The very pretty Diane Kruger does quite well also. The plot is deep and twisting, always keeping even the most knowledgeable movie-goer on his/her toes. To those who say this movie is a "Hardy-Boy mystery on steroids..." I say get a stinkin' life. It's a rip-roaring, riveting, action-packed adventure that will keep you wanting more. I know I regretted the movies end, as good as it was. The special effects are good also. One of my favorite aspects of the movie was the authentic and historical locations. Though the whole treasure map on the Declaration of Independence isn't real, and basically the movie is little more than a historical thriller, I know if I was a history-teacher I'd take my students to see it. What I'm getting at is if you need a clean, exciting, adventurous movie to rent, get this one.
55 Good mix of adventure and history
National Treasure, a movie full of high adventure and history. Normally treasure hunts are associated with pirates and treasure maps were x marks the spot. National Treasure puts a new spin on the meaning of treasure map. We are taken back in time to when our founding fathers created the Declaration of Independence and all other national documents of our nation. Who ever would have thought to put a map on the back? This movie is so full of energy and fun filled adventure you never have a moment to relax. The concept of figuring out where the treasure map is and how all these historical places with in our country lead to the treasure is amazing and very creative. It actually really does make you wonder what all the symbols on the dollar bill really mean. Not so much a movie for kids, but this movie is a sure winner for adults especially those interested in history and adventure. The creator of this movie really put a twist on our countries history that we only wish was true. This movie has you thinking the entire time as to what is going to happen next and if the good guys will come out on top. You are thinking so much; you leave the theater in awe and wonder, continuing to think about the whole movie as you leave for home.
56 So-So Action Film
"National Treasure" is, for the most part, a standard action film with few surprises. The film does have a sense of humor about itself, which helps, and some of the clues to the mystery are interesting. The best part of the film, for me, are the locations in Philadelphia of Independence Hall and other historic landmarks. Nicolas Cage is okay as the hero, but not unique or very compelling. The special effects are good, especially at the climax.
I give it a marginal endorsement, but it could have been better.
57 A family-friendly adventure
What a delight to find a movie with no gratuitus sex, profanity, and excess violence. It held our attention from beginning to end, and was a adventure in the spirit of Indiana Jones. Nicolas Cage was great. We give it high marks for great fun!
58 It's About Time We Had Another Adventure!
Even though the days of the Adventure genre has been slow somewhat lately, taken over by the more serious side of action and military films, some great adventure films come out that make us feel energized at the end. From the director of Pirates of the Caribbean comes another adventure of epic proportions.
Meet Ben Franklin Gates, an ecentric "treasure protector" on the quest to find the treasure of the Free Masons, supposedly the treasure of all treasures. Taking on the tradition of six generations, Gates squares off against burning boats in the artic, a restless FBI task force, a ruthless thief, a yelling archivist and plenty of skepticism in the academic community. Teamed up with the nerdy, feeling left out sidekick Riley, they go quickly from clue to clue trying to find the treasure, but even they get skeptical as to whether the treasure is real or just a legend to fool the British during the American Revolution.
Despite many historical inaccuracies to make the history tie into the movie, it is still a history lesson about the founding fathers and does bring out the American spirit while watching. I remember emerging from the theatre, wanting to go on my own adventure again just like when I was in elementary school. The action is pretty good, but not too violent, in fact it's hardly violent at all. It also has no profanity so all ages can watch it.
The DVD features arn't bad at all. Buena Vista tried a concept I've never seen before; it's called multilevel treasure hunt, where the more you watch in the special features, the more clues you get to access more special features. It was cool at first and took me one try to figure out the puzzle.
I watched the alternate ending and I'm glad they kept the ending that's actually in the movie, the trimming was well done after seeing the deleted scenes. The animatic opening had some interesting parts about the Templars that were actually more intriguing and historically accurate than the movie itself, so they could've done some work there.
Overall, with the historical inaccuracies, I'd give National Treasure a 4.5. Defintely worth getting when it comes out on May 3rd with the cool special features.
59 Different than what I had expected...
...and I want to start this review by saying; This didn't remind me much of Indiana Jones at all. First of all because the lead characters share a very few similarities. And the same goes for the story. It's another treasure-hunt, that's all, and there are plenty of other movies about treasure-hunts. Some good, some not as good, and some better than "National Treaure". That being said; The father/son-thing is the only similarity between "Indiana Jones" (the third movie that is) and this movie. But then again not quite. The treaure-hunters' father does not play a big part of "National Treasure", and I find the part so small it surprises me they even got the fantastic Jon Voight to act in it (well, good money not charity of course...).
What I didn't expect was for the entire (almost anyway) treasure-hunt to take place in a town (in the US). A race among two rivaling themes (one good, one bad - of course) among thousands of people with their map leading them to clue after clue. And then finally to the treasure of course, it is Walt Disney. I expected deserts and ancient, buried pyramids. So it turned out to be far more "James Bond"/"Mission Impossible" than "Indiana Jones". And it worked.
Action/Adventure would be a proper description of "National Treasure". I'm not the biggest fan of Nicholas Cage actually(after a lot of later uninteresting movies), but the man can act - and he really was a pleasure to watch in this movie. He and his collegues. It really shows they were having a good time doing this!
Highly recommended!
60 As breezy and fun as a Disney ride with less wait
There's a difference between a cheesy popcorn movie and a breezy one. "National Treasure" falls into the latter category. "National Treasure" is a fun, quick paced film with a nice performance from Nicholas Cage that tips its hat to "Raiders of the Los Ark" and other adventure movies without borrowing from them. Turtletaub has made a movie that's fun for the whole family and doesn't resort to the cheap tricks that a lot of other adventure movies use to make its point.
There's gold in them there hills and the founding fathers know where the treasure is buried. Cage plays Ben Gates who is in pursuit of a mythical treasure. Gates and his family have been looking for this treasure for years and he now believes that the final clue--a map--may be on the back of the Declaration of Independence. Unfortunately, Gates must compete against his former backer the ruthless Ian Howe (Sean Bean "The Lord of the Rings", "Troy", "Goldeneye")to obtain the information he needs.
Filled with marvelous supporting turns from Jon Voight, Christopher Plummer, Harvey Keitel "National Teasure" despite its PG rating (more for violence and scary images)is great fun for kids and parents alike. While there's enough plot holes to drive a truck through and a number of implausible moments, director Jon Turteltaub recognizes (as Hitchcock did) that if the plot is involving, credible on the surface and breezy fun audience will overlook any minor flaws in a film. He does a great job directing the movie keeping the quick pace and witty dialogue flying.
Extras include an alternate ending which didn't quite work for the movie. There's both a commentary from the director and a introduction by Turtletaub as well. We also see an animatic (a computer generated animation that suggests what the final scene will look like)for the opening sequence again with a brief intro by Turtletaub. The 12 minute featurette gives plenty of behind-the-scenes footage of one of the best action sequences. Most of the rest of featurette focuses on talking heads with the director, producer and actors discussing the production of the movie what they hoped to achieve. It's essentially a promo reel for the movie. There's also about 8 minutes of deleted scenes included as well. At the end of each extra there are clues given that will lead you to a "treasure" on the DVD. Once you have the master code you can click on the book in the corner to submit the secret key and get access to your "treasure". There's also a couple of additional worthwhile featurettes including one on "The Knights of Templar" and one entitled "Treasure Hunters Revealed" which I haven't had time to watch as of yet.
"National Treasure" provides a fun diversion for fans of fast paced action films and, unlike most films from that genre, it's not cheesy action junk. The extras although not extensive are nice additions. Pay attention to the clues at the end of each action sequence and you'll get a chance at your own little "treasure".
61 An E-ticket Ride
Another in a long list of Jerry Bruckheimer produced films, this film centers around the possibility of hidden treasure at the hands of our Founding Fathers and the Order of Masons.
The film stars, Nicolas Cage as Benjamin Gates; one of a long list of Gates who have spent most of their lives searching for this mysterious and elusive bounty. Benjamin, however, possesses the ability to unravel the encrypted clues set before him.
Ben's father, Patrick Gates (played by veteran actor Jon Voight) believes that the treasure is actually an elaborate hoax set in place to baffle the British during the time of the American Revolution at the exact timing as the signing of the Declaration of Independence. This, as it so happens, plays a pivotal role and significant key piece to the long list of clues needed to decipher the puzzle of the treasure.
Done in typical Bruckheimer fashion, the film is grand in nature even if highly unbelievable; although it's quite the rollercoaster ride you've come to expect in a film of this magnitude. Running the gamut from Arctic Circle to burial tombs of Trinity Church, this film provides all the entertainment value required for an enjoyable night out. So check your intellectual thought processes at the door, and strap yourself in for an E-ticket ride, this film is sure to amuse even the most apprehensive at heart. I highly recommend it.
http://farisreel.com
62 Great popcorn flick
First I will say that the DVD is a little bit better than average quality. The bonus material is okay, but the director actualy has some interesting things to say about his movie an why some of the things were changed. There is an alternate ending. This is a case of the directors explanation being a interesting as the acutal ending(the movie ending is better).
National treasure is an above average popcorn flick, that has a fun tone more in the realm of Men in Black or Indepedence day with a twist from the Divinci Code. It gets all the right mix of comedy, action, sex appeal, a little light history, and a moment or two of fun over the top patriotism. What makes me really enjoy this kind of movie is that they were able to act out some pretty ridiculous sequences seroiusly enough to aviod it being camp, but with enough humor to aviod being too pretentious. Cage plays his part perfectly makeing his character odd and a little bit distant. Overall this film is no classic, but is one of the better light movies of the last 2-3 years.
63 CAN'T WAIT FOR MY COPY TO ARRIVE!
I saw this movie in the theater and loved it. Nick Cage is great and there is a ton of good old fashoned adveture wrapped up in a good historical mystery! I have already ordered my DVD. If you liked "Raiders of the lost Ark", "The Da Vinci Code", or any of Clive Cusslers Dirk Pitt books then this is the movie for you! And dont listen to the reviewers who try and put this movie down because it is not factual or meet their high artistic standards. This movie is Kick "A" fun!
Oh yeah, if you like this kind of thriller/adventure you have to check out "Map of Bones" more kick "A' fun!
64 FINALLY - ANOTHER GREAT MOVIE
There are so few really great, enjoyable movies made today.
This is one of them that has the mystery, action and comedy [or should I say subtle humor?].
Benjamin Franklin Gates is following a boyhood dream [idea] planted in him by his grandfather. Much to daddy's distress. Was he secretly in pursuit of this legend?
Somewhere there is a great hidden treasure that has been guarded by the legendary Knights Templar and all he has to do is find some kind of clue to the hidden site.
Gates turns in some heart-pounding chases [loved her hanging from the truck] close calls with our beloved villian [Sean Bean] and, dad-gum it, the FBI is close on his tail.
The theft of the Declaration of Independence [outstandingly mind boggling & brilliantly executed] was a high-stakes crime that fired up the FBI pursuit.
I loved the hidden, dangerous stair-case and the fabulous, breath-taking treasure room. What is not to enjoy?
I feel sorry for those that cannot enjoy a really great movie.
Should be added to the classics - The Rock and yes, Indiana Jones etc.
A great cast of actors [actress] - a really Whiffy story - a great family movie.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED - definitely a keeper
65 THIS MOVIE IS THE BOMB!
This movie is siick, i loved it, i like movies about history and all of that and the way they went after the gold was FUN!! Im buying this movie asap!!!!
66 AWESUM!!!
THIS IS THE BEST MOVIE SINCE LotR!!!!!!!! Reily is the man! hes really funny. i learned a few things from it about history, though i kno that it is not all accurate, like the liberty bell thing. i loved it and i kno that i will buy it and probly have to get a second copy cuz the first one wore out from watching it soooo much!!!!!!
67 In Our Day and Age... ****1/2
National Treasure is proof of what us "common" listeners, movie goers, readers and observers have suspected for a long time; That critics are usually wrong/stupid. This movie got bad reviews. Not even bad - abysmal reviews. And do you wanna know why? After everything is said and done, it's because there's no sex, no foul language, and it's entertaining instead of disturbing. Well we can leave them to the business of deciding what our likes and values "should" be, and we they can pontificate why movies they view with disdain end up as year-end blockbusters. With that being said, I feel I should come from a different angle. This movie is also NOT an anti-Christianity film (and I find it interesting that people would equate it as such, seeing as there are so many other mediums that are). The plain and simple facts: pretty much everyone involved in shaping this country: from establishing it, to breaking from England, from the signing of the Declaration of Independence, to the men we've elected as Presidents have been Christians. ALSO, more than half the men that signed the Declaration were Masons. Simple facts. George Washington was a Mason. Ben Franklin was a master mason. Lodges were established pretty much everywhere across the East Coast. There's no way to dispute these things because they happened. Coming to the conclusion that masonry is anti-Christian just shows a lack of knowledge on the subject (especially since most masons are Christian to begin with). This is a completely different topic (something that I wouldn't mind discussing with anyone via e-mail), so onto the movie.
It's well written, interesting, with a cliff-hanger look into history that more than acknowledges Dan Brown. (By the way, Dan Brown's new book is on the same subject as this movie. I'm not sure which is interdependent.) It's well produced, well casted, with very few lagging moments. The story is great and the American historical sights are filmed very well, showing masonic influence in virtually everything our Founding Fathers did. I really don't see how this can be construed as negative. Perhaps critics don't like Disney.
Seeing an early edition DVD of this movie, I can say that the special features are certainly lacking. Putting any type of "history channel" type documentary of the evolution of templars-to-masons would have been nice. Even masonry in American history would have been good. Basically, there's a 5 minute mini-history that covers the same ground as the movie or is common knowledge. Perhaps the "special edition" will have more. The lacking special features pales to the greatness of the movie. One of the best!
Overall: 9 out of 10.
68 Treasure is left over Junk.
If you are looking for something remotely new, witty, or original then you may want to avoid the drek that is National Treasure. The movie, starring Nicholas Cage, is a perfect hodgepodge of every action-adventure you've ever seen or read. Start with a sprinkle of Indiana Jones, throw in a dash of The Da Vinci Code, then just two shakes of anything else you can think of and you've made a National Treasure mess cake.
The dialogue is so predictable and trite you almost groan with foreknowledge. Cranky old dad? Check. Dastardly villian who's lines were written by a six year old? Check. Beautiful but brainy girl AND quirky sidekick with throwaway one liners? Check. All leading up to a perfectly Disney ending? Double check. So if you're looking for a nice little cotton candy film (you know the kind have big fluff and when you take a bite it all disappears), or have some Cage obession, this will be for you. Otherwise just go grab the Indiana Jones trilogy and enjoy.
69 WHAT ITS SUPPOSED TO BE !
THIS IS A MOVIE-IT IS SUPPOSED TO BE ENTERTAINING AND PROVIDE A LITTLE SUSPENSION OF DISBELIEF AS IT WERE. ENJOY THE FILM MAN !!!! What the frick is wrong with all this critical analysis by people ? First of all, Dan Brown ripped off most books especially Holy Blood, Holy Grail and he only gisted theories present for years- so quit talking about Dan Brown and the Da Vinci Code when speaking of the Templars or any media that discusses the Templars or uses it as a basis for books and movies. Brown's NOVEL presents nothing new although I did love the Da Vinci Code - that said.......First the facts: (1) The Templars were the direct inheritors of the treasures under Herod's Temple in Jerusalem and became very wealthy, eventually melding into multiple esoteric orders from the Rosicrucians to the alleged Priori de Sion to modern Magick circles of Crowley / La Vey. (2)The Templars, post Crusades and after their destruction by the Pope in 1307, took their occult knowledge into Scotland and England where it took full bloom as what we know now as Speculative Freemasonry. (3) This country (USA) was built by forefathers all of whom were Freemasons seeking to break with the English Monarchy to form A NEW SECULAR ORDER based on democracy and the power of individuals and the brotherhood of man, therefore certain Masonic symbols are inside the US CAPITOL structure and layout, many ideas religious and otherwise were Masonic in origin. The possibility that American artifacts could contain symbols, codes and secret knowledge is not only possible but easily researched by COMPETENT researchers. (4) The Templar Treasure exists and some of that Treasure is symbolic or alchemical in nature and not necessarily gold and silver. (5) It is the Templar activities and that of their patrons, the alleged Priori de Sion, that have spread the Mary Magdalene / Jesus theories of Holy Blood Holy Grail, the Last Temptation of Christ, the Da Vinci Code and spread into movies such as The Last Crusade / Indiana Jones.
So, the premise is a model for good screenplays and adventure movies and is fair game. It shocks me that so many find the issue shocking or silly----why ? because they do not do their homework or they swallow all the US / European history MYTHS shoved in our face since grade school ! Anyway, if we have to take everything literally, then how did Star Wars, Alien, Planet of the Apes, 2001 etc etc become a significant part of our culture--there is no freakin Aliens folks but the possibility scares the ......out of us deosn't it ? You bet !
Enjoy a movie for its entertainment value and concede the possibility of the subject matter even if you perceive it as hokey..but let me assure you it is not hokey....it is based on established facts, conjecture and theories espoused by nutballs and scholars alike. You do not have to accept or believe in something to enjoy a movie. This movie delivers ! and it IS good clean fun long missing from the movies and books nowadays.
Like Dan Brown--this is a fictional work or in Browns Case a non-fictional-based-near-factual-fictional-derivative --everybody freaks out every time somebody even challenges tradtional Christianity or world knowledge of secret ativities of powerful secret socieies. These are fictional and the minute we close our eyes to POSSIBILITIES in the world we slap even God in the face. And by the way, God can stick up for himself. I am a Christian myself and absolutely want National Treasure and the soon to be released Da Vinci Code movie in my library and DVD shelf. Awesome stuff !!! And neither of these shook up my faith either. JUST ENJOY THE FREAKIN MOVIE !!!!!!!!!!!!!!
THE RANT PART: Hey you know what- if Jesus had kids...so what ( he still never sinned especially if he was virginal when married and he still could have sacrificed his life as a sin redemption - I am not sticking this in anyones face and saying to believe I am saying the Catholic Church and Fundamentalist Chrisitians of which I am one, have OVERREACTED to this stuff), if Royal Blood ideas trace themselves back to Jesus' and MM's children....so what ---does it change his divinity --not in my book.. also the Life Of Ben Franklin, Leonardo Da Vinci, Nicholas Flamel and Claude Debussy are a good start to your investigation. If you want to learn facts on George Washington, this country and the Templars you must close traditional history books and read qualified authors Ie. Piers Paul Reid, Malachi Martin, Umberto Eco and Zecheriah Sitchin, their work is astounding and will make you open your eyes to worlds more entertaining than National Treasure or Da Vinci Code - truth is stranger NO ---TRUTH IS BETTER THAN FICTION !!!! END OF RANT
I'll say it again...just enjoy the ...... movie :) ITS GOOD MAN
70 Loveable hokum
After checking reality in at the entrance to the movie theater, I was able to kick back, put my real life on hold for 90 minutes and enjoy this movie concerning the stealing of the Declaration of Independence in order to read the map on the back leading to the 'National Treasure'.
Top fun ensues with double-crossings, secret compartments, a bewildered Jon Voigt, unlikely narrow escapes, a demonic Sean Bean and a whole bunch of other unlikely happenings all to a soundtrack of Nicolas Cage shouting his way through to the end of this movie. Great!
71 Fun Adventure for Family
National Treasure could be compared to other adventure films and similarities could be drawn. Doing so doesn't draw away from the fun adventure that you and your family will encounter while watching this film.
Sit back and enjoy the mythical elements of an accumulated treasure right here in our own country. With knights, freemasons, and historical characters all protecting it with their very lives.
Join Ben Gates as he uncovers clue after clue in an amazing combination of secrecy and evil as he's pursued by those who want to exploit the treasure as their own. Cheer for Ben as he figures out the clues only to find his way blocked by the FBI and his enemies.
With friends at his side, Ben Gates discovers what no one else in over 200 years had been able to figure out. Watch his triumph. Celebrate with him. Be happy for him.
This is a movie that you can watch with your family, from young to old. Disney produced it.
72 Adventure and History in a great flick-what could go wrong?
I am constantly amazed that people still believe the critics when they give their "professional" opinions of movies. Especially when they pan a great movie like National Treasure and rave about a piece of trash like Monster's Ball. I you are looking for good, clean, adventure with plenty of non-stop action then order National Treasure today. The critics have lost all touch with the American public and have no idea what we want to see. If the action seems familiar and reminds you of Indiana Jones- so what. Those were highly entertaining movies as well. Just sit back and hang on for the rollercoaster joyride of your life... and let the kiddies join in. There is nothing here to embarrass you - or them.
73 A good movie, but steals a lot from Indiana Jones
This movie is great and is worth seeing. The acting and story are phenomonal, as are the special effects.
That being said, I do have a few problems. First, this movie copies so much from "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade" that it isn't even funny. For instance, the girls in both movies are blonds with German accents. Also, both movies involve the main characters' fathers. Finally, in both, the main character is betrayed by someone who he trusted.
Another problem I have is that the stealing of the Decleration of Independence was a)Too easy, and b) reminiscent of the "Mission Impossible" movies.
Even with the flaws and outright copying of plot elements in this movie, it is still very enjoyable. A definite 1.5 thumbs up.
74 Suspend belief and have some fun!
Yes, yes, you critics- the plot is silly and familiar. The Nicholas Cage-Jon Voight son-father oedipal dynamic smacks of Freud and reeks of 'Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.' So what? This film is fast-paced fun. What's more- you can actually let the whole family see it! Perhaps the best part for American viewers is that most of them will have tread the ground at some of the sites featured--Trinity Church, Independence Hall, the National Archives.
Come on, suspend belief and have a kooky good time! The acting isn't bad and the cinematography and editing are acceptable. Buy this as an adventure yarn with American touchstones and have a good popcorn-crunching Saturday night on the sofa with family or friends.
The plot revolves around a vast secret treasure, dating to ancient times and hidden by the Freemasons. It's nice to see that ancient and accepted order shown in a good light, instead of being the conspirator buddies of Jack the Ripper ("Murder by Decree," "From Hell").
So, watch this film expecting action and adventure but no depth or logic. That's OK; we all need some eye candy now and then! Enjoy!
75 The clues are right in front of your eyes.
National Treasure (2004) was one of those films I meant to see in the theaters, but it seems nowadays if you don't see a film within a week or two after it's released, you're stuck waiting for the video as it gets yanked, soon to be replaced by the next blockbuster waiting in line...which is a shame as it's actually a pretty decent, family friendly film despite its various flaws. Produced by the busiest man in show business Jerry Bruckheimer (Black Hawk Down, Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl, Veronica Guerin), and directed by Jon Turteltaub (Cool Runnings, Phenomenon), the film stars Nicolas Cage, who is not only slated to appear in the remake of the 1973 classic The Wicker Man, but is also cast as the title character in the upcoming Ghost Rider film, based off the popular Marvel Comic book (whether these are good or bad things, only the future can tell). Also appearing is Diane Kruger (Troy, Wicker Park), Justin Bartha (Gigli), Sean `Boromir' Bean (The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring), Jon `Joe Buck' Voight (Midnight Cowboy, Deliverance), Christopher Plummer (Twelve Monkeys, Dracula 2000), and my girlfriend's favorite actor Harvey `Sport' Keitel (Mean Streets, Taxi Driver).
The film begins by relating a tale of a legendary treasure (originally belonging to King Solomon) that grew to incredible proportions over the years, one that eventually came into the possession of the Templar Knights during The Crusades, who later became the Freemasons, or some such thing (history was never my bag, man). Anyway, due to the enormity of the treasure, it was decided it was too much for one man or group to possess, so it was hidden away, its existence only hinted at by a series of seemingly unfathomable clues, some of which we see on a daily basis (check out the pictures on your paper money...there's some weird stuff going on there...like that pyramid with the eyeball). Anyway, Cage plays Ben Gates, a man who's spent the better part of his life following the clues, as his family has intimate knowledge to support the notion that the treasure is real. Near the beginning of the film we see Ben involved with Ian Howe (Bean), a wealthy financier with a questionable background, but the two part ways as the clues lead them to the Declaration of Independence, specifically a hidden map on the back. Howe intends to steal the sacred document, but Ben is opposed to this as he's not really a treasure hunter, but a more of a historian interested in preserving the past not for personal gain, but for the benefit of all. Now Ben must steal the document if only to keep it out of Ian's grubby hands, stay ahead of the FBI...and perhaps find the treasure himself, part of his motivation is that the general public believes his family a bunch of crackpots for believing in such a conspiracy, one thought to be created by the colonial fathers to keep the British busy looking for something that never existed...
Overall I did enjoy this film, as it has wonderful production values and was inherent with a sense of fun. There are some nick picky things that came up for me like if the Knights really wanted to keep the location of the treasure secret, why have all these clues laying about? Why not hide it and let the secret of the location die with those in the know? Because you wouldn't have a movie...also, the whole thing about Ben stealing the Declaration of Independence to keep it away from Ian...why not team up with Ian after it was stolen and work together after all (Ben tried to warn the authorities someone was going to steal it before he did, but they didn't take him seriously)? Because we needed a bad guy element to keep the pressure on Ben to find the treasure before Ian's group...and the whole theft of the actual document seemed to come off a bit too easy, but whatever...the characters were pretty standard all around, but I did find Riley Poole (Bartha) as Ben's comic sidekick a little annoying with all his smart alecky comments. He was supposed to be a computer whiz, but his usefulness as the story progressed seemed negligible as his skills really aren't needed much after the theft of the sacred document. I was slightly saddened to see Voight (Ben's father), Plummer (Ben's grandfather), and Keitel (FBI agent) having such meager parts, as these guys are heavy hitters and could have brought a lot more had they'd been given the chance. And the character played by Ms. Kruger, who was the director of the National Archive, roped into the proceedings...that whole love interest thing seemed tacked on...but fear not, there are a number of things to like about the film. The story itself was very interesting, the finding and deciphering of the various clues, seeing how they fit into the grand scheme of things, and seeing where they led was a whole lot of fun. There's plenty of action throughout, but surprisingly little violence and virtually no profanities, especially considering some of Bruckheimer and Cage's previous films like The Rock (1996), Con Air (1997), and Gone in Sixty Seconds (2000). I think this stems from Disney's more direct involvement and their wanting to create a more family orientated action film, with an educational spin (which I liked). Another thing I really liked was the location shots, many around sites of national interest. All in all, I'd give this film 3 ? stars as it's a fun ride, despite a few bumps.
The widescreen anamorphic (2.35:1) comes through beautifully, and the Dolby Digital 5.1 surround audio clear as a bell (the Liberty Bell?). There's a good amount of extras including an `on location' featurette (11:17), deleted scenes (7:47), opening scene animatic (2:21), alternate ending w/intro (1:50), Treasure Hunters Revealed featurette (8:30), The Templar Knights featurette (4:59), Verizon tie-in promotions, and a game called Riley's Poole's Decode This, which enables one to collect codes to enable access to many of these features, including one which I haven't mention (and won't...hee hee, it's not even listed on the Amazon page, but it's not difficult to find as the puzzles are easy). There are also some previews for other Disney films like Herbie: Fully Loaded (2005), The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy (2005), and some video releases including Tarzan II (2005) and The Pacifier (2005).
Cookieman108
76 Haters are ripping themselves off...
Hahaha... Do you know why I'm laughing? I'm laughing at the morons who gave this fun action/adventure film a low mark based on its predecessors. When people are so full of negativity that they have to slam anything over anything it makes me laugh, because no one is listening and they're only hurting themselves. That's funny to me.
People online LOVE to think they are so smart, love to think that they've caught a new film "stealing" from another: You say "Galdiator", and they say its a theft of "Sparticus", you say "The Matrix" and they say "Tron"--- this can go on and on---and they just *have to* come to Amazon and rage... cause what else have they got to do, right? You've all cheated yourselves out of a good time with your opinionated, self importance--- including professional reviewers who make a living on their asses watching film after film until they are so jaded that it isn't in them to dismiss certain flaws in favor of the experience. This is a movie that one should sit back and enjoy, and not split hairs over. Does anybody go to movies to enjoy them anymore?
I laugh that because a film is made in the tradition of the Action Adventure genre, it is therefore a theft to the kiddies on Amazon, who are only outcasts that are slammed by life everyday. The cool kids dismiss them, the jocks beat them up, the girls won't look at them to spit, they can't get a date to go anywhere with them, and the furthest they travel is to the movie theaters, or the comic book stores where they gather in a bitter-geek gaggle, and decide which films are rip offs of other films.
They've seem em all--- repeatedly--- and they know! Hollywood can't fool them! So they go to movies looking for things to complain about, and Amazon has given them a way to share their bitterness with a community that couldn't care less if you paid them to. It's so sad; so very, very sad. I suppose I should give them credit for not picking up a gun and laying waste to their classmates and teachers while blasting Thrill Kill Kult into their headphones.
Did "Raiders" inspire this tale? I'm sure it did. Is National Treasure derivative of the Indiana Jones films? Sure. Did they rip off the Davinci Code?" No. It's inspired by these things to be sure. And only a fool would deny the money angle, but does that make National Treasure a theft? I think not. There is nothing brand new under the sun, but I saw enough originality to believe National Treasure to be inspired, and somewhat derivative of those films, and though I think "The dollar bill is trying to tell me something", is a pretty hackneyed line; I saw no attempt at theft.
So many people here have said National Treasure is trying to "cash in on Raiders". I was eight years old when Raiders of the Lost Ark first came to theaters! Today I am thirty-one! What took them so long to decide to cash in? Why did they wait twenty-four years to start ripping off Raiders?
I must have been at the wrong theater. I didn't see any lines, plot points or characters that resembled those classics in any way. I guess I was too busy having fun to see it. Or maybe like many of us I don't sit around watching the "Indy Trilogy" over, and over till I know each line. I have places to be and I pay for movies to be entertained, not so I can outwit Hollywood.
From where I'm sitting, this is a fun movie that most everyone in the family can enjoy. It's rated PG, has some violence, but no nudity and no foul language. Younger kids will probably not understand the Masonic and Knights Templar references, but they'll probably still enjoy it.
The only thing anyone needs to understand about the Masons is the Knights Templar eventually became the Masons, and many of our founding fathers were Masons, so there's a bit of Masonic lore/connection tied into the movie. Other than that, it's easy to follow.
Ben Gates is chasing a dream of finding a lost treasure, the map to which is supposedly hidden on the back of the Declaration of Independence. He steals the Declaration, then takes off on his adventure to find the treasure.
I'd be giving National Treasure 3 ? stars, but Amazon doesn't allow it, so I'm giving it 4, just to anger the haters and amuse myself. To put it simply, National Treasure *will* remind you of a cross between the Indiana Jones trilogy, Mission Impossible, Sneakers, and "Ocean's 11". Note I did not accuse it of stealing from any of these. You don't have to be a genius to watch it, and you don't have to be a history nut to understand it.
No, there isn't really a map on the back of the Declaration of Independence (Is there?), but Indiana Jones didn't actually find the Ark of the Covenant either. It's a fun, fantasy, "what-if" kind of movie. Enjoy it, and many thanks for taking the time to read my own worthless opinion.
77 Ignore the Press... WATCH THIS MOVIE!
This movie as they say is "the Indiana Jones of the New Millennium" and they couldn't be more right. In the style of Indiana Jones this movie gives you a fun action adventure for the whole family. I was surprised at how much bad press this movie had gotten. But that didn't distract me from going to see this movie ,I'm sure Glad i did. Of course the plot is far fetched. But so was Indiana Jones. National Treasure is a exciting ride of conspiracy theories. This movie will leave you guessing trying to figure out the clue solving riddles with the characters.
Benjamin franklin Gates( Nicholas cage) has always believed ...Ever since his grandfather told him when he was a kid the story of the legendary knights templar treasure known to be the greatest treasure known to man. He has been obsessed about finding it. But now he is getting closer they find the CLUE a riddle that leads him to map on the back of the Declaration of independence but he is double crossed by one of his team Ian ( sean Bean) who wants the treasure for themselves. So now it's a race against the clock with his partner Riley to steal the document before Ian or risk loosing the Clue and his dream of finding the national treasure be gone forever. will he get the declaration before ian? will the map lead to more clues? will they find the treasure? or is it just a wild goose chase? Watch the movie to find out.
This movie is a must for any action adventure fan. if you love Indiana Jones, The Da vinci Code ....you'll love this movie.This movie gives you a great mix of intrigue,adventure, Romance, Riddle solving with allot fast paced action that leads you on one hell of ride.
So see this movie for first than make up your mind for yourself. National Treasure in my opinion is a Gem. Two Thumbs Up ***** 5 stars.
78 Fun adventure Movie!
Yes this movie is a rip off of the Indiana Jones flicks. Yes the plotting and characters are comic book, but thats what you expect in this kind of movie -- you know that going in. For this genre this is a fun entertaining flick and Nick Cage does a great job in the lead. If your looking for a film classic this aint it but if you looking for a couple hours of good old fashioned entertainment this is the movie for you!
79 Saw this movie twice the first weekend.
I loved this movie. It was great fun. Nicholas Cage was a bigger than life hero, making it mostly unbelievable, but aren't most movies? Better than all the foul-mouthed comedies and dramas flooding the market. I've already seen it three times and may go again before it leaves the discount theatres.
80 Why are adults review Disney means KIDS, right!?
From the time I saw the trailor for the movie I fell in love with it! Need I say more?
I'll admit it had flaws but for a kids' movie it ROCKED!
81 First of all suspend all disbelief.
I've got to believe there are many things that are done to protect the Declaration of Independence from theft (and damage)that we don't know about. It is not going to happen. In this movie Nicolas Cage steals it. Very easily I might add. Now sit back & enjoy the movie. It's good & Cage is always very good. He's not a criminal just a crack-pot professor with a crack- pot father & a theory about a treasure map within the document. Mysteries abound. You'll enjoy it.
82 Sean Bean gets no credit
I originally went to see this movie because Sean Bean is in it. the movie is really good, it's not scary, but it holds your attention so even my brothers could see it. (they're 5) Unfortuantly, if you see any of disney's promotions for it or the commericals for it, they act like Nicholas Cage is the only actor in it, and Sean Bean, who plays the 2nd leading character is never mentioned. That burns my biscuits because he's a much better actor than Nicholas Cage.
83 national treasure
this is the best movie. its a movie that really keeps you guessing and on the edge of your seat!
84 Interesting idea but poor execution.
This movie did not do much for me, just a weak attempt to cash in on "The Da Vinci Code" and "Raiders of the Lost Ark." Which wouldn't be so bad except that it is not very good. Passable enertainment at best.
New Comment: I was probably a little too hard in my original review. This Movie is a good film for children, say 12 and above, but I still say RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK is better!
85 A ride
Some theme park will probably use this as a ride in the near future. Don't look for logic or sensible people. The definition of mindless entertainment.
86 National Treasure
National Treasure is a movie that, though somehow simple, is also somehow complex. I like the basis of it. Some might consider it 'corny', but I don't. The plot to this movie is somewhat believable with a small stretch of the imaginat-ion.
Very mysterious and full of secrets. While there are no major effects included in this piece, I might still consider it an action movie. It has many of the elements.
This movie, like Sahara has little if any language, thus making it suitable for most ages of audience.
I saw this on the big screen, and you know what? I'm buying it the day it comes out.
87 Totally Awesome
I found this to be a very entertaining movie. The best I have seen in a long time. Finally a movie I enjoyed all the way through. It was adventure packed and FINALLY a movie with no Profanity.....Thank you! I get so tired of going to movies where every other word is unsuitable. Not everyone talks like that or wishes to hear others do it. This movie was just really good. I cant wait to buy this DVD.
88 A fun film.
Natonal Treasure is a fun adventure film, but nothing more. Its plot is far fetched, but it was still really original. In the end it's an enjoyable movie.
89 about time
all disney ever comes out with anymore is girl movies. i liked this because me and my brother finally got a movie made for us instead of my little sister. It was lots of action and not lots of girly stuff. We loved it.
90 ROCKS
The general consensus seems to be that this movie is the bomb. TOO TRUE TOO TRUE. Ebert annoys me more and more. I bet if they put a bunch of nudity, sex, and profanity he would have given it 4 stars, but he didn't because it didn't have any of that. Just forget what he said.
Finally a movie that actually talks about the founding fathers, the constitution, the free masons, and the historical building in D.C. It's about time a movie does our Founding Fathers some justice.
Nicholas Cage is super in this. He is very smooth as usual and does a great job. One thing for sure is that it will keep in suspense till the very end. Great Ending Great Story Great Plot Great Action. SEE IT!
91 An Awsome Movie!!
I like this movie because it was vary cool and exciting. I was like popping out of my chair waiting for the next thing to happen. It was so awsome. I hope i get it when it comes out. I would love to have it on dvd. If you havent seen it yet... you should rent it or even buy it. This will be a movie you wont forget!!
92 Cute Geek Alert!!!!!
II absolutely loved this movie. Any movie with a cute geek in it is worth watching. Finally geeks are getting the recognition that they deserve. Someobdy has to love them might as well be me!!!!!
93 It's a "Movie", people!!!
If you fancy yourself a refined movie critic or have any pretense of being highbrow or snootish..... then pass on this one. But if you like action, adventure, good guys and villians in your movies, then ignore the snobs and see National Treasure. Just remember to go into this film armed with the one fact that we all know ahead of time (but some people steadfastly refuse to acknowledge), "IT'S A MOVIE, IT ISN'T REALITY" and you'll have a great time.
So just grab a cold soda, a bowl of popcorn and hang on. This thrill ride is good clean fun!
94 Average comic book entertainment at best!
This movie is just a weak attempt to cash in on "The Da Vinci Code" and "Raiders of the Lost Ark." Which wouldn't be so bad except that it is not very good. Passable enertainment at best. If you like thriller adventures, in exotic places, with ancient cities lost in the Jungle, check out "A Tourist in the Yucatan" underground hit of 2005!
95 Raiders of the lost art (of adventure movies)
I should have figured that this was an action-comedy right about the point when I made the connection with the excellent "Pirates of the Caribbean". Instead, I let myself be fooled by the dramatic movie trailer, which, by the way, is far more exciting than the movie itself.
Nicholas Cage plays Ben Gates, an Indiana Jones-type treasure hunter, except without the dashing good looks, stinging one-liners, or accessories. He comes from a family line that has hunted one particular, illusive, well hidden treasure for as long as they can remember, so of course, it's his duty to find the blooming thing.
Not being a lone ranger, he keeps company with a young sidekick, Riley Poole (Justin Bartha), who's job, other than being the requisite computer geek, is to decide whether to put on or take off his spectacles.
Amazing coincidence leads to amazing coincidence, and before you know it, the horribly miscast Diane Kruger (Abigail Chase) is abandoning her career to do high school science experiments on the back of the priceless Declaration of Independence.
Naturally, every treasure-hunting flick has to have a villain with a British accent, and since Sean Bean has a natural one, he aced his role as Ian Howe, a bad guy trying to get to the treasure before the hero of the movie.
A little "Indy", a little "Mummy" and a little "Goonies", it's a family oriented movie, but lacks the CGI and non-stop action required to keep short attention spans seated. As for the chemistry between Cage and Kruger? Feh! John Voight (Patrick Gates) does a weak version of Sean Connery's role as father of the treasure hunter, and Harvey Keitel is probably still wondering why his agent signed him up for a role that could have been filled by a lesser actor.
As you can tell by now, I was disappointed that this movie didn't live up to its trailer. With such an exciting concept to work with, the clues were found far too easily, and much of the dialogue was as flat as the ending.
"Pirates of the Caribbean" deserved a better follow-up than this.
Amanda Richards, April 8, 2005
