National Treasure is a movie franchise that has captured the hearts of many history enthusiasts. The series follows the adventures of Benjamin Gates, a historian and treasure hunter, as he searches for hidden treasures and solves historical mysteries. The movies are filled with action, suspense, and historical references that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. In this article, we will take a closer look at the National Treasure franchise and why it has become a favorite among moviegoers.
The Plot
The first National Treasure movie was released in 2004 and was directed by Jon Turteltaub. The plot revolves around Benjamin Gates, played by Nicolas Cage, who is on a quest to find a hidden treasure that has been passed down through his family for generations. The treasure is believed to have been hidden by the founding fathers of the United States and is protected by a series of clues and puzzles.
Gates is joined on his adventure by his friend Riley Poole, played by Justin Bartha, and archivist Abigail Chase, played by Diane Kruger. Together, they must decipher the clues left behind by the founding fathers and outsmart a group of ruthless treasure hunters who are also after the treasure.
The second movie in the franchise, National Treasure: Book of Secrets, was released in 2007. In this installment, Gates must clear his family’s name after his ancestor is accused of conspiring in the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln. To do so, he must find a hidden book that contains evidence of his ancestor’s innocence.
The Historical References
One of the reasons why National Treasure has become so popular among history enthusiasts is because of its numerous historical references. The movies are filled with nods to American history and landmarks, such as the Declaration of Independence, Mount Rushmore, and the Liberty Bell.
In addition, the movies also reference historical figures such as Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and John Wilkes Booth. The filmmakers went to great lengths to ensure that the historical references were accurate and added to the overall authenticity of the movies.
The Action and Suspense
While National Treasure is known for its historical references, it is also a movie franchise that is filled with action and suspense. The movies are fast-paced and keep viewers on the edge of their seats as Gates and his team race against time to solve the clues and find the treasure.
The action scenes in National Treasure are well-choreographed and add to the overall excitement of the movies. From car chases to narrow escapes, the movies are filled with thrilling moments that keep viewers engaged.
The Cast
Another reason why National Treasure has become so popular is because of its talented cast. Nicolas Cage delivers a strong performance as Benjamin Gates, bringing both humor and intensity to the role. Justin Bartha provides comic relief as Riley Poole, while Diane Kruger brings intelligence and grace to the role of Abigail Chase.
The supporting cast is also strong, with actors such as Jon Voight, Harvey Keitel, and Ed Harris adding depth to the movies. The chemistry between the cast members is palpable, making the movies even more enjoyable to watch.
The Conclusion
In conclusion, National Treasure is a movie franchise that has captured the hearts of many history enthusiasts. The movies are filled with historical references, action, and suspense, making them a thrilling adventure for viewers. The talented cast brings the characters to life, adding to the overall enjoyment of the movies. If you haven’t seen National Treasure yet, it’s definitely worth checking out on 123 Movies.