National Treasure Seeks National Success

Rating: 8/10 (22 November 2004)

Nicolas Cage brings puts the silver in the silver screen in the edge-of-your-seat action adventure National Treasure.
Descendant from a family of treasure-seekers, Benjamin Franklin Gates (Cage, Gone In 60 Seconds, Matchstick Men) strives to find the treasure hidden by the Founding Fathers after the Revolutionary War. One mere hint, 'The Secret Lies With Charlotte' would lead to a series of clues and long sought after treasure.
Directed by John Turtletaub (The Kid, Phenomenon), National Treasure definitely proves the talent of this magnificent director.
Not only was there brilliance from the director and the plot line, but also the acting was tremendous. Nicolas Cage definitely reached his all-time high alongside newcomer Justin Bartha (Gigli). Other stars include Jon Voight (Varsity Blues, Holes), Sean Bean (Lord Of The Rings, Don't Say A Word) and Diane Kruger (Wicker Park, Troy).
One definite eye-catcher of this film is the matchless cinematography. The camera work during multiple scenes keeps you engaged by every passing second. It powerfully adds to the thrill of the movie.
If nothing else proves it wonderful, the box office just might. With its first weekend out, National Treasure takes in $35.3 million. Coming up close, The Spongebob Squarepants Movie gains $33.5 million in its initial weekend; leaving The Incredibles to spot number three after two weekends out.
If you enjoyed Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (Johnny Depp) or Paycheck (Ben Affleck), this movie would please you.
I personally enjoyed this movie the way Turtletaub intended. I know others did as well, catching the looks on the audience's faces as they immediately turned to their guests with satisfied smiles and content faces.
Judging that it would have been an afternoon with a talking sponge or a date with Mr. Cage for seven bucks, I am fulfilled with the use of my money.