Much better than I thought it would be......

Rating: 7/10 (23 December 2007)

I saw National Treasure: Book of Secrets last night in a VERY packed theater house. I was impressed with the crowd right off the bat. All ages were represented that night. I admit I didn't expect too much from this film, since most sequels these days don't deliver as much, or more, than the originals. But I was pleasantly surprised with this one.
I only had a few minor gripes with the movie. The actual puzzle solving wasn't quite as long and drawn out, or even as complex as the first movie's. It was basically getting a combination to the two desks, getting the combination to the President's book, and reaching for a latch inside the rock. So the actual puzzle/riddle element of this one wasn't as intense as the first, but it was still enjoyable. I also didn't think the city of gold was quite as impressive looking as the original's Knights Templar's treasure.
I did enjoy the new locations the film went to this time. The car chase was as good as it could have been done for a PG movie. The whole theater DIED laughing in the scene in London where Gates and Abigail made their argument and he makes fun of the British guard's accent. Riley added his witty nonsense once again as well.
Just take this film for what it is: a fun, nonviolent, fantasy adventure. No bad words said in the whole movie, no blood to be seen, and only one person dies. Big props to Ed Harris by the way. Having him in the movie was a HUGE lift. He's been very good in many movies. He basically replaced the villain role from Sean Benn in the original.
So don't be afraid that this one will disappoint. It was a very worthy sequel.