National Treasure

An Indiana Jones wannabe, National Treasure offers an intriguing plot that both educates and entertains.

This modern-day adventure follows Benjamin Franklin Gates (Nicolas Cage), as he searches for clues that will reveal the whereabouts of a fantastic treasure hidden by the Founding Fathers two centuries ago. Gates believes one such clue can be found on the back of the Declaration of Independence but, mocked by the academic community, he is refused permission to examine it. When he learns that his double-crossing associate plans to steal the document, Gates must stay one step ahead. Along the way, he is aided by his nerdy sidekick Riley (Justin Bartha), a reluctant historian (Diane Kruger), and his sceptical and disillusioned father (Jon Voight).

Cage, however, is miscast; he is far too intense an actor to bring the audience into the fun, and he lacks the charm of Harrison Ford. Kruger, too, suggests no charisma; as in Troy, she is pretty, and likeable, but does not leave a lasting impression. Both are overshadowed by the refreshing Bartha who, as comic relief, steals the show. Unfortunately, Sean Bean as the villain and Harvey Keitel as an FBI agent are given characters who are never fleshed out.

Seemingly, the trio of writers were more concerned with fashioning a plausible story based on American history. In that regard, they succeeded; the script is extremely clever and well-planned...so well-planned, in fact, that there is no room for any twists. Each riddle is deciphered all too easily and points directly to the next. Thus, there is little magic as the story progresses.

Jon Turteltaub's direction is uninspiring, but clearly influenced by producer Jerry Bruckheimer, whose touch can be seen in the similarities to the latter's television hits CSI and The Amazing Race. The pounding score tries to emphasize the urgency of the heroes' dilemma but, instead, merely weighs the proceedings down.

National Treasure lacks adrenaline and is surprisingly void of exciting moments. Long on plot, it is short on pleasure. Rating: 5 out of 10.