National Treasure

| 2004

Directed by: Jon Turteltaub

Main Plot

National Treasure follows treasure hunter Benjamin Franklin Gates, who is on a quest to uncover a legendary treasure hidden by the Founding Fathers of the United States. The story begins with Gates discovering clues that lead him to believe the treasure is real and hidden in a secret location. To find it, he must decipher a series of historical riddles and codes, including one that is hidden on the back of the Declaration of Independence. As he races against time, Gates faces off against a rival treasure hunter who is also after the treasure. With the help of his friends, he navigates through various historical landmarks and challenges, all while trying to stay one step ahead of those who would do anything to claim the treasure for themselves. The adventure combines elements of history, mystery, and action as Gates seeks to unlock the secrets of America's past.

Characters

  • Benjamin Franklin Gates, a historian and treasure hunter, deciphers clues to find the legendary Templar Treasure before a team of mercenaries does.
  • Diane Kruger plays Dr. Abigail Chase, a National Archives curator who assists in solving historical puzzles and finding a hidden treasure.
  • Justin Bartha plays Riley Poole, a tech-savvy sidekick helping to solve historical puzzles and find hidden treasures.

Ending Explained

In the ending of National Treasure, the main characters, Ben Gates and his team, successfully locate the treasure hidden by the Founding Fathers after a series of clues leads them to the final location. The climax occurs when they decipher the last clue, which directs them to the Trinity Church in New York City. There, they discover a hidden underground chamber containing an immense treasure trove of gold, artifacts, and historical treasures. As they uncover the treasure, they are pursued by the antagonists, who seek to claim it for themselves. A tense confrontation ensues, but Ben and his team manage to outsmart their rivals, ensuring that the treasure is preserved for the nation rather than falling into the wrong hands. The resolution of the main conflict comes when Ben decides to share the treasure's location with the authorities, emphasizing the importance of historical preservation over personal gain. In the final scenes, Ben and his team celebrate their victory, having not only solved the mystery but also secured a significant piece of American history. The film concludes with a sense of adventure and the idea that the pursuit of knowledge and history is a treasure in itself, reinforcing the film's overarching themes of discovery and patriotism.

Jon Turteltaub Action Adventure Mystery Nicolas Cage Diane Kruger Justin Bartha