Common Sense Media Review
By Joly Herman
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Historical adventure is a fun romp for tweens and up.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 9+?
Any Positive Content?
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National Treasure
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 31 parent reviews
Parents say this movie is an enjoyable blend of action, adventure, and historical elements, making it suitable for family viewing despite some intense imagery and mild language. While the film presents engaging characters and a thrilling plot, some parents noted concerns about the depiction of female roles and the handling of complex themes for younger audiences.
- action and adventure
- historical elements
- family-friendly
- mild language
- character concerns
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 39 kid reviews
Kids say that this movie is a mix of adventure and educational content, with a captivating plot that keeps viewers engaged, especially kids who enjoy mysteries and history. However, there are mixed feelings about the inclusion of violence, the clarity of the storyline, and the relationships portrayed, particularly one that feels forced, along with concerns about its lessons on conspiracy theories and parental figures.
- educational content
- mixed reviews
- violent elements
- relationship concerns
- engaging adventure
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
Ben Gates (Nicholas Cage) comes from a long line of treasure hunters who have been been chasing a legendary treasure for generations. Ben is determined to solve the mystery with the help of his sidekick Riley (Justin Batha) and an unlikely ally played by Diane Kruger, who is the guardian of the Declaration of Independence. Meanwhile Ben's former colleague and financial backer, Ian (Sean Bean), has betrayed Ben and is trying to find the treasure for himself. With ingenuity, some help from family and friends, and a lot of luck, Ben and his crew might just solve the legend and find the treasure before his enemies do. Along the way, the treasure hunt will take them to historic sites in Washington, Philadelphia, Boston, and New York, from the highest of high-tech security to the ricketiest of ancient catacombs.
Is It Any Good?
Well, it's not Raiders of the Lost Ark, but there are enough thrills and mysteries in this rather clean Disney flick to have made it a hit. The jokes are a little lame, even though Nicholas Cage does his best to bring some spark into his parrying with Diane Kruger's sexy-intellectual portrayal of Dr. Chase. Some weaknesses in the script are plain silly: the hologram emblazoned on the back of the Declaration of Independence, for example, is just laughable.
But history buffs will be happy to fact-check which of the Founding Fathers were indeed Freemasons, and kids can marvel at the buried ship, the code-breaking, and the subterranean caverns and structures, which may or may not contain treasure. Parents of young kids should watch out for the big explosions and the perilous kidnapping scenes which could disrupt the sensitive viewer. No, it's not a NATIONAL TREASURE, but it has good production value and star power -- which counts for something.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about their own family legends and heirlooms. What are some of the stories associated with them? What do you do to make sure they're safe?
Talk about how movies and TV can alter the facts of history. What sources do you use to learn the true facts of history?
What kinds of messages about taking risks and breaking the law does this movie contain? What's the difference between thrilling entertainment and encouraging bad behavior?
Movie Details
- In theaters : November 19, 2004
- On DVD or streaming : May 3, 2005
- Cast : Harvey Keitel , Justin Bartha , Nicolas Cage
- Director : Jon Turteltaub
- Studio : Buena Vista
- Genre : Action/Adventure
- Topics : Adventures , Family Stories , Friendship , History , Holidays ( Independence Day ) , Travel
- Run time : 90 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : action violence and some scary images
- Last updated : November 6, 2025
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