Nicolas Cage is back as Benjamin Gates. Director Jon Turteltaub confirmed that “National Treasure 3” is officially moving forward, according to The Philadelphia Inquirer. He also revealed that Cage, who played treasure hunter Ben Gates, will reprise his role in the franchise’s third film.
“It’s finally real. Now, it’s Hollywood real, meaning things could happen,” said Turteltaub. “Nic gets hit by a bus. There’s no ‘National Treasure 3.’ If I get hit by a bus, there’s probably a ‘National Treasure 3.’ Welcome to Hollywood.”
Turteltaub shared the scoop at a live event for the “National Treasure Hunt” podcast. The director told hundreds of audience members that he and Disney had approved the completed script. He added, “To whatever extent we can, everyone’s back.”
The first two National Treasure films follow Gates as he searches for valuable relics hidden in U.S. history. The original film saw Gates hunt for the Founding Fathers’ secret treasure using a hidden map on the Declaration of Independence. In the second movie, Gates sets out on a journey to find the legendary city of Cíbola.
Fans Are Excited for Cage’s Return
GettySince its 2004 debut, the “National Treasure” franchise has developed a large cult following. Following the announcement of a third film, fans shared their excitement for it and for Cage’s return to the franchise.
“YESSSS BEST NEWS EVER,” one fan wrote on Instagram.
“Love these films can’t wait to see this one,” another fan commented.
“I just love national treasure so much I am a huge fan of Jerry bruckheimer and I hope the third movie will do excellent like the first 2 movies,” a third fan posted.
“At this point, National Treasure 3 is the actual national treasure,” one X user wrote.
“Nicolas Cage stealing historical documents again?? Letsgoooo,” wrote another fan.
“This news brought back so many childhood memories. National Treasure was one of the best movies growing up, and Nicolas Cage made it unforgettable. Bringing him back for a third part after all these years is a great move. I just hope the storyline lives up to expectations,” one fan tweeted.
‘National Treasure 3’ comes after decades of waiting
GettySince the second “National Treasure” film premiered in 2007, there have been on-and-off talks about making a third film. Disney+ did release a sequel series, “National Treasure: Edge of History,” in 2022. It featured new and returning cast members. However, Cage, Diane Kruger, and Jon Voight did not reprise their roles in the series. “Edge of History” was ultimately canceled after one season in 2023.
Turteltaub said it took so long to make the third film because of the political climate in the U.S. He explained that, because of the Internet, people take a political stance on everything and pick sides.
“We have to be very careful, but I don’t feel we are allowed to ignore it,” he stated. “I think we have to include that idea in the story somehow without making someone feel put off.”
Right now, it is unclear what the third “National Treasure” movie will be about and which original cast members will appear. But with the script finished and Cage set to return, long-time “National Treasure” fans have something to look forward to in the coming months.
