“Goonies” for Grown-ups

Substitute Ben Franklin for One-Eyed Willie and the Declaration of Independence for Willie’s map and you have “National Treasure” starring Nicholas Cage. History buffs, conspiracy theorists, and the Freemasons will all find something to latch onto in this clue-laden romp through the American Revolution and beyond. Full of fascinating tidbits and cute one-liners, “Treasure” is just that, a film that entertains and enlightens.

Owing a bit to “Raiders of the Lost Ark,” Cage is just as obsessed as Indiana Jones. The legend of the Knights Templar and their supposed huge pile of treasure, which they hid from the world, becomes his Ark of the Covenant. There is, of course, the requisite beautiful girl with brains and brass who gets pulled into the adventure. Also we have the wisecracking sidekick who keeps the ball rolling and Cage from getting too serious. There’s the father who disapproves of his son’s antics and the gang of “nogoodnicks” hot on their trail.

Not to give too much away, because following this maze of a movie from the Arctic to Washington D.C. where we get a lesson in rare document preservation and protection is half the fun.

Perhaps the previously mentioned formulaic elements are the biggest criticism one can make of this film. Yes, all the characters and many of the situations have been done to death, but the simple fact that they are likable and interesting makes all the difference. “National Treasure” is really a romantic comedy wrapped in a riddle. It’s appropriate for scholars young and old as well. This is the kind of cinematic fare that could spark a young minds interest in history and all things archaic. Great fun with just a touch of book learnin’.