Disney’s “National Treasure 3” In Development
In 2004, Disney’s Touchstone Pictures released “National Treasure”, which told the story of Benjamin Franklin Gates, who is in hot pursuit of a legendary treasure, must steal one of America’s most sacred and guarded documents — the Declaration of Independence — or let it, and a key clue to the mystery, fall into dangerous hands.
It was followed up with a sequel a few years later, and then, back in 2022, Disney+ released a brand new original series called “National Treasure: Edge Of History”, which was the third instalment in the iconic franchise.
Over the years, we’ve heard many rumours that a third film was in development, but its been in development limbo, however, nearly 20 years later, it looks like Nicolas Cage will be returning, as a script for the third film has been approved by Disney.
During a recent episode of the National Treasure Hunt podcast in Philadelphia, the original film’s director, Jon Turteltaub, confirmed that the third “National Treasure” movie is happening.
“I was thinking about mentioning this tonight, I’ll say it tonight. It’s happening. You’re the first people I have said this out loud to. It’s finally real. Now, it’s ‘Hollywood real,’ meaning things can happen. Nic gets hit by a bus, there’s no National Treasure. If I get hit by a bus, there’s probably a National Treasure. Welcome to Hollywood, that’s Hollywood.”
He added that Disney said that the script “sounds like a movie we can make.”
As with any film in early development, it’s unclear who might star in it, when it might go into production or arrive in cinemas or Disney+.
Both “National Treasure” films are available to stream on Disney+, along with the spin-off series, “National Treasure: Edge Of History”.
Roger’s Take: I’ve been a huge fan of this franchise and would love to see Nicolas Cage return for a new adventure, especially as the Disney+ series failed to deliver that same feel. The only thing I’m still wary of is how long the sequel has taken to make; this could still be years away, and I wouldn’t be surprised if development is paused or suspended if things don’t align.
Are you looking forward to the return of this franchise? Let me know on social media!
