National Treasure (2004)

The page identifies this as a review but does not expose the critic’s verdict. The paywall also hides what the critic singles out for praise or complaint.

The review’s verdict cannot be determined because its article text is unavailable. The metadata describes a treasure map hidden in the Declaration of Independence, but offers no evaluative detail.

Freer finds the film unsuccessful at combining its historical mystery, conspiracy thriller and action-adventure elements. He particularly faults Nicolas Cage’s lifeless performance and the limp action sequences.

The review finds the film slick but uninvolving, and far inferior to Indiana Jones. It praises Nicolas Cage’s charm and Sean Bean’s charismatic performance, while faulting the familiar plotting and much of the supporting cast.

Schager dismisses the film as a lazy, tedious adventure that takes its preposterous plot too seriously. He singles out Cage’s smug performance and the score’s mechanical attempts to manufacture suspense as especially damaging.

Thomas finds the film a hokey, sluggish compromise, though its plot earns some curiosity. He praises the engaging Declaration heist and Diane Kruger’s spark.

Bradshaw finds the film outrageously silly, though occasionally amusing. He singles out Nicolas Cage’s amiable performance and the adventure’s convoluted conspiracies.

Rabin finds the adventure tedious, slackly paced, and unable to embrace its own absurdity. He singles out Cage’s dull, low-energy performance as a particular disappointment.

Foundas finds the film long-winded and ineffective, with neither its serial-style suspense nor its action delivering excitement. He singles out the underwhelming set pieces, especially the Declaration of Independence heist, as a key disappointment.

The critic calls the film boring and excessively tame. Jon Voight is singled out as the only bright spot, while the rest of the cast and the clues are criticized.