Director Jon Turteltaub, known for the "National Treasure" film series, recently indicated that the country's political landscape played a significant role in the extensive delay of the third installment and suggested that these contemporary issues would likely be incorporated into the upcoming sequel's narrative.
"National Treasure 3" Script Confirmed
Speaking in Philadelphia during a live recording of the "National Treasure Hunt" podcast, Turteltaub verified to attendees that "National Treasure 3" is now "finally real," with a completed script that has received approval from both himself and Disney. This confirmation follows years of speculation and anticipation from fans of the adventure franchise.
The original "National Treasure" film debuted in 2004, followed by its sequel, "National Treasure: Book of Secrets," three years later in 2007. Both movies, which star Nicolas Cage, were directed by Turteltaub.
Political Climate and Production Delays
During the discussion, Turteltaub elaborated on the substantial hiatus between the second and third films, attributing it in part to the increasingly polarized political climate in the United States. He recounted an exchange with former Republican House Speaker Kevin McCarthy as an example of the prevailing sentiment.
He, like others, were surprised that Democrats made that movie because Democrats can’t be patriots. That’s the thought and it just got worse. And on the Democrats’ side: ‘Oh, Republicans, they just want to keep stuff to themselves, they hate everybody, they want to kill everyone, and blah blah blah.'
While specific plot details for the third film were not disclosed, Turteltaub expressed his belief that the movie would inevitably need to confront modern political dynamics.
We have to be very careful, but I don’t feel we are allowed to ignore it. I think we have to include that idea in the story somehow without making someone feel put off.
Hollywood Realities and Industry Perspectives
For several years, Turteltaub and producer Jerry Bruckheimer have hinted at the development of a third film featuring Nicolas Cage, although physical production has yet to commence. Turteltaub humorously acknowledged the unpredictable nature of Hollywood during the podcast, remarking, "things could happen" that might alter plans.
Now, it’s Hollywood real, meaning things could happen. 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.
An industry observer, identified as Toto, commented on Turteltaub's remarks, suggesting the director accurately assessed the prevailing views within Hollywood regarding patriotism and political divisions. Toto described it as "a sad sign of the times" that a franchise centered on American history could be perceived as "problematic or challenging" when it should not be.
Toto further suggested that such a franchise would ideally remain apolitical. However, he noted that Turteltaub's comments propose a potential approach to navigate the current political chasm while still delivering a fresh narrative. He speculated that if this delicate balance is successfully achieved, the third film could potentially become the most successful installment in the series.