Griffin Sauter

Objectively the single greatest film achievement of 2007, National Treasure Book of Secrets represents the apex of Nicholas Cage's acting prowess. Not only is this film smart and witty, it sustains a streak of silly, well-timed comic relief scenes that lighten the mental load placed upon audiences. As someone who is sick and tired of films that take themselves too seriously, this movie is a breath of fresh air! You will laugh and cry, sometimes within the same minute as Ben Gates declares, "I'm going to kidnap the President of the United States." Such a ridiculous statement proves true as Ben carries out his plan successfully, snubbing the naysayers and pesky Secret Service and FBI on his tail in the process! A veritable thriller, this film's heights of cinematic mastery happened in sync with the economic heights of 2007, and as we know, it was only downhill from there.

This movie demands rewatching and is, ironically, one of the most memorable thrillers I've ever seen. The feeling this movie provides once the viewers put the pieces of the tragic plot together is beautifully depressing. The symbolism one can draw from the story blew me away. A masterpiece.