The script for "National Treasure 3" is complete, but director Jon Turteltaub believes the film will need to address contemporary politics. Turteltaub confirmed that the script has been finalized and approved by him and Disney, marking a significant step forward for the long-anticipated sequel.
The first "National Treasure" was released in 2004, followed by "National Treasure: Book of Secrets" in 2007, both directed by Turteltaub. The extended gap between films, Turteltaub suggested, was partly due to the increasingly polarized political landscape.
He recounted an interaction with former Republican House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, who, along with others, expressed surprise that Democrats would be involved in a film about patriotism. Turteltaub noted that such perceptions have intensified, with differing viewpoints on patriotism between political parties becoming more pronounced.
"We have to be very careful, but I don't feel we are allowed to ignore it," Turteltaub said regarding the political climate. "I think we have to include that idea in the story somehow without making someone feel put off."
While details about the film's plot remain scarce, Turteltaub indicated that the creative team is aiming to navigate the inclusion of political themes delicately. Producer Jerry Bruckheimer and Turteltaub have spoken about a potential third film starring Nicolas Cage for years, though production has yet to commence.
Film critic Christian Toto commented on the situation, stating that while revisiting established franchises for nostalgia is a common Hollywood practice, the prospect of incorporating politics into "National Treasure" is disappointing. Toto suggested that a franchise centered on U.S. history should ideally remain apolitical. He added that if the filmmakers can strike a delicate balance in addressing the current political divide, it could potentially make the film the most successful in the series.