Cage’s Iconic Line: A Blend of Ridiculous and Reverent
Nicolas Cage, known for his eccentric and often intense acting style, recently shared his thoughts on one of the most memorable lines from the “National Treasure” film series. Speaking with Vanity Fair, Cage highlighted the line where his character, Benjamin Gates, declares his intention to steal the Declaration of Independence. Despite the film’s success and the line’s iconic status, Cage admitted he still finds it “profoundly ridiculous.”
In his words, “How do you take something that is so profoundly ridiculous and really try to sell it, okay? What I like about that scene, just seeing it again for the first time in I don’t know how many years, is I like the positivity of the character. He really believes this.”
The Serious Approach to a Comical Line
Cage’s approach to the scene was to play it with utmost seriousness, avoiding any hint of slapstick comedy. This choice, he believes, is what made the line even more humorous and memorable. “If you played it for laughs, then it’s screwball comedy, and it’s stupid, and it’s not my thing,” Cage stated. He credited the film’s director, Jon Turteltaub, for shooting the scene in a way that gave it a sacred reverence, further adding to its charm and absurdity.
“National Treasure” and Its Cultural Impact
“National Treasure” follows the story of archaeologist and adventurer Ben Franklin Gates on his quest to uncover the treasure of the Knights Templar, leading to a daring plan involving one of America’s most cherished artifacts. Its sequel in 2007, where Gates attempts to disprove a document accusing his grandfather of murdering Abraham Lincoln, also enjoyed massive success. These films have cemented their place in Hollywood lore, combining elements of adventure, history, and Cage’s unique brand of acting.
The Uncertain Future of “National Treasure 3”
Despite the success of the first two “National Treasure” films, the third installment remains in development limbo. Producer Jerry Bruckheimer confirmed earlier this year that the film was still in the works, but no definitive progress has been made. Meanwhile, Disney’s attempt to expand the franchise with the Disney+ series “National Treasure: Edge of History” was short-lived, as the series was canceled after just one season due to poor reception.
Nicolas Cage: An Actor of Many Faces
Nicolas Cage’s career, marked by a range of performances from the dramatic to the absurd, continues to fascinate and entertain audiences. For fans of the actor, revisiting his past works, such as “Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance,” offers a glimpse into the depth and versatility of his craft.
Final Note
Nicolas Cage’s reflection on his iconic line in “National Treasure” offers a window into the actor’s perspective on his work and the fine line between the serious and the ludicrous in filmmaking. As the wait for “National Treasure 3” continues, Cage’s legacy as one of Hollywood’s most unique stars remains as intriguing as ever.
