Independence Day Special NEW Episode!

You’ve seen the memes. You’ve heard the line: “I’m gonna steal the Declaration of Independence.” If you’re anything like me, that alone might’ve convinced you National Treasure wasn’t for you. I thought it was going to be overly patriotic, too Disneyfied, or worse—Nicolas Cage screaming about ancient glasses. I was wrong.

In this special July 4th episode, I sit down with the one and only National Treasure superfan, Harry Marks, to dig into the movie’s historical roots, wild character chemistry, and why this film manages to be both brilliantly smart and hilariously dumb—in the best way possible.

We unpack everything from cultural impact and historical accuracy (or lack thereof), to the underrated brilliance of Cage’s quiet sincerity and the thrill of puzzle-box storytelling. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a skeptic like I was, there’s something here for you.

📌 Follow the show, rate it if you loved it, and share it with someone who still thinks The Da Vinci Code is peak treasure cinema.

📖 Check out Harry’s books:

➡️ Cabinet of Curiosities – Buy Here

➡️ Library at the Center of the Earth – Buy Here

For more from Harry, visit: linktr.ee/hcmarks

🗺️ Up for an adventure? Try the Green Mountain Adventure Challenge

00:00 Why Might Someone Not (Think) They’ll Like National Treasure?

05:59 Welcome to the Episode!

08:40 Historical Context and Authenticity

11:28 Character Dynamics and Performances

14:16 Comparisons to Other Films

17:02 Engaging with History and Adventure

19:53 Cultural Impact and Legacy

24:23 Exploring Mystery Genres

28:05 The Evolution of Adventure Films

31:47 Cultural Reflections in Treasure Hunting

35:41 Nicolas Cage's Subtle Performance

40:19 The Impact of Historical Context on Film

49:23 Historical Accuracy in Film: A Double-Edged Sword

53:41 The Art of Storytelling: Balancing Fact and Fiction

58:48 Casting the Next Nicolas Cage: The Future of Movie Stars

01:03:07 Cinematography and Set Design: Crafting Visual Narratives

01:05:48 Favorite Scenes: Moments that Captivate