John Krasinski & Natalie Portman's upcoming Apple TV+ movie could satisfy National Treasure 3 fans while they wait

It’s been almost 20 years since the premiere of National Treasure: Book of Secrets in 2007. Although Disney attempted to breathe life into the franchise with the 2022 spinoff series National Treasure: Edge of History, we still do not have National Treasure 3.

Globetrotting, clue-deciphering historical thrill-seekers have been waiting for Cage’s Gates and captivating American myths interlaced with clever heists.

With no confirmed release date, National Treasure 3 is placed under “in development,” which means we’re still waiting. But it seems the wait might get easier than before thanks to Apple TV+ and their upcoming movie Fountain of Youth.

Fountain of Youth feels like a National Treasure movie — in all the right ways

National Treasure: Book of Secrets (Source: Jio Hotstar)

Fountain of Youth has already burst into the limelight and is being compared to National Treasure due to their overlapping themes. It is directed by Guy Ritchie and features John Krasinski and Natalie Portman.

Both movies are centered around high-intensity hunts for legendary objects which are historically rooted, and both narratives are framed using family drama, clever puzzles, and a mix of mystery, fantasy, and action.

Krasinski portrays a witty art thief, Luke, who gets dragged into a ferocious global chase for the fabled Fountain of Youth. Portman plays Charlotte, Luke’s sister, who embodies the archetype of the reluctant believer — much like the ice queen daughter of the protagonist in the National Treasure films.

Museum heists, bickering siblings, cleverly disguised priceless artifacts begging to be stolen, humor blended with history — every formulaic element that National Treasure fans can’t get enough of is present in the movie's trailer.

A fresh take with franchise potential

What makes Fountain of Youth different is the tone and approach of the film with Guy Ritchie's directorial flair and a cast overflowing with charm and chemistry.

While National Treasure was heavily centered on American history, Fountain of Youth appears to have a more expansive, even global perspective on historic mythology. The film does take on a more fun, yet gritty tone with Luke as an ethically flexible art thief which could attract an older demographic.

Just like National Treasure, Fountain of Youth has the potential to kickstart a new franchise. Apple TV+ seems keen on more than a one-off film, considering the strong supporting cast which includes Eiza González and Domhnall Gleeson.

If the initial installment resonates with audiences, it could set the stage for a new series of epic adventures capturing the world — perhaps even before National Treasure 3 is released in theaters.

Familiar tropes with a modern edge

Fountain of Youth's incorporation of modern elements into its classic adventure narrative is perhaps its most invigorating aspect. Viewers will enjoy the classic themes like:

Inter-family, reluctantly agreed upon collaborations
Historical clues contain elusive hints
Competition to be the first to uncover a secret location
Clever dialogue with light-hearted comedy infused throughout

The self-aware humor Fountain of Youth has is apparent throughout the trailer. The intelligent character writing, alongside familiarity with the genre tropes—all hinted in the trailer—has the potential to turn Fountain of Youth into more than just a National Treasure imitation.

The wait might just get easier

While diehard fans remain hopeful for Cage's reprisal of the role of Ben Gates, Fountain of Youth instead offers an exhilarating option that still captures the same spirit. With its clever turns, historical enigmas, and family-oriented narrative, the film seems ready to aid those yearning for a renewed treasure-hunting expedition.

Regardless of whether Fountain of Youth transforms into the next great adventure franchise, it’s evident that Apple TV is trying to capitalize on the underlying potential that lies within the historical adventure genre, and for the time being, that is precisely what the audience desires.