National Treasure 3 Is Back in Development With Nicolas Cage

The project is currently considered "Hollywood real," though Turteltaub cautioned that the unpredictable nature of the industry means production is not yet guaranteed. The director noted that he plans to bring back as much of the original cast as possible, including Nicolas Cage. This update marks a significant shift for a franchise that has remained dormant since the release of National Treasure: Book of Secrets in 2007.

Turteltaub attributed the nearly two-decade delay to the evolving political climate in the United States. He explained that after the original film became a favorite among lawmakers—even prompting a private screening for Congress—the political subtext of the series became increasingly complex to navigate. The creative team is now tasked with addressing these modern realities without alienating the audience. While Cage has previously characterized the premise of stealing the Declaration of Independence as "profoundly ridiculous," he has consistently praised the earnest, serious approach taken by the production team to sell the concept to viewers.