“National Treasure,” the new feature from director Jon Turteltaub, is a mystery where national treasures from the Declaration of Independence to the Liberty Bell are used as clues in what might be the biggest hidden treasure of all time.

Benjamin Franklin Gates is a third generation treasure hunter. He believes in the stories that his grandfather, John Adams Gates, told him about the Free Masons, and the “supposed hidden treasure,” treasure that no one but Gates seems to believe exists.

Gates and his accomplices have to gain access to clues one by one by using one historical artifact after another. As they get closer to the answer so does Ian Howe, Gates’ former partner who wants the treasure himself and will do whatever it takes to get what he’s after. And what seems to be the final clue is just the beginning.

Nicolas Cage’s portrayal of Ben Gates channels a lot of Indiana Jones. He’s that same imperfect hero who does well in spite of himself. Cage works well in these confines.

The supporting cast is effective. Sean Bean really brings the “creep out” as Ian Howe. Jon Voight, Harvey Keitel and Diane Kruger all turn in quality, if somewhat stunted, performances.

As expected, the visual effects are top notch. With the historical subject matter it provides a unique bond with the past.

It may not be the best film of the season, but one thing National Treasure will do is cause many people to ponder just what our national treasures are.

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John Malgesini is an educator at Umatilla High School.