I really enjoyed this movie--it's one of those that's easy to write a review about, because there's very little not to like. In fact, I would say it was just about perfectly-delivered, and in league with the Bourne Ultimatum, yet standing (very) tall in its own genre. A feel-good movie encompassing 2 continents, 500 years of history, conspiracy theories, and, of course, multiple locations in the good ole U. S. of A. And the acting is just-right, and not ostentatious or flaccid.

The movie begins with Cage being down on his luck, having been kicked out (and dumped) by his girlfriend, and apparently not having a steady source of income. So what does a fellow do in a situation like this? Why, he moves in with his dad! His code-slinging partner, meanwhile, has authored a book, tagged as a collection of conspiracy theories, and he's also been cast as the "assistant" of Cage (and frequent mistaken for, and dismissed because of the inequality). He's virtually ignored during a book signing, and his Ferrari is towed away for non-payment of taxes. The tension of this misrepresentation (as well as even his closest friends having not even read his book yet) is great fuel, as it ends up containing important clues in the course of the film, steadily shoring up his importance and esteem.

The conflict evolves as a mysterious figure appears at a seminar being given by Cage, claiming to have a missing portion of an historically important document, allegedly signed by the co-conspirators of Abraham Lincoln's assassination. This revelation purports that a "Gates" (a direct ancestor of Cage's character), had signed this document, and this turns him (and his entire lineage) into turncoats and assassins overnight, because the piece appears to be authentic, perfectly aligning with its former mate. This is front-page news everywhere, the next day, enraging Cage and his dad, who set out to find the truth of the matter.

Cage and his "sidekick" break into his ex-girlfriend's apartment, to use her infra-red scanner to analyze the document. She returns home with a date, finding them out. This ends well-enough, however, because he promises her the "Boston Tea Tables," in exchange for her help. They end up finding clues that lead them (sans the girlfriend) to Paris, France, examining one of the original Statues of Liberty, and later, to London, in pursuit of a new, incredibly huge cache of treasure. A twist occurs, however, as the girlfriend, having learned of this quest, surprises him in London. A third party learns of this mission and, in the tradition of the prequel, trail them and try to extract the clues, after the fact of the investigative work is done.

The balance of the movie unfolds in a creative unfurling of epic proportions. I won't give it all away, but the reactions of his partners (which now include his dad) when he proposes to "kidnap the president" of the United States, is hilarious, and destined to become, both, a classic, and a "repeat-motif." You'll have to watch the movie to see how his plan is implemented, and I think you'll be thoroughly-entertained.

The cast delivers this movie perfectly, with solid characterizations. Cage's wit easily convinces the audience of his credentials as an up-and-coming, modern historian, causing one to suspend reality, and the on-location footage and action in London transported me there (and also made me want to catch the next flight out to see it in person). It follows seamlessly from the first installment, and continues to deliver great adventure. In fact, I would like to hurry out and get a great metal detector, and go and scour the Earth, looking for my own treasure, even more so, as a result of seeing this film. It made me feel the wide-eyed wonder (and hope) of a child, while simultaneously placating my hunger for witty, grown-up humor. There are also 2 non-competing, rocky romantic rehookups (how's THAT for alliterative non-sequitirs?), but you'll have to view it yourself, and tell me how warm it made you feel! You'll also want to later own it, on HD-DVD.

We watched it with our 3 year-old daughter and nephew, and there was only 1 slightly steamy scene. The violence wasn't extreme (mostly non-fatal gunfire), and they seemed to enjoy (or at least tolerate) it.

Here are a few of my other movie reviews...

"Wanted" is What U Want Nothing More. No Spoilers
The Joker is "One Sick Puppy!!!"The Dark Knight
This Movie is PERFECT for Our Times!(Iron Man)
Black Snake Moan---VERY PROVOCATIVE!
Quite a Thrill Ride, Even for Non-fans! (Transformers)
Shrek is BAAAACK!!! (Shrek the 3rd)
Part-Comedy, and Part Thriller (Hot Fuzz)
The Bourne "Realization"-- WHAT A RIDE!!!
The Core--A Witty and Inventive End-of-the-World Adventure!
Did You Know that P.S. Also Means Post-Supernatural?
Jet Li is the Dragon Emperor in latest Mummy Installment
Would You Be Afraid of A Bully Named "Cloverfield?" (Horror)



Recommended:
Yes

Viewing Format: DVD
Video Occasion: Good for Groups
Suitability For Children: Suitable for Children up to Age 4