Treasure hunt films lead us on adventures we’re seldom able to forget. Today, we’re honoring some of the best treasure hunting movies of all time. While this list is subjective, you’ll find some widely considered best flicks here. So, let’s begin.
15. Sahara (2005)
Sahara is one of the movies that you might have never heard of. But, by the time it ends, you’ll end up thinking, “Why isn’t this famous?” It was one of the projects that succumbed to bad marketing and a bit of a doomed production.
But, besides that, the film itself offers up an outstanding adventure in the titular place Sahara desert. Dirk Pitt (Matthew McConaughey) looks for a battleship called Ship of Death as he hopes to help a WHO Doctor in their research.
14. Uncharted (2022)
Uncharted was one of the most awaited movies in 2022. While it may not have come close to its game counterpart, it still offered one of the best action adventures in the past 3-4 years. Much like in the game, the main character Nathan Drake (Tom Holland), is on a treasure hunt.
After being recruited by Victor Sullivan (Mark Wahlberg), Drake goes to various lengths to find the lost treasure of Ferdinand Magellan. However, he soon faces unwanted competition as other stakeholders lay a claim on the fortune.
13. Three Kings (1999)
Three Kings is one of the most unexpected war movies you’ll ever see. After the Persian Gulf War comes to its conclusion, three soldiers find information about a hidden hoard near the base. However, it’s no ordinary cache, as it’s a massive hoard of gold.
The three soldiers take it upon themselves to retrieve this treasure as their adventure turns into a death-defying mission. But, to this day, this film remains one of the most entertaining treasure hunts you’ll ever see.
12. Mackenna’s Gold (1969)
Mackenna’s Gold is one of the most renowned treasure hunt movies of all time. The recent ratings and critic score may not suggest it, but it’s widely considered a cult classic. This Western begins with a common shootout when the sheriff (Gregory Peck) ends up killing an old chief.
However, treasure hunters soon catch up to him and force him to lead him to the map’s trail. That’s when the treasure hunt begins, and so does a journey that’s widely known as one of the best in Western movies.
11. The Adventures of Tintin (2011)
The Adventure of Tintin was a wild surprise back in 2011. The film sounded like it had a plot too similar to Polar Express. However, the film turned out to be the exact opposite and a remarkable treat for treasure hunt film lovers.
It begins when a Tintin buys a model ship but ends up breaking it. However, he finds a scroll hidden under it, which leads him to the treasure hunt. But, except for any old treasure, this hunt is about an old shipwreck.
10. Monty Python and The Holy Grail (1975)
Monty Python and the Holy Grail is a classic comedy film from 1975 that follows the story of King Arthur and his knights on their quest for the Holy Grail. It stars John Cleese, Graham Chapman, Terry Jones, Michael Palin, Eric Idle, and Terry Gilliam.
The film is known for its witty dialogue, surreal humor, and absurd situations. It has become an iconic cult classic over the years. Monty Python and the Holy Grail is a must-watch for anyone looking for a good laugh alongside a treasure hunt.
9. National Treasure (2004)
National Treasure is an action movie released in 2004. It follows the story of Benjamin Franklin Gates (Nicolas Cage), a historian and amateur cryptologist who is on a quest to find the mythical Templar treasure. The movie is known for its suspense and mystery as Benjamin searches for clues hidden in historical artifacts and documents.
Along the way, he has to outwit his opponents, who are also after the treasure. It is an exciting, action-packed movie that will keep you on the edge of your seat as you follow Benjamin’s journey to uncover the truth behind this mythical treasure.
8. The Da Vinci Code (2006)
The Da Vinci Code is a mystery thriller film directed by Ron Howard, based on the novel of the same name by Dan Brown. The movie follows Robert Langdon, a professor of religious symbology, who is trying to solve a murder mystery while being pursued by police and an albino assassin.
Along the way, he discovers clues to a centuries-old conspiracy and is forced to confront some of Christianity’s most closely guarded secrets. With its complex plot and thrilling action sequences, it has become one of the most popular films in recent years.
7. O Brother, Where Art Thou? (2000)
O Brother, Where Art Thou? is a classic American comedy directed by the Coen Brothers. It follows the story of three escaped convicts who embark on a quest to find the hidden treasure with the help of an eccentric cast of characters.
Along their journey, they encounter all sorts of absurd situations that make for some hilarious moments. The movie is full of witty dialogue, catchy music, and slapstick comedy, making it an enjoyable watch for fans of the genre.
6. The Mummy (1999)
The Mummy is a widely renowned action-packed adventure movie starring Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz, who plays Rick O’Connell and Evelyn O’Connell. It follows the story of a group of explorers who accidentally wake up an ancient evil mummy, Imhotep, from his tomb in Hamunaptra while searching for an ancient treasure.
The explorers must find a way to stop Imhotep before he unleashes chaos and destruction on the world. With thrilling action sequences and its famous special effects, the film is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat!
5. The Hobbit Series (2012-2014)
The Hobbit is an epic fantasy adventure film trilogy directed by Peter Jackson and based on the 1937 novel of the same name by J. R. R. Tolkien. The film follows hobbit Bilbo Baggins (Martin Freeman) as he joins an old friend to help a company of dwarves reclaim their lost Dwarf Kingdom of Erebor, which has been plundered and held since by the dragon Smaug.
Along his journey, Bilbo meets a troupe of characters, including Gandalf the Grey (Ian McKellen), Thorin Oakenshield (Richard Armitage), and a band of Dwarves who help him on his quest against great odds and perils.
4. Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003)
The Pirates of the Caribbean franchise has been one of the most successful film series in history, captivating audiences since 2003 with its thrilling adventures and swashbuckling heroes. But we’re talking about the first installment, The Curse of the Black Pearl.
This treasure hunt sets the tone for the entire franchise as it follows Captain Jack Sparrow and his crew as they search for a cursed treasure. Along the way, they face off against fearsome enemies and discover secrets that could change their lives forever—which leaves you wanting more.
3. The Goonies (1985)
Before they were Samwise Gamgee (Sean Astin) or Thanos (Josh Brolin), they were parts of a cult classic called The Goonies. It’s a classic movie about a group of children who embark on an exciting adventure to find a pirate’s treasure. The Goonies follows the story of Mikey (Astin), Brand (Brolin), Data, and Mouth as they search for the lost treasure of One-Eyed Willy.
Along their journey, they face many challenges and obstacles that test their courage and determination. It is filled with action, comedy, and suspense that will keep viewers entertained throughout the entire movie. That’s what makes it an enjoyable experience for all ages, almost 38 years after its release.
2. The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly (1966)
Image Source: IMDb
The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly is perhaps the most famous Western movie directed by Sergio Leone. It tells the story of three men on a dangerous treasure hunt across the American West. The movie follows the exploits of Blondie (Clint Eastwood), Tuco (Eli Wallach), and Angel Eyes (Lee van Cleef) as they try to outwit each other in their pursuit of plunder.
It has become one of the most renowned treasure hunts in cinema history, with its iconic characters and thrilling action sequences. On top of that, its climactic finale is an enduring classic that has been referenced in countless movies since its release.
1. Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981)
Raiders of the Lost Ark is an iconic movie that has captivated audiences since its release in 1981. This thrilling adventure follows the daring exploits of Indiana Jones as he embarks on a treasure hunt to find the Ark of the Covenant.
Along his journey, he faces off against Nazis and other adversaries who are also after this powerful artifact. The film is filled with action, suspense, and humor that make it a classic for fans all over the world. That’s why it’s widely hailed as perhaps the greatest treasure hunt film of all time.
Honorable Mentions
- Tomb Raider (2018)
- Congo (1995)
- Without a Paddle (2004)
What are your favorite treasure hunting films? Share with us in the comments!
