‘National Treasures’, written and directed by Will Wright, is a comedy/drama that blends high-end sophistication with sly, very British wit. The film opens with a stunning sequence: Hella Krause arrives at a private viewing of the British Museum’s special collections, greeted by the ever-composed curator Nina, played by Priyanka Patel. The cinematography by Matt Gentlemen is immaculate, framing every scenes with cinematic precision, while the editing and sound design highten every exchange into something palpable and engaging.
The narrative hinges on Krause’s obsessive interest in a single object, a curiosity that pulls the story back to 1944, during the Second World War. Wright uses this historical thread cleverly, layering tension with humor as the collector’s polite curiosity clashes with Nina’s internal conflict. Timing is key here, and the film lands subtle jokes within dramatic beats effortlessly, keeping the audience on edge.
Hella Krause delivers a commendable performance, while Patel grounds the film with precise reactions that make the collector-curator dynamic endlessly watchable. Dialogue sparkles throughout, capturing the absurdity and elegance of the art world.
‘National Treasures’ is a stylishly crafted short that feels both timeless and daring. From the stunning opening shot to the final moments of tension and humor, Wright demonstrates command over writing, directing, and pacing. Expect a polished, entertaining watch. It is a short that doesn’t take itself too seriously, yet rewards careful viewing while leaving its audience smiling at its boldness. Highly recommended.
