Ah, the thrill of the chase! There's something truly captivating about films where the protagonists embark on a quest for ancient, powerful, or mysterious artefacts. These films not only tickle our sense of adventure but also delve into themes of history, technology, and the very fabric of reality. Here's a curated list of 10 sci-fi gems that will take you on a journey through time, space, and beyond, all in pursuit of artefacts that could change the course of history or even the universe itself.

The Lost City of Gold (1987)
Description: This film, part of the "Jewel of the Nile" series, involves the search for the fabled city of gold, El Dorado. It's an adventure with a touch of the mystical and the unknown.
Fact: The film was shot in Morocco, and the city of gold was created using a combination of practical sets and matte paintings.


Stargate (1994)
Description: This film introduces us to an ancient artefact, the Stargate, which allows travel to other planets. The quest for understanding and harnessing this device's power is central to the plot.
Fact: The Stargate was inspired by a circular stone structure found in Egypt, and the film spawned a successful TV series.


The Fifth Element (1997)
Description: In this visually stunning film, the quest for the four elemental stones and the fifth element, a human, is key to saving the Earth from an ancient evil. The artefacts here are both mystical and technological.
Fact: The film was initially conceived as a comic book, and it took over 20 years for director Luc Besson to bring his vision to the screen.


The Mummy (1999)
Description: While more of an action-adventure, this film involves the search for the Book of the Dead, an artefact with the power to resurrect the dead. It's a thrilling ride with elements of the supernatural.
Fact: The film was inspired by the 1932 film of the same name, but it takes a much more action-oriented approach.


Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (2008)
Description: This film sees our beloved archaeologist, Indiana Jones, on a quest for the Crystal Skull, an artefact with mysterious powers. It's a classic example of a sci-fi adventure where the artefact holds the key to understanding an ancient civilization's secrets.
Fact: The film was originally intended to be released in 2007, but was delayed due to script rewrites. Also, the Crystal Skull was inspired by real-life crystal skulls, though their origins are much debated.


National Treasure (2004)
Description: While not strictly sci-fi, this film involves a treasure hunt for a legendary Templar treasure, which includes artefacts of historical significance. It's a fun, action-packed adventure with a nod to the fantastical elements of history.
Fact: The film was inspired by the book "The Templar Legacy" by Steve Berry, and the treasure map on the back of the Declaration of Independence was a real-life urban legend.


The Da Vinci Code (2006)
Description: Based on Dan Brown's novel, this film involves a quest for the Holy Grail, an artefact with deep historical and religious significance, blending mystery with elements of science and history.
Fact: The film was shot in various locations in France and the UK, including the Louvre, where much of the story takes place.


Transformers: The Last Knight (2017)
Description: This instalment in the Transformers saga involves the search for an ancient artefact that could end the war between Autobots and Decepticons. It's a blend of sci-fi action and artefact hunting.
Fact: The film features a real historical event, the Battle of Bosworth Field, and integrates it into the Transformers' mythology.


Lara Croft: Tomb Raider (2001)
Description: Lara Croft, the iconic adventurer, searches for the Triangle of Light, an artefact with the power to control time. It's a quintessential artefact-hunting adventure with a sci-fi twist.
Fact: Angelina Jolie underwent extensive physical training to portray Lara Croft, including learning to ride a motorcycle and handle weapons.


The Librarian: Quest for the Spear (2004)
Description: This TV movie follows a librarian who must retrieve the Spear of Destiny, an artefact with immense power. It's a light-hearted adventure with a touch of sci-fi and fantasy.
Fact: The film led to a series of sequels and a TV show, showcasing the popularity of the artefact-hunting theme.
