Embark on a cinematic journey through the shadows of mystery and intrigue with our curated list of 10 thrilling films that revolve around artefacts. These films not only entertain but also delve into the depths of human curiosity, fear, and the supernatural, making them a must-watch for enthusiasts of suspense and mystery. Each film in this collection brings its unique twist to the theme, offering viewers a blend of history, adventure, and spine-chilling suspense.

The Eye of the Needle (1981)
Description: A German spy during WWII uncovers a secret that could change the course of the war, involving a mysterious artefact known as "The Needle."
Fact: The film's title refers to a German spy's code name, and the plot was based on the novel by Ken Follett.


The Mummy (1999)
Description: This film follows adventurer Rick O'Connell as he accidentally awakens an ancient Egyptian priest, Imhotep, who seeks to resurrect his lover using an ancient artefact, the Book of the Dead.
Fact: The film was initially conceived as a direct-to-video release but was upgraded to a theatrical release due to its potential. The iconic scene where Imhotep's face is revealed was done with practical effects.


The Ninth Gate (1999)
Description: A rare book dealer is hired to authenticate a book that supposedly holds the key to summoning the Devil, involving various arcane artefacts.
Fact: Johnny Depp learned to speak French for his role, and the film was shot in various European locations to capture the gothic and mysterious feel.


National Treasure (2004)
Description: Benjamin Franklin Gates, a historian, embarks on a quest to find a treasure hidden by the Founding Fathers, using clues from various historical artefacts.
Fact: The film was inspired by real-life treasure hunts like the Beale ciphers. The Declaration of Independence used in the film was a replica, but it was made with the same materials as the original.


The Da Vinci Code (2006)
Description: Symbologist Robert Langdon and cryptologist Sophie Neveu follow a trail of clues tied to Da Vinci's works, leading to a secret society and a hidden artefact, the Holy Grail.
Fact: Filming was not allowed inside the Louvre, so a replica of the Mona Lisa was created for the scenes set there. The film was shot in various locations including London, Paris, and Scotland.


The Skeleton Key (2005)
Description: A hospice nurse discovers a mysterious key and a set of hoodoo artefacts in an old Louisiana mansion, leading her into a world of dark magic.
Fact: The film was shot on location in New Orleans, enhancing its eerie atmosphere. The mansion used in the film was actually a set built for the movie.


The Prestige (2006)
Description: Two rival magicians in Victorian London engage in a battle of wits and deception, with one magician using a mysterious artefact to perform his greatest trick.
Fact: The film was inspired by real-life magicians and their rivalries. The Tesla machine used in the film was created as a practical effect, not CGI.


The Lost City of Z (2016)
Description: Based on true events, this film follows explorer Percy Fawcett's quest to find an ancient lost city in the Amazon, driven by artefacts and ancient maps.
Fact: The film was shot in the actual locations where Fawcett explored, including the Amazon rainforest, to maintain authenticity.


The Relic (1997)
Description: A deadly creature is unleashed from a South American artefact, causing chaos in the Chicago Museum of Natural History.
Fact: The creature was created using a combination of animatronics and CGI, with the design inspired by the mythological creature, the Kothoga.


The Librarian: Quest for the Spear (2004)
Description: Flynn Carsen, a bookish young man, becomes the guardian of secret artefacts, including the Spear of Destiny, which he must retrieve to prevent its misuse.
Fact: This film spawned a franchise, with two sequels and a TV series. The character of Flynn Carsen was inspired by Indiana Jones.
