Treasure of the four crowns (1983)

Treasure of the Four Crowns is a 1983 action -adventure film by Ferdinando Baldi. The film is a Raiders of the Lost Ark ripoff. It delivers a treasure-hunting quest filled with over-the-top stunts, elaborate set pieces, and 3D objects flying directly at the audience. While it didn’t achieve the blockbuster status of its inspiration, the film remains a cult curiosity for fans of vintage 3D cinema and campy adventure films.
Plot
The story of treaure of the four crowns follows J.T. Striker (played by Tony Anthony), a rugged mercenary hired to retrieve two of four mystical crowns hidden in a heavily guarded castle. The crowns, when united, are said to grant their wielder immense power. Striker assembles a team of skilled thieves and adventurers to pull off the heist, but they soon discover that the crowns are protected by supernatural forces. As the mission unfolds, the group faces deadly traps and betrayals. It ends with a climactic confrontation against the villainous Brother Jonas, a cult leader
seeking to harness the crowns’ power for himself.
Notable Scenes
One of the most memorable aspects of Treasure of the Four Crowns is its use of 3D gimmicks. Throughout the movie, 3D objects are hurled at the screen in an exaggerated manner. The opening sequence, in which Striker navigates a booby-trapped cave reminiscent of Indiana Jones, sets the tone for the film’s mix of adventure and spectacle. Another standout moment is the final showdown, featuring a supernatural explosion of energy as the crowns’ power is unleashed, complete with floating bodies and fiery effects that were clearly designed for maximum 3D impact.
Making of the Movie
The film was shot using the Arrivision 3D process, a technology that attempted to improve the often-criticized 3D techniques of the era. Tony Anthony, who also co-wrote and co-produced the film, had previously found success with Comin’ at Ya! (1981), another 3D adventure. Hoping to replicate that film’s popularity, the production team emphasized visual spectacle over narrative depth, resulting in a movie that prioritized action over storytelling. Despite the effort put into the 3D technology, the film’s low budget, uneven pacing, and sometimes clunky special effects limited its mainstream appeal.
Our View on the Movie
While Treasure of the Four Crowns is far from a cinematic masterpiece, it remains an entertaining relic of its time. The film’s campy charm, ambitious (if not always successful) action sequences, and exaggerated 3D effects make it an amusing watch for fans of B-movie adventures. Though it lacks the polish and storytelling finesse of Raiders of the Lost Ark, it still offers a fun, nostalgic ride for those who appreciate its unique mix of spectacle and schlock. If you enjoy cheesy ‘80s adventure films, this one is worth a watch—especially if you can experience it in its original 3D format.