Reviews of Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark

Raiders of the Lost Ark

Posted : 3 months, 1 week ago on 30 June 2008 04:22 (A review of Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark)

Spielberg, Lucas, and Ford team up to recreate the pulp fiction and serials of a by-gone era. Nazis aren't really a serious threat, so much as a collective menace that our hero can take down with a smirk, a wisecrack, a lot of luck, and a trusty bullwhip. Karen Allen as Marion Ravenwood is, was, and always shall be the perfect Indiana Jones female. The chemistry and antagonism Ford and Allen have is perfection. Speaking of Ford has any actor before or sense had so many iconic film roles? Seriously the man's been Indiana Jones, Jack Ryan, Han Solo, and Deckard. Indiana Jones might be the most relatable of the bunch though. He reacts how we would -- you know you'd shoot the guy with a huge sword and forgo the big Hollywood fight -- and wisecracks like we would -- at some point everyone has uttered that they're "too old for this." Lord knows that I have. Totally different circumstances I admit, but similar feelings. Oh, yeah, plus there's that whole thing about the amount of silly fun you have while watching Jones escape a giant boulder, angry natives, snakes (why did it have to be snakes?), ex-girlfriends, and lots of Nazis. Lots and lots and lots of Nazi. Oh, and the wraith of God.

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Superb adventure movie!

Posted : 4 months, 3 weeks ago on 22 May 2008 06:25 (A review of Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark)

"For nearly three thousand years man has been searching for the lost ark. It's not something to be taken lightly. No one knows its secrets. It's like nothing you've ever gone after before."

The Indiana Jones films became the most influential adventure films in cinematic history. The films made their mark on the genre and still influence the way adventure films are made to this day. What's the allure of the series? Put rather simply, all the Indiana Jones films impeccably merge action, exhilarating adventure, dazzling locations, marvellous humour and a mixture of great characters. Raiders of the Lost Ark is the first instalment in the highly acclaimed Indiana Jones series, and still the superior film. The elegance and class of this movie is so far unrivalled and unsurpassed even after several decades.

Set in 1936 on the eve of World War II, Dr. Indiana Jones (Ford) is a renowned archaeologist and a famed adventurer. Jones grows tired of lecturing students at a university; instead he adores trekking through the jungle touting a whip and a gun while searching for ancient artefacts. After an incredibly memorable opening sequence set in Africa, Indy is hired by the United States government to investigate the possible existence of the 'Ark of the Covenant'; an ancient relic that appears to be the cause of strange doings by the Nazis. Indy is pitted against rival archaeologist René Belloq (Freeman) who is also searching for this illustrious ark that has been nothing but myth and legend for centuries.

This fascinating story is merely the beginning as the film rapidly moves to numerous different locations around the globe from Nepal to Cairo.

Harrison Ford is unreservedly perfect for the principal role of Indiana Jones. Ford possesses that certain look about him that suits the role of both an adventurer and a professor. His dialogue is delivered extraordinarily, and his on screen magnetism is one of the film's highest points. Ford has all the wit and appeal: the character of Indiana Jones is the essential embodiment of an adventure hero that encompasses all the qualities and the charisma that makes him one of the best action heroes of all time (as voted on several occasions). Ford is partnered with the equally charismatic Karen Allen. Playing Indy's love interest, this isn't the usual clichéd damsel in distress who can't fend for herself. On top of this there's a remarkable performance by John Rhys-Davis, and unforgettable performances from both Paul Freeman and Ronald Lacey.

Steven Spielberg's direction is magnificent. This focused directing and the lavish cinematography are qualities rarely seen in contemporary adventure movies. I particularly loved the old school effects and the elaborate sets. With such gorgeous images on the screen for every second of the film's duration, it effectively moves from one memorable scene to the next.

The opening artefact hunt is still my favourite film opening of all time. Not to mention all the other memorable scenes - the bar fight, the plane scene, the snake pit, the truck chase, the ship battle, the final showdown...it's impossible to spot a dull second amongst the action and adventure. The outlandish stunts are a requirement for an adventure film of this calibre. The filmmakers deliver a never-ending supply.

The film is only made better by the accompanying exciting music by John Williams. The classic Indiana Jones theme is still my favourite movie theme of all time! The exhilarating action is only made better by the triumphant, invigorating music.

The special effects delightfully hold up even after all these years. With filmmaking technology forever advancing I am pleased and happy to see such terrific old school effects that still look mighty impressive.

When I was a youngster I remember watching Raiders of the Lost Ark on various occasions. The first three Indiana Jones films were an essential part of my childhood. Now that I've aged and matured I still love these original three films tremendously. This is unquestionably one of the best movies of all time! Followed by several sequels beginning with Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom (this is actually a prequel).

10/10

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exciting

Posted : 5 months, 2 weeks ago on 27 April 2008 11:16 (A review of Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark)

The first and the best of the Indiana Jones trilogy, it has everything needed to justify watching it every year: the iconic but intellectual hero, the adventure and the chases, the epic spectacle, John Williams’ outstanding score, and sheer excitement throughout!

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1 is aways da best

Posted : 6 months ago on 7 April 2008 02:28 (A review of Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark)

like they say part 1 is aways da best
this indiana jones is the best on (an thats a fact) and it is cool and its funny because its is PG abd its a gore but cares and the movie is neet cause it has a lot of action then the others
this one is cooler sweeter and all that stuff but i recamond that you should watch this you will like it

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Simply the best

Posted : 1 year, 1 month ago on 19 August 2007 09:05 (A review of Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark)

As a child I wanted to be Indiana Jones, going off on some adventure, saving the day from evil forces. Back then I preferred Temple of Doom but having re-watched the series as an adult, nothing can beat Raiders of the Lost Ark in terms of story, humor, score and outrageous stunts.

From the opening sequence of the Paramount logo turning into an actual mountain to the closing credits, Raiders takes you on an action-packed ride. I love the way this film was shot - the use of silhouettes (the sequence in Nepal is one highlight) gives me shivers each time I see it. It's plain to see that all involved brought their talent to the table in this movie.

A classic for all time.

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