Movie #310 - Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade

Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade
1989 - Rated PG - 2 hr 7 min
Director: Steven Spielberg
Starring: Harrison Ford, Sean Connery, Alison Doody, John Rhys-Davies, River Phoenix

Raise your hand if this is your favorite Indiana Jones movie.  That's what I thought.

All around, this has the most engaging plot, the best cast (sorry, Karen Allen) and the coolest "prize."  Especially considering the awesome, ancient knight that's guarding it.  Yes, the Nazis are back, but this time Indiana's dad is involved. And his dad is Sean Connery, so it's pretty rad.

Maybe it's because I came into the series late, once all three were already made that I like this best.  I'm sure some of those who watched each come out on its own have differing opinions. I know others who prefer Raiders. Still, Crusade has lots of great lines, some great comedic moments, and the iconic "No ticket" line (which I already mentioned in my review of Air Force One.)

If you like adventure and haven't seen these movies, first of all, what's wrong with you?  Second of all, put them in your Netflix queue already.  Enjoy.

Movie #308 - Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark

Raiders of the Lost Ark
1981 - Rated PG - 1 hr 55 min
Director: Steven Spielberg
Starring: Harrison Ford, Karen Allen, John Rhys-Davies, Alfred Molina

Just what I needed to break things up: an Indiana Jones marathon!

It's nice to watch movies again as an adult that you were familiar with in your childhood.  It's like watching them with a new set of eyes - more jokes make sense, more actors are familiar, and obviously, the plot lines make more sense.  This movie used to be "that movie where Han Solo has a whip" and as I've grown up, I've developed a new appreciation for this classic.

There's not much to say about this, just that it's a classic for a reason.  It's the perfect action/adventure movie, with a touch of romance for our main character.  Lots of witty lines, iconic moments, etc.  The only thing that bothers me is how easily Karen Allen gets herself in trouble.  You could play a drinking game: every time she gets trapped somewhere, drink.  Every time she gets kidnapped, drink. Every time she yells "Indy!", drink.  Those are the only rules you need to get hammered.

In any case, I love this one.  It's the first of a great trilogy and a good, strong introduction to our favorite adventuring professor!