Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade

Ever since George Lucas first pitched Raiders of the Lost Ark to Steven Spielberg back in 1977, they had intended to create a trilogy. After the mixed reactions to Temple of Doom, Spielberg decided to cap it all off with an adventure that invoked the original film in spirit and tone. Considering how closely Ford’s iconic character deliberately resembles James Bond, it is fitting that Sean Connery was cast as Indy’s father.

This film begins with a flashback to young Indy being separated from his Boy Scout group, and discovering a band of thieves who are stealing a priceless artifact. In a scenario ripped almost straight from a Hardy Boys adventure, he pursues them in an extended chase, where we discover how he first learned to use a bullwhip, where his phobia of snakes came from, etc. Indy is unable to catch them, and returns home to his father, who is occupied with researching historical artifacts and cannot be bothered.

Years later, in present day, Indy learns that Henry Jones, Sr., has disappeared while searching for the Holy Grail, which is said to be the cup Jesus Christ used at the Last Supper. Its power is similar to the Ark of the Covenant before it; the Grail grants eternal life. Once again, the Nazis are also pursuing this artifact, and just like Raiders, there are more car chases. There is yet another romantic interest involved as well–this one played by Alison Doody. As with Kate Capshaw’s shrill damsel-in-distress from the previous film, it remains true that this one does not have the same chemistry with Ford as Karen Allen did.

Yes, it all can feel a bit familiar by now, but the best part of The Last Crusade is easily the father-son dynamic between Indy and Henry. The Nazis–quite literally–have to keep up with the Joneses. The chase sequences this time involve boats, tanks and planes. The underground setpieces are wonderfully creative, whether our heroes are scouring rat-infested catacombs, or trying to solve a series of supernatural puzzles in booby-trapped caverns. John Williams’ score is once again terrific.

By casting Connery, Spielberg and Lucas have brought something to these films that has been missing: an emotional core. It is one thing to see Indy globe-trotting with a beautiful woman, but at the end of the day, it is best to see a family member is helping him out. This trilogy capper might not be as fresh, but it is entertaining, fun, and even heartwarming. Or as Henry puts it, “Sharing your adventures is an interesting experience.”

Rated PG-13

2 hours, 7 minutes