Rating of
3/4
Skull Fractures at Times but Indy Spirit Prevails
Chris Kavan - wrote on 05/25/08
Sure, Indy is older, his punches are a little slower the special effects a little slicker (and sometimes totally irrelevant) but the despite the changes that sense of adventure still rings true and it still feels like Indy, though it falls short of the charm of the original.
A lot works and a lot falls flat with this film, with little middle ground. The CGI is huge factor. Cute animals should not be in this universe, cute CGI animals even less so. The ants, however, can stay - nothing says danger like thousands of manic bugs intent on devouring you.
The new characters work, for the most part. Shia LaBeouf makes a good counterpoint to the "old" Indy. His Wild One bravado strains at times, but overall he's a good addition to the series. Also working out is Cate Blanchett, though her accent is a bit much. Still, the bowl-haired, steely-eyed Russian is an interesting choice of villain, but when she pulls out a sword, watch out. I also appreciate the nod they game to the late Denholm Elliott (aka Marcus Brody) and the MIA Sean Connery.
Indiana also benefits from the inclusion of Karen Allen. The banter between Marion and Indy is always fun, the it's when these two share the screen that I felt the most connected to the original Raiders. I wish she would have shown up sooner in the film, though I can see why they kept her in reserve.
The story itself is interesting, if somewhat confusing. After the Holy Grail, what can possibly top that? Well, apparently you have to get a bit extraterrestrial. It's bigger, but not better. You can reach for the stars, but if you reach too far, you'll just end up falling on your face. As entertaining as it is, I would have preferred something a little more... well grounded.
Still, all squabbles aside this is a great summer movie, a worthy addition to the series and may breath new life into the venerable franchise. Still, next time they better leave the monkeys on the cutting room floor.
