The fifth film in the Indiana Jones franchise will be released in June 2023, returning Harrison Ford to the lead role. Unlike the previous ones, this film will not be directed by Steven Spielberg, nor will the screenplay by George Lucas, responsible for all the creative direction of the series. However, the cast promises to bring new interesting, such as Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Mads Mikkelsen and Antonio Banderas. While we look forward to this new production, it is worth remembering the previous successes of the saga.
Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark
Originally titled only ‘Raiders of the Lost Ark’, it was a box office phenomenon and became an instant classic, leading to the creation of one of cinema’s most successful franchises. The plot is set in 1936 and follows the adventures of the archaeologist and explorer Indiana Jones on his mission to find the Ark of the Covenant, a biblical object with supernatural powers.
Jones is hired by the US government to find the artifact before the Nazis, who are also after it. This adventure takes the protagonist from Nepal to Egypt, going through several exciting and dangerous situations, culminating in a final battle for possession of the Ark.
The film features an outstanding cast. In addition to Harrison Ford (Han Solo in the Star Wars series), who shines as an iconic protagonist, we have Karen Allen (Starman) as the fearless Marion Ravenwood, Indiana’s love interest. Paul Freeman (The Night of Terror, The Colony) plays a French archaeologist who rivals Jones in the search for the Ark of the Covenant. John Rhys-Davies (the dwarf Gimli, from the Lord of the Rings trilogy) is Indiana’s charismatic Egyptian friend.
Denholm Elliott (Switching Balls) plays the curator of the US National Museum of Archaeology. Ronald Lacey (Red Sonja) rounds out the cast as Major Toht, the Nazi officer who is Belloq’s right-hand man.
Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom
The second installment in the series also did well at the box office but generated mixed reviews when it was released. It’s a whimsical sequel, with a darker atmosphere and a more violent approach. The plot takes place before the first film, in 1935, when Indiana and his companions are forced to land in a village in India after fleeing a burning plane.
There they discover that the population is suffering from the disappearance of their children, taken to work in the mines of precious stones. Indiana Jones offers to help find the children and discovers they are being used for human sacrifice in an ancient temple.
In the cast, Harrison Ford returns as Indy. Alongside him is Willie Scott, played by Kate Capshaw, a spoiled and somewhat self-absorbed American singer. Ke Huy Quan (Oscar winner for Best Supporting Actor for Everything Everywhere at Once) brings to life Short Round, a brave Chinese orphan who becomes an invaluable ally to Indiana Jones. The film also stars celebrated Indian actor Amrish Puri as the terrifying villain Mola Ram.
Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade
The third film features a lighter and more entertaining tone than its predecessor and once again led the franchise at the box office. The plot takes place after the events of the first film, but begins with a prologue showing an adventure from the youth of Indiana Jones. Years later, the archaeologist embarks on a quest to find the Holy Grail, the sacred cup supposedly used by Jesus Christ at the Last Supper, accompanied by his father, Professor Henry Jones. Along the way, they face dangerous Nazis led by the ruthless Colonel Vogel.
In addition to Harrison Ford, some actors return to reprise their characters, such as John Rhys-Davies and Denholm Elliott. As a novelty, we have in the role of the young Indiana Jones, the hitherto promising River Phoenix (Conta Comigo).
Sean Connery (the legendary actor who brought Agent 007 to life) plays Dr. Henry Jones. Alison Doody plays an archaeologist who joins Indiana and Henry in their search for the Holy Grail, but who may have ulterior motives. Julian Glover (An Everlasting Grave) plays an art collector funding Indiana and Henry’s expedition, and Michael Byrne plays the story’s villain.
Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull
Released nineteen years later, the fourth film in the franchise was also a financial success, showcasing the impact the character had on popular culture throughout the period. Set in the 1950s, Indiana is asked by a young rebel, Mutt Williams, to help in the search for a mystical and ancient crystal skull.
Along the way, Indy meets old acquaintances and faces new enemies, including Soviet agents led by agent Irina Spalko. Together, Indiana and Mutt face deadly challenges and uncover startling secrets as they try to keep the Crystal Skull from falling into the wrong hands. The film closes with a surprising final act.
Harrison Ford returns as Indy. He is joined by Shia LaBeouf (Transformers), who plays a young biker who becomes his ally and discovers a surprising bond with the protagonist. It also features Cate Blanchett (Blue Jasmine) as the Soviet agent and John Hurt (O Portal do Paraíso) as Harold Oxley, an archaeologist friend of Indiana Jones who discovers information about the location of the Crystal Skull. Karen Allen returns to the franchise and helps with the search for the Crystal Skull.
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Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
