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Older, wiser, but still Indy Before you view "Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull," remember the person you were when you left the series. Remember a simpler day, when our action heroes scoffed at danger and the bullets winged right past them. If you put yourself in that frame of mind, you’ll enjoy this film.Dr. Jones (Harrison Ford) is having his patriotism questioned when he finds out his friend Professor Oxley (John Hurt) is in trouble. It seems an ancient city has a connection to the reason Jones' patriotism has been called into question, and Professor Oxley may have found that city. But Oxley is missing, as is the mother of a brash kid (Shia LaBeouf) who shows up to enlist Dr. Jones’ help.
Those circumstances start a global jaunt that will see Indy facing many enemies, some human and some not. But rest assured, Indy is back in the game and there will be surprises around every corner.
Putting myself in the frame of mind that I mentioned above, I really enjoyed the ride. I wanted my action hero back and I got that, so I feel the film was satisfying. Without question, it could have been better, but this quenched my thirst for more Indy.
Ford returns the swagger of Indiana Jones to the screen. LaBeouf is solid as the new kid on Indy’s block. I love Cate Blanchett, though she seems a bit underutilized here. Despite any shortcomings, the cast members work great as a team and really play off each other well.
The action sequences left my heart pounding, and my breath was heavy on more than one occasion. The stunt sequences brought me back to a simpler time in movies. Sure there are some CG enhancements, but they really seem to be kept to a minimum.
While once skeptical that we could ever revisit this franchise, I’m now happy to say that I can’t wait for another installment. Indy will evolve in the future, but for now … I’m excited. The latest installment takes me back to a simpler time. Indy, we’ve missed you. Welcome back.
Contact the writer at paul@commonguy.com
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