It ain't the years, it's the mileage and the plot

I love the Indiana Jones trilogy. Love it! So of course, I went and saw the newest Indy movie this past Saturday. I went dreading that this newest chapter would tarnish the previous films.

Raiders of the Lost Ark was the FIRST movie I ever saw - ever. I was an infant and have no recollection of seeing it but never-the-less it was my first movie. The Last Crusade was the first "adult" movie my parents allowed me to watch after debating whether or not I was old enough (I was 10) to not be traumatized by watching a man disintegrate. I wasn't and the movie quickly became an old standby that got lots of viewing. Why am I telling you all this? Because I want you to know that I REALLY love the genre, character, and stories of the original three. Even Temple of Doom, which is a much darker story. And this is why Kingdom of the Crystal Skull broke my heart...

***Spoilers below, skip down to continue spoiler-free***


So if you have read much if any about the plot via Internet gossip or movie reviews, you may already know that Shia LeBeouf's character is Indy's son by way of the lead actress from Raiders of the Lost Ark, who also make an appearance in this film. The first 20 or so minutes are pure Indiana Jones, full of quips, action, and suspense. Everything from then on is "okay" until the movies ends with a big, "really?" It's about aliens people. ALIENS!! I suppose I shouldn't have been too surprised--Spielberg does have a fascination with space travelers. But still it was disappointing.


*****End spoilers*****

The acting, special effects, location, and costume design were all superb but the story was a big let down. In the words of my friend Dave "I hope Harrison Ford was paid a lot of money." It was nice to see one of my childhood heroes don his fedora once again, but wow was it a let down. So be forewarned it's a big bag of meh. Maybe worth watching for nostalgia but not much else. If you never liked Indiana Jones then save your money and see Iron Man. Iron Man kicks ass...

but that's just my opinion