The movies of Steven Spielberg: Part III

This will be my last look at the science-fiction fantasy movies of Steven Spielberg. Today I will examine the Indiana Jones franchise. I would call the Indiana Jones franchise fantasy films because of their dealing with both aliens and the supernatural.

This franchise was the coming together of two Über-Geeks, Steven Speilberg and George Lucas. The series stars Harrison Ford and with his appearance in the Star Wars saga along with this franchise he became certified superstar and his career took off. There are four films in the franchise and I own three of them.

Lucas said that these movies were an homage to the old serial films of the 30s and 40s. One of the things I really enjoy about them is that aspect of these movies. There is a lot of Errol Flynn in Indiana Jones. These movies are a lot of escapist fun and do not take themselves too seriously.

I think Spielberg really captured that sense of adventure in this franchise. Even though the last movie came out a couple of years ago, I can only imagine that if this franchise had been pitched to studios today we would find a much darker and grittier Indiana Jones. Hollywood is all about realism and the dark and gritty.

I know that many people did not like the newer movie, Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull. Some complained about the addition of aliens, which I liked and some complained that some of the events were too far fetched…like the time when Jones hid in the refrigerator during a nuclear blast and then to have that fridge catapulted miles away with Jones walking out unscathed. I loved that scene! That scene has produced a new saying “nuked the fridge” which, along with “jump the shark” now signifies the moment when a franchise has declined beyond the point of no return.

I really do not think the movie was that bad. I found the second movie, Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, a prequel to the first movie, much worse. It just doesn’t work for me. With apologies to Mr. Spielberg the character played by his future wife, Kate Capshaw, was whinny and annoying. The addition of the kid, shortround, was not much better either. I do have to say though that the action scenes were very memorable and eating monkey brains never looked tastier!

My favorite of the franchise is the third movie, Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. I love European history so the fact that this touches upon the crusades and other aspects of European history are fascinating. My favorite though the casting of Sean Connery as Indy’s father. Casting brilliance in my opinion!

In conclusion to the works of Steven Spielberg I would have to say he is my favorite director working today. He has made very memorable timeless classics in the genre I enjoy so much. Long may he continue to do so and grace us all with his genius.

Here is an added bonus. I will include this link to some of the behind the scenes of the first Jurassic Park movie and how they animated and used suits for the Raptors. I think you will enjoy it.

https://www.stanwinstonschool.com/blog/jurassic-park-evolution-of-a-raptor-suit

The Top 20 Fantasy Films.

This is the final entry in the series looking at my favorite science fiction, monster, superhero and fantasy films.

20. Reign of Fire

A dark and gritty movie with a dystopian view of the future. It gets a little too macho at times but the special effects are great and has an exciting story.

19. Immortals

This movie is dark, not just thematically but also visually. It is graphically violent but a well told story with great action by Henry Cavill.

18. Clash of the Titans (1981)

This movie feels more like a throwback to the Sword & Sandals epics of the 50s. This may be due to Ray Harryhausen’s special effects which gives the movie a distinctive charm.

17. Kull the Conqueror

Starring Kevin Sorbo, this was filmed during his portrayal of Hercules and it fits right into that world striking the right balance of action and adventure with lighthearted humor.

16. Conan the Barbarian (2011)

I was actually bored to tears with Arnold’s take on Conan. This version is more gritty, violent full of action and adventure and more fun. I also think it has a better story.

15. Dragon Slayer

When I first saw this movie I was surprised how good the story is. It has twists and turns that took me by surprise.

14. Troy

This movie is light on the Fantasy aspect and heavy on a realistic feel which still makes it enjoyable. Loosely based on the  Iliad by Homer. 

13. The Wizard of Oz

A timeless classic for many many reasons.

12. Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory

I saw this in the theater as a kid and I still love it. Gene Wilder is simply brilliant as Willy Wonka. The movie has wonderful music and it is funny, frightening and heart warming. Based on the book Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl.
11. Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull

This movie was panned by fans but I love it. Sure it is implasuble, but aren’t all the Indiana Jones movies? It has comedy, roman action and adventure and also aliens. What more could you want?

10. Matilda

This is based on a book by Roald Dahl. This movie is aimed at kids but it is really fun and very funny. The cast of Mara Wilson, Danny DeVito, Rhea Perlman, Embeth Davidtz, and Pam Ferris are simply brilliant. If you’re an adult reading this and have not seen this movie give yourself a treat and watch this movie!

9. Prince of Persia: Sands of Time.

This is another movie that got a bad ra0p. It is a fun action adventure story that involves time travel my favorite science fiction theme. The story of betrayal and plays out like a mystery. It is a good story with great effects and very visually stunning.

8. Indiana Jones: Raiders of the Lost Ark

The classic that started it all and Harrison Ford will always be Indiana Jones. It still plays very well today.

7. Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade

This one is a heck of a lot of fun. Brilliant casting of Sean Connery as Indiana Jones’ father. My favorite of the Indiana Jones movies.

6. John Carter

Another movie that doesn’t deserve the bad rap it received. A very good and compelling story, great creatures depicted though wonderful special effects.

5. Wrath of the Titans

A sequel to the 2010 remake of Clash of the Titans. Great special effects, Great story and pure enjoyment.

4. Clash of the Titans (2010)

I enjoy this better than the 1981 original. The special effects are much better. I love the size and the look of the Kraken in this movie. The story is tighter and smoother in this movie than the original.

3. Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers

The Lord of the Ring Trilogy are the top three. I like this one but the build up to the battle at Helms Deep gets a little tedious for me.

2. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring

This is an excellent movie that really set up the trilogy well. Suspense, emotion and beautiful scenery.

1. Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King

A true great movie. It has action adventure and heart and a very emotional ending.