So I just got back from the midnight showing of the Indiana Jones movie. In my opinion:
8.5 out of 10 stars. A great movie overall. Although it was a little quirky in some areas and the plotline was weak towards the end, it was an overall enjoyable experience. Harrison Ford was great, Kate was, in my opinion, probably one of her better performances, and Shia LaBeof was also very on-par with his acting.
But overall, this movie didn't feel like Harrison was a tired old man beyond what the script demanded. I was very surprised to see stuff in that movie that I did, although its probably a stunt-double. Oh well.
Despite what people may say that I'm "blinded" by the fact that we haven't seen an Indie film in some time now, I still found it to be a rich experience. Say what you will, I still found it to be a good movie. :)
And there is my short movie review.
King
I thought it was a good movie, but it wasn't a great movie. After waiting 20 years and being a huge Indy fan I wanted great! It's probably my least favorite of the series. There are a lot of nice nods to the other films, and a lot of places that you have to grin at just watching Indy do his thing and hearing that music. There is also a lot of goofy stuff. The opening where the Paramount logo turns into the scene from the film is lame as is the Tarzan homage. Some of the action scenes rely a little to much on CGI and looks kind of fake. It was very cool to see Karen Allen back in the movie, but they really didn't use her much. She had some dialogue when they first introduce her and then she just kind of tags along with Indy and the rest of the group. It was not the same relationship they had in "Raiders". Harrison Ford, looking great for a 65 year old guy, doesn't move as slick through those action scenes like he used to. He's good, but to me he seemed maybe to lack a little of the agression he had in the previous movies. I guess you have to expect that. I wish these guys would've made a few more of these in the last 20 years while he was younger. His performance was good, but it also seemed to lack the energy that he used to have. I assume that's probably related to his age as well (rather than him being bored with the role). I don't want to give the impression that it's bad, because it's not. It's good. It's just not the knockout that I wanted to see. I might even enjoy it more on a 2nd viewing because my expectations would be a little less. I don't think this is a spoiler, but there is a nice "Star Wars" nod where Indy says "I've got a bad feeling about this".
Quote from: saunders on May 22, 2008, 07:52:27 AMThe opening where the Paramount logo turns into the scene from the film is lame as is the Tarzan homage.
Umm, you realize they did the same thing in Raiders of the Lost Ark. I thought it was kinda nice they did that.
Otherwise....opinions. *shrug*
King
Quote from: Kinglinksr on May 22, 2008, 11:22:18 AM
Quote from: saunders on May 22, 2008, 07:52:27 AMThe opening where the Paramount logo turns into the scene from the film is lame as is the Tarzan homage.
Umm, you realize they did the same thing in Raiders of the Lost Ark. I thought it was kinda nice they did that.
Otherwise....opinions. *shrug*
King
They actually used that trick in all the previous Indy movies. I think Saunders was aware of this and perhaps he meant that this film used it in the weakest way. :)
Ahhhh woops ok.
King
Yeah, I know they did that in all the movies. I was looking forward to seeing what they'd come up with in this one and rolled my eyes when I saw it because it was kind of goofy.
Just come back from the cinema. Well i am a huge Jones fan, i own a fedora that was made by Steven Delks (he made the ones used in this movie) and cost me quite a few pounds.
All in all i really enjoyed it. Ford was brilliant and he played it exactly as i hoped he would. Great wise cracks, seriously enjoyable opening and of course just seeing the ark made me smile.
Ray Winstone was great, the man can do no wrong in my opinion. Karen Allen did well, always good to see a familiar face although i feel she didn't really have much to do in the film. Cate Blanchett made a good villain in that 50's style comic style way (which is of course what the Jones adventures are all about).
I really enjoyed Shia LaBeouf's performance. I had my reservations about his character (not the actor) but all in all he pulled it off very well. The ending of the film is the weakest point, i mean come on knock it off.
So should there be another film, the nod with the hat at the end indicates Shia taking over but I'm not keen on that idea. Not because of Shia i just think Indiana Jones is Ford. Great film 8 out of 10 for and I'll be off to see it again.
I just got back from the theater myself, and all I can say is...AWESOME. I loved every minute of it, it had everything I could possibly want in a sequel to Raiders, it was easily as great and enjoyable as TOD or Last Crusade. I liked that they didn't bang you over the head with the "Indy is old" stuff, one or two jokes referring to it near the beginning then thats all. The scenes with Karen Allen were sweet and wonderful, so glad she was brought back for this movie. I managed to totally avoid spoilers for this movie before I went to see it and it really makes a big difference for the overall enjoyment. If you haven't seen this yet, what are you waiting for? It's wonderful nostalgia, and funny, and exciting and an all around terrific experience.
Saw it last night with my younger son and Mark from here on the forum. Really, really enjoyed it. I have watched most of the films Harrison Ford has made in the last 20 years after Indy (actually maybe all of them) and his performance here easily topped all of those combined. It's obvious he loves playing Indy and it really showed. He had a lot of energy and a twinkle in his eye through the whole film. In my opinion he did the action scenes without missing a beat. While watching I had no doubts that Indy was back. A little older, a little more seasoned, but still the Indy we all love and care about. I liked how he played his scenes with Shia a lot. Kind of took him under his wing. Seeing Karen Allen back as Marion was perfect. I was extremely happy with all of the performances. Now the story - yeah maybe could of been a bit better, but mostly it didn't bother me. I can see why they spent so long looking for the right story and script.
So as I left the movie theater with my fedora on my head and leather jacket on I found I had a big grin on my face that hadn't been there in a long time. Great movie!
Yes - Indy is back. I enjoyed the parts when Det. Jones. Figuring out the clues and life discussions with Mud (Shia), catching up with Marion. That was great. The first words out of her mouth were lifted from Raiders :D The action scenes were right up there with the other films. I now hate: ants, scorpions and snakes - gophers are ok :). I watched the Crystal Skull special on sci-fi and the film makes reference to the real-life explorers. They gave Shia a Brando-On-The-Waterfront look. Wow - that kid is definitely going places. First, Transformers and now Indy 4. He has a movie - Eagle Eye - coming out later this year.
Any one catch the line "I've got a bad feeling about this" ah bit of class.
Quote from: HawkeyeMeds on May 23, 2008, 07:39:22 AM
Any one catch the line "I've got a bad feeling about this" ah bit of class.
I know, I spent much of my time during the movie scanning the hieroglyphics for representations of R2-D2 and C-3PO. There were lots of little references thrown in there to the other films, but you just know there's a hidden treat somewhere that some eagle eyed fan is going to catch.
Oh yeah and thats what makes indy films so much fun. The little details. Going to have to watch it again to find them.
I got back from seeing this, and I really enjoyed it. The movie was a lot of fun, and I think I had a smile on my face the whole way through. I really liked the Chemistry between Indy and Mutt(Shia), they made a great duo. I liked the Mac character as well, it was fin watching him, and I liked how they handled his character. I was telling my wife when we left the theatre, that I will go see this again. This is fantastic, if they make another, I am all for it.
I'm with you Jeff. I had a smile the whole time. Going again tomorrow and taking Lynn and my older son who is home for the long weekend.
Wasn't it just awesome? You know, combining two of my faves, adventure and sci fi. VERY COOL! I really enjoyed this movie. Amy and I smiled and laughed at all the great inside jokes too. Great stuff.
Going to see this tomorrow.. I can't wait..
Taking my nephews tomorrow. The anticipation is painful, especially in light of all the very good reviews from people I trust.
Took Lynn to see it today. She liked it a lot. And I had a great time seeing it once again. I'll probably go at least once more while it's in the theaters.
Couldn't find time to see it today.. should see it sometime this week.. it's killing me that I have to wait..
I'm seeing it Thursday night with my brother and uncle when I am back east.
I loved this movie. I loved seeing Alan Dale (Charles Widmore-Lost) and Neil Flynn (The Janitor-Scrubs) in the start of the movie. They are great actors. I also liked see the homage they paid to the Raiders of the Lost Ark in the start of the movie (to stay spoiler free). The ending was great, but it didn't answer everything, which is unfortunate, and it seems (at least to me) that the villain got the better deal. But thats my point of view.
"Indy" made over $126 million this weekend in the US (over $300 million worldwide). Second best Memorial Day opening - ever. I'm guessing we will see a fifth movie.
Ah Alan Dale, i remember him as Jim Robinson in the Australian drama/Soap Neighbours. That man is a legend. I loved the film, but as i said earlier the ending is just not on, well not the very ending i think thats brilliant but the ending of the adventure, come on.
Went to see it today and I loved it. Lots of great little inside nods to other Spileberg/Lucas stuff which was great. I am curious to know what Scott Johnson and the guys at Extralife think because they are not fans of Shia LeBeouf. I personally liked him in the movie and hope they expand on him in the future. Overall I like dth emovie and would rank a close third in the series overall.
i had my doubts about mutt, but you know i really thought he bouht the best out of Ford. Ray Winstone is a legend "JONESY!!!!!!!!!"
I was a little disappointed in the Ray Winstone (Mac) character. I wanted Indy to have a buddy he could trust, like Sallah was. The idea of a guy just turning sides to make more money is pretty weak too. I was ok up until he turned back with the Soviets the last time. Then it got a bit silly. Not a huge deal, but I felt it weakened the story a bit. But I guess Indy had Mutt to pal around with anyway.
I loved the fact that they gave a bit of insight as to what Dr. Jones did during WWII. I tend to forget that the first 3 movies were pre-war.
This is a great picture from behind the scenes while making the movie. Check out George's shirt.
More pics are here:
http://movies.yahoo.com/summer-movies/Indiana-Jones-Kingdom-of-the-Crystal-Skull/1808404510/photos/269
Ironic since wasn't it George who changed the scene? That, to me, ranks with Spielberg changing all the guns to walkie-talkies in ET as two of the most horrendous changes to a movie EVER!!!
ANyway, I still really enjoyed the movie.
You can't have three characters who are on Indy's side. If Mac was with him as well then the characters of Mutt and Marion would be weakened. I like the twist with Mac, lets face it once the skull is returned and the next part happens (trying to be spoiler free here) it can't get any more unrealistic can it. I really enjoyed the film but that bit and the monkeys were a bit "Lucas rubbish."
I Liked the movie, but found the ending to be a little disappointing, Liked the story, but thought the ending could have been done a little better, It just seemed to end rather abruptly to me, It reminded me allot of how Steven Kings movies tend to end.
Don't get me wrong, I Liked the movie, but after all the build up to he end, I just expected something a little more satisfying, It just left me wanting something more as it seemed to lack something
Just got back from seeing Indy... I loved every minute of it from the beginning to very last frame of film.. WOW what a AWESOME wild ride.
Quote from: Rico on May 27, 2008, 08:08:04 AM
This is a great picture from behind the scenes while making the movie. Check out George's shirt.
More pics are here:
http://movies.yahoo.com/summer-movies/Indiana-Jones-Kingdom-of-the-Crystal-Skull/1808404510/photos/269
LOL, I wore my Han Shot First shirt to see Indy on Sunday night. :D
I enjoyed the movie. The action was WONDERFUL... The special effects were great! And it was awesome to see Indy back in the saddle again. I cheered when Marion showed up and I really liked the Mud character. The only things that bothered me were the HORRIBLE historical inaccuracies. As an art student who voluntarily took archaeology and anthropology as my electives in college every semester and eats up every documentary on the Incas, Mayans and Aztecs... this movie featured one glaring mistake after another with regards to the cultures and the regions they inhabited. It wouldn't have been that difficult to get those details right... especially since Indy is an ARCHAEOLOGIST. Regardless, it was still fun and I tried to push that all out of my mind and enjoy the film. I LOVED the motorcycle fight scene. GO INDY!
I know what you mean Jen. Since I'm a scientist I have to sort of turn off those parts of my brain when I see these movies. But I had a big smile watching Indy again and that other stuff just sort of falls away. But I did sort of chuckle during the "big bomb" part. Not really sure why they even needed that scene. Anyway, still a great time at the movies!
I thought the whole atomic bomb/doomtown was cool. Sure, it was WAY beyond the bounds of reality but I think that, along with the whole "red scare" scenes were more to show the signs of the times than anything else. Although I think 1957 was the tail end of the "Red Scare", the paranoia wasn't quite as bad as it was in the early 50's when you had the Iron Curtain come down, the Rosenburgs, Senator McCarthy and things like that. \
I though it was great that Indy was an OSS agent during the war...it strangely fit.
Thanks for all of the great reviews guys. Between the ones here and other places I visit, I'm thinking I might better hold off until DVD. Maybe it's a bit of Lucas paranoia because of my experiences with Phantom Menace, but when I hear reviews like it was good but ... I tend to get hesitant and wonder if it's the movie that was good or the nostalgia that makes it seem that way.
I'm going to see it tomorrow night with my uncle and brother back in CT. From what I have seen and read, I think it will be ok. I was listening to ExtraLife yesterday and Scott Johnson really didn't like it much. Randy Johnson though it was good and he said something I realized I was 100% my opinion about all these movies. They are all good flicks BUT for me Raiders is so far and away superior to the rest I will never feel the same way about the others. I'm not so much a fan of the franchise, I am a huge fan of the first movie. When I get a Blue-Ray player, the only film I will buy would be Raiders.
Don't miss out on seeing it in the theater with other fans. I'm glad I saw it in the theater... it would lose something if I saw it for the first time at home.
Quote from: Just X on May 28, 2008, 09:31:10 AM
Thanks for all of the great reviews guys. Between the ones here and other places I visit, I'm thinking I might better hold off until DVD. Maybe it's a bit of Lucas paranoia because of my experiences with Phantom Menace, but when I hear reviews like it was good but ... I tend to get hesitant and wonder if it's the movie that was good or the nostalgia that makes it seem that way.
Quote from: Just X on May 28, 2008, 09:31:10 AM
Thanks for all of the great reviews guys. Between the ones here and other places I visit, I'm thinking I might better hold off until DVD. Maybe it's a bit of Lucas paranoia because of my experiences with Phantom Menace, but when I hear reviews like it was good but ... I tend to get hesitant and wonder if it's the movie that was good or the nostalgia that makes it seem that way.
I think just about any movie is going to have but... , as nothing is ever perfect. I do not disagree that this movie does have some Nostalgia going for it, but past that it is a movie that is a lot of fun to watch like the other Indy Movies. I guess as well for me, I still value the movie going experience, as good as Home Theatres get, I still think that the Big screen is the best place for these types of Movies. Call me a fanboy :) , but I certainly was never traumatized by the Phantom Menace, as as everyone has pointed out it has it flaws, does that make it not good? I don't think so (but that is just my opinion). I guess I can just only speak for myself, but If I think a movie of this type is something I would like to see in the Theatre, then I would rather take that gamble and see it, then to see it later on a smaller screen and regret that I never went.
I have said many times before, I'm a big fan of seeing movies in the theater. I used to go almost every week. Now I mainly go to those films that for me have something more to offer in the theater experience. Cool effects and some audience reaction moments are some aspects of that. I also really hate spoilers and knowing too much before I see a movie. I think it really clouds your viewpoint not to mention spoil much of the suspense and surprise of the movie.
Anyway, everyone has to make up their own mind of course. But seeing a new Indiana Jones film after almost 20 years in the theater was not even a question for me.
I've had my moans about people irritating me in the cinema, BUT and i do mean this you cannot beat seeing a film in the cinema. And films like this should be seen at the flicks.
Quote from: Just X on May 28, 2008, 09:31:10 AM
Thanks for all of the great reviews guys. Between the ones here and other places I visit, I'm thinking I might better hold off until DVD. Maybe it's a bit of Lucas paranoia because of my experiences with Phantom Menace, but when I hear reviews like it was good but ... I tend to get hesitant and wonder if it's the movie that was good or the nostalgia that makes it seem that way.
It to me was worth it Just X. Even though the movie was kinda weak towards the end, (yea, ik, this has beaten on a lot) it was WELL worth going to at 12:01am in the morning on Wednesday. And I was kinda against it in the first place. (Friend convinced me). So take a friend or someone to go and see it.
King
Quote from: Bryancd on May 28, 2008, 09:56:00 AM
I'm going to see it tomorrow night with my uncle and brother back in CT. From what I have seen and read, I think it will be ok. I was listening to ExtraLife yesterday and Scott Johnson really didn't like it much. Randy Johnson though it was good and he said something I realized I was 100% my opinion about all these movies. They are all good flicks BUT for me Raiders is so far and away superior to the rest I will never feel the same way about the others. I'm not so much a fan of the franchise, I am a huge fan of the first movie. When I get a Blue-Ray player, the only film I will buy would be Raiders.
Yeah Scott beat up on it pretty bad. So much so in fact that I actually fast-forwarded through parts of the podcast because he became a bit...redundant I guess toward the end until Randy came on. I was shocked that he thought Shia was one of the strong points of the movie considering how much they seem to revile him.
Again, while I thought a few parts of the film were a bit...meh. Overall I thought it was a fun summer movie and unlike some when the series comes to Blu-Ray I will gladly fork over the cash for all 4 movies.
I was watching Temple of Doom today. People love this movie. Not everyone, surely, but I see a lot of people ranking it as the second best Indy film.
However, the film's beginning includes these "highlights"
- the movie starts out with an extended song-and-dance production number
- has Indy drink a drink offered to him by a guy who just threatened his life
- introduces a cute kid sidekick
- has two pilots abandon their plane to kill a sleeping Indy (instead of just killing the sleeping Indy)
- has Indy survive jumping from a plane by landing in a rubber raft
- then has Indy somehow survive a ridiculously long fall into a river in that same raft
All in the first 10-15 minutes!
If KotCS had started out similarly, the Internet would have cracked in half with fanboy hysteria, all whining how Lucas/Spielberg had completely lost it.
Speaking of Lucas/Spielberg, I love how everyone who hates the movie blames George, as if they know exactly which ideas in this collaborative effort had to have originated from him. He's in a can't-win situation. He won't get any credit, and he gets the lion's share of the blame. I'd feel bad for him, if he wasn't a billionaire. :)
Okay. Let me clear something up. For me watching it at home has never been a bad thing. I worked for five years working at both a cinema and a video store full time and quickly grew to hate the smell of popcorn and almost a decade later I still can't stand the stuff.
I saw phantom menace two days before it opened because I built the film for the theater I was working at. There was less than 12 of us watching it. At least a 3rd of us fell asleep watching the movie. We didn't fall asleep screening Species 2, but Phantom Menace was just boring to me and it didn't get better. The prequels only proved to me that I like Star War more when Lucas isn't directing it or doing the screen play (ie 5 and 6).
I know that might sound like blasphemy, but I wanted to bash my head in when the credits rolled on Episode 1 and swore to myself that I would attempt to avoid nostalgia in the future.
BUT after what some of you have said, I think I might give it a chance there and ignore my popcorn hatred for a few hours.
Spielberg is directing this one... So you're in luck
I still hate popcorn. Nacho's with salsa for me. Hmmmm. Nacho's
Oh, I forgot another little nod to past Indy movies and to Dr Henry Jones Sr.. There is one point in the forest where Indiana says: "This is intolerable"
That made smile when I heard it.
Quote from: HawkeyeMeds on May 29, 2008, 05:31:18 AM
I still hate popcorn. Nacho's with salsa for me. Hmmmm. Nacho's
How do you eat those in the dark? I can barely keep clean eating nachos with lots of light around. LOL!
Finally got around to seeing this today. All I can say is that it had some good moments but quite a bit of it dragged for me and I found myself yawning a lot and not because I didn't get enough rest. The film has too much of a "been here, done that" feel. Karen Allen's acting was quite subpar in almost every scene. Shia Labouf was OK but nothing special. Ford was a little haggard and worn looking but not as much as I expected. I guess they had good makeup artists for him. The skull is nothing more than a mcguffin to move the story along. The ending was rather disappointing and anti-climatic. All in all it was still basically an Indian Jones film but the weakest of the series so far. I'm sure there will probably be a fifth film and it may prove to be even weaker. I hope not. Anyway, I would give this only 2 1/2 stars out of 5.
Kevin
I love popcorn. Probably way too much. It really is the snack of champions!
:boxing :ohbaby :ninja :metallica: :joker :troopersmile
Quote from: Rico on May 30, 2008, 07:29:30 AM
Quote from: HawkeyeMeds on May 29, 2008, 05:31:18 AM
I still hate popcorn. Nacho's with salsa for me. Hmmmm. Nacho's
How do you eat those in the dark? I can barely keep clean eating nachos with lots of light around. LOL!
Ha ha it takes a lot of practice and a bib.
There is a discussion going on over on the Replica Prop Forum about the original Frank Darabont script for the Indy movie. Now, as you all know I did enjoy the movie quite a bit. But I did feel the story could have been better - tighter. I'll copy the basics of what is being said here.
Frank Darabont's script for Indiana Jones IV, entitled Indiana Jones and the City of the Gods, is an archaeological wonder in its own right. However, we've received a bootleg copy of the script that's making its way around the internet, which is reported, but not confirmed, to be the real thing. We read it, and it seems pretty legit, or the person who is faking it is a terrific screenwriter. Either way, here's a review. CAUTION: SPOILERS EVERYWHERE - IF YOU HAVEN'T SEEN 'INDIANA JONES AND THE KINGDOM OF THE CRYSTAL SKULL, READ THIS AT YOUR PERIL.
First off, the script is largely the same, storywise, focusing on the discovery of the crystal skull, as well as the lost city in Peru where the Gods were thought to live, only to discover that these "gods" were aliens with a culture advanced thousands of years beyond our own.
Also, Marion Ravenwood is in the script. In fact, she's featured even more prominently than in the actual film. And, yes, she and Indy end up married in the end. Oxley's there, as well as a double-crossing friend, and, to my surprise, the "nuking the fridge" sequence and the giant ants are there, as well.
However, also in this script are Dr. Henry Jones, Sr. and Sallah, making awesome cameo appearances that really help cement the whole history of Indiana Jones, and tie the whole saga together.
What's not in the script? Well, Shia LaBoeuf's character, Mutt, for one thing. There's no mention of a son and no appearance of one either. Now, while I didn't necessarily think that Mutt's character was one of the most egregiously awful things about the movie, his absence definitely makes room for more character development on Indy's part, and it allows the story to shine through, in opposition to the constant 'wink-wink-he's-his-son-but-neither-of-them-know-it-yet' portions of Crystal Skull that drove me nuts.
This script is awesome in exactly the places that Crystal Skull was lame. Just those few flips in the sequence removed all of the punch from this really excellent, well thought out, super exciting script, and rendered it vacuous and boring. In other words, Spielberg and Lucas chose the right story, but they neutered it to focus on the wrong things.
There are at least three awesome action sequences in this script, including a fighter plane chase that would have blown the doors off the theater had it actually happened on film. In addition, the double-crossing friend is a Russian, which makes the whole America vs. the Soviet Union thing work a lot better. Oxley's character isn't like a family pet, and there are some nods to the Indiana Jones mythology that really work well here.
Perhaps the biggest difference in the script is the treatment of Marion Ravenwood. First off, she doesn't spend the entirety of the story standing in the background grinning like she's happy to have a job. She's the Marion we came to know and love in Raiders of the Lost Ark, and her story arc is so much more believable in this script that it's a night-and-day experience.
Also, the aliens are mean. They're a legitimate threat, not fascinating, but terrifying, and there's an implication that they have been the reason that humans believe in God for the past several thousand years. The resolution of the plot is so much more satisfying here than in the actual film, and the script just shows that Lucas and Spielberg were too soft to make the choices that turned the plot a little dark and/or scary.
At the end of the day, Indiana Jones and the City of the Gods is 100% a better script than the one that was shot for the film. This would have been the right way to close out the series, and it would have been a return to form that no one could have expected, instead of a movie that everyone places just above the abysmal Temple of Doom in the Indy canon.
And for your reading pleasure, here is a link to a PDF of the script being talked about. I can't say if this script is entirely genuine but many believe it is.
http://www.treksinscifi.com/misc/Indiana_Jones_and_the_City_of_the_Gods.pdf (http://www.treksinscifi.com/misc/Indiana_Jones_and_the_City_of_the_Gods.pdf)
Sadly, dwelling on what could have been doesn't make what happened any easier. We must live with the fact that Lucas CHOSE his script. *shrug* what can we do?
King
That's an interesting take. Obviously, this is all very subjective, like that last line for example which refers to ToD as "abysmal". Also I love that "everyone places [KotCS] just above [ToD]". I was unaware of any uniformity of opinion on these things.
Interestingly, I've been following a similar discussion over on the Sideshow Freaks board, and the opinion of the Darabont script isn't nearly as glowing.
http://sideshowcollectors.com/forums/showthread.php?t=35694 (http://sideshowcollectors.com/forums/showthread.php?t=35694)
I've downloaded the PDF and hope to get a chance to read it this weekend and form my own opinion.
I should of mentioned that the bold excerpt above was taken from the G4 TV network. Again, reading the script and deciding for yourself is the best way. I just think it's interesting to see all the variations that these things go through before we get the final product.
OK, I FINALLY saw it last night......Hmmmm.
I thought the first 25% of the movie was great. The warehouse sequence and motorcycle chase though the college were classic, fun Indy fair. I was even OK with the nuclear test scene, although that was a bit hard to take. I enjoyed all the scenes between the characters, the dialogue was good, pacing was nice and even. I was becoming very optimistic that perhaps people had been too critical of the film. Just as an aside, I grew up about 45min from Yale where all the college scenes were filmed and have walked all those streets. Kinda cool! All of these scenes had a great "American Graffiti" kind of feel and you could clearly see Lucas having fun with it.
...and then they go to South America and this movie headed south in a hurry. The scene in the tomb where they find the skull had some dense exposition which did nothing but confuse me. Somehow all the fun just got sucked out of the movie just like that. Yes it was nice to see Marion but Karen Allen seemed lost and out of place. The snake bit was terrible. The truck chase through the jungle had promise but when Mutt was straddling the two jeeps while sword fighting, it was just dumb. And don't get me started on the monkey vine thing, what a waste of screen time. I'm all for having fun with an action scene, but it doesn't have to be insultingly stupid. The ants were OK.
By the time they got to the temple and El Dorado, I had really lost interest in the story, well, I was really lost and confused by the story to tell the truth. Even the actors seemed to loose interest. The climax of the film...? So why did Mac say "I'll be OK?" and are the "aliens" benevolent or malevolent? Who knows and unfortunately, who cares. When I hear people talk about this movie being a nonstop thrill ride I can't help but think that they must be very easily thrilled. I don't find anything thrilling in overbearing CGI effects thrown at me which may look good but are still silly. I thought Harrison was great for what he had to work with, Kate was solid as the villain, and Shia was good, so it wasn't the actors I had issue with. The one good thing I can say is that "Kingdom of the Crystal Skull" has made me appreciate "Temple of Doom" more! At least Temple of Doom was able to hold on to that Indy spark longer than this film.
By far this is the worst Indy film of the four.
finally saw it . overall COOL.
Hmmmm you know I still enjoyed the new film and it's great to see Indy back but i watched Raiders again earlier and i'm having to have a really good think. I can put Raiders and Crusade on at anytime. temple hmmm every now and again but when i think about Crystal Skull, you know i just don't think i would watch it all the time. In fact I think i'd put Temple ahead of it. Now i'm not back tracking my previous post because i enjoyed seeing Harrison back in the Fedora but when I am thinking about watching on DVD, out of all 4 films, it would be last. Shame.
Quote from: HawkeyeMeds on June 19, 2008, 02:28:54 PM
Hmmmm you know I still enjoyed the new film and it's great to see Indy back but i watched Raiders again earlier and i'm having to have a really good think. I can put Raiders and Crusade on at anytime. temple hmmm every now and again but when i think about Crystal Skull, you know i just don't think i would watch it all the time. In fact I think i'd put Temple ahead of it. Now i'm not back tracking my previous post because i enjoyed seeing Harrison back in the Fedora but when I am thinking about watching on DVD, out of all 4 films, it would be last. Shame.
Exactly how I feel. Last Crusade showed the world that they could make a film in the same wonderful spirit as Raiders, so what happened here? :confused
Lucas got his own way.
Quote from: HawkeyeMeds on June 19, 2008, 03:09:51 PM
Lucas got his own way.
You know it's funny you say that as it was the clearly Lucas inspired and influenced parts of Crystal Skull I enjoyed the most. And yet Lucas will be the fall guy for all the overbearing CGI and poor story telling due to his detractors (and fairly so) of the SW prequels.
Yup. he's a genius at coming up with characters and basic storylines, but boy you give the guy enough rope and he'll hang everyone. I just think he has a habit of doing way too much and loosing the basic premise of what Indiana Jones is, which is a action adventure serial done in the style of 1950's tv and comics.
I dunno, I look at all the backlash and negative reviews this film has been generating and I just think that people have a problem letting go and enjoying themselves when it is called for. For me there was nothing so offensive about the effects, CGI, or plot that limited my enjoyment of this movie in any way. I didn't find the inclusion of aliens as the supernatural phenomenon in this movie any more unbelieveable or difficult to take than I did the power of God or dark magic in the other films. My feeling is that this is a summer blockbuster, not a major piece of art or literature, and furthermore it's the fourth film in a series. The first is and always will be the classic that is revered and remembered. To me this one and the other two are just fun footnotes bringing back the magic and memories of the first in an unoffensive, enjoyable way.
Ditto... that was absolutely well said...
Quote from: Jobydrone4of20 on June 20, 2008, 06:43:37 AM
I dunno, I look at all the backlash and negative reviews this film has been generating and I just think that people have a problem letting go and enjoying themselves when it is called for. For me there was nothing so offensive about the effects, CGI, or plot that limited my enjoyment of this movie in any way. I didn't find the inclusion of aliens as the supernatural phenomenon in this movie any more unbelieveable or difficult to take than I did the power of God or dark magic in the other films. My feeling is that this is a summer blockbuster, not a major piece of art or literature, and furthermore it's the fourth film in a series. The first is and always will be the classic that is revered and remembered. To me this one and the other two are just fun footnotes bringing back the magic and memories of the first in an unoffensive, enjoyable way.
Yep - I agree with Joby and Kenny. For me this movie was a lot of fun and it was great to see Indy in a new adventure. Sure, it could of been a bit better, maybe a little tighter, etc. but that really didn't bother me as much as it seems some people. I got such a big grin when Harrison/Indy first appears, reaches down for his hat and turns around to face the camera. And for me, that's what really mattered.
I couldn't disagree more. I have no problem "letting go" and just enjoying the movie, but this movie wasn't good. Period. My buddy I saw it with felt the same way. If it's not good, it's not good. I don't see why people feel compelled to accept that just because we got a fourth movie made we need to just shut up and be thankful. I'm glad you all enjoyed it but I don't think that the many that didn't are simply unwilling to let go, I think they are simply calling a spade a spade.
Besides, I have read what I consider some exceedingly generous reviews of movies around here under the guise of "it's a good popcorn flick" or "it's a good summer movie" blah, blah, blah. Sometimes movies just suck and it's ok! :dry
Bryan - it's all just your, mine or another person's opinion. I try very hard to say that it's just my viewpoint when I talk about any movie or TV show I discuss here or on the podcast. I liked it - you didn't. My view is just as valid as yours. A movie, a book, a TV show, works of art, etc. are not bad or good. It's what people think of them that defines them.
Last, this is the very reason I try very hard to see things as soon as they come out if it's something I am very interested in. This means my view is not clouded by weeks or even months of other peoples views and comments. Even though I'm generally pretty hard to sway and not easily influenced by others. It's hard to really like something once other people have been trashing it. Conversely, something universally praised and loved is hard to live up to the expectations when you finally see it.
A quote I always love to use in these situations is by Harlan Ellison. He always loves to say, "Everyone is entitled to their informed opinion." An important difference from the typical quotation. In other words, everyone as long as you are informed (or have seen a movie) is entitled to their own viewpoint and opinion.
I agree with you completely Rico. I haven't gotten around to seeing it which is why I've been staying out of the conversation. Hopefully I'll get around to it soon!
No, that's all cool, I just think to assume that someone doesn't like something because of other peoples views or that they can't let go or it's the fourth movie, ect. is presumptuous. Personally I think it's ok to not like a movie not because you have some deep seeded predisposition against it but just because it's just plain not good in the viewers opinion.
I'm really responding to what Jorby said.
Well I saw film the day it came out and I gave my opinions as soon a I saw it, which i think are generally still the same, good film, not Raiders, Rubbish ending (first ending with the damn ship, not final ending that was cool). I agree with Rico, but i so agree with Bryan. It's a good film and Harrison is fab, but would you (out of choice) put it on before Raiders? before Crusade?, before Temple? Thats what is important in a Indy fan kind of way. Seriously, now you have seen it and the hype weather created here or on other media networks has now died down can you seriously put The Crystal Skull in the category of I'll throw a film on for something to watch. You know i don't think i can. I love Indy films, and i did enjoy the new film but when i ask this question, i really am stuck.
I tried to go and watch the movie with an open mind and no preconceptions. And as such I enjoyed the film, it was fun and entertaining. But it did not feel like an Indy movie...
I am sure some of it had to do with the SF theme of the movie, that seemed very out of place for an Indy movie. Which has traditionally been metaphysical in nature. And God knows there are still plenty of legends and treasures to be found out there, so why the need to go SF is beyond me.
But what bugged me the most was something I could not put my finger on until days latter. It was the lack of location shots, one of the things I always loved about an Indy movie was the exotic locals. The cultures and their music and foods and art. Everything in this movie seemed shot on a soundstage. I think the digital look of the movie may have had a lot to do with it, too much digital work will pull the audience back a bit from the sense of realism, and danger that was another Indy trademark.
Bottom line though, it was still fun. And in the end that is what matters most to me, was I entertained? Yes. Did I laugh? Yes. Thank you George and Steve.
Quote from: Omra on June 20, 2008, 03:59:10 PM
I tried to go and watch the movie with an open mind and no preconceptions. And as such I enjoyed the film, it was fun and entertaining. But it did not feel like an Indy movie...
I am sure some of it had to do with the SF theme of the movie, that seemed very out of place for an Indy movie. Which has traditionally been metaphysical in nature. And God knows there are still plenty of legends and treasures to be found out there, so why the need to go SF is beyond me.
But what bugged me the most was something I could not put my finger on until days latter. It was the lack of location shots, one of the things I always loved about an Indy movie was the exotic locals. The cultures and their music and foods and art. Everything in this movie seemed shot on a soundstage. I think the digital look of the movie may have had a lot to do with it, too much digital work will pull the audience back a bit from the sense of realism, and danger that was another Indy trademark.
Bottom line though, it was still fun. And in the end that is what matters most to me, was I entertained? Yes. Did I laugh? Yes. Thank you George and Steve.
See, I appreciate that. A fair and balanced view. If anyone actually read what I wrote, I REALLY enjoyed the first 25% of this movie and I explained why. I wasn't pre-judging it at all, I was having fun until the film began to fail for me. I for one much more appreciate a review of a movie which highlights it's positives and negatives, especially when there is such a mixed opinion about it. I'm not disappointed I saw it, I just wish it had been so much more and I think they missed a great opportunity.
If what I have been hearing is true they are preparing to hand the whip off to Shiloh, when that happens it will be a whole new ballgame.
The day it becomes 'The Adventures of Mutt' or whatever they will be calling it, I think people will be more accepting of a new style and look. Because they will no longer be comparing it to the older movies but accepting it as something NEW! And different!
Quote from: Bryancd on June 20, 2008, 08:45:36 AM
I couldn't disagree more. I have no problem "letting go" and just enjoying the movie, but this movie wasn't good. Period. My buddy I saw it with felt the same way. If it's not good, it's not good. I don't see why people feel compelled to accept that just because we got a fourth movie made we need to just shut up and be thankful. I'm glad you all enjoyed it but I don't think that the many that didn't are simply unwilling to let go, I think they are simply calling a spade a spade.
Besides, I have read what I consider some exceedingly generous reviews of movies around here under the guise of "it's a good popcorn flick" or "it's a good summer movie" blah, blah, blah. Sometimes movies just suck and it's ok! :dry
and
Quote from: Bryancd on June 20, 2008, 09:31:20 AM
No, that's all cool, I just think to assume that someone doesn't like something because of other peoples views or that they can't let go or it's the fourth movie, ect. is presumptuous. Personally I think it's ok to not like a movie not because you have some deep seeded predisposition against it but just because it's just plain not good in the viewers opinion.
I'm really responding to what Jorby said.
My post was not in any way directed at you, Bryan. I sure am sorry you took it so personally. It was a general opinion about the negative response this movie has gotten since its release. Maybe it's presumptuous, but it's what I believe. But since you made this personal, in my mind your over the top reaction to my general post confirms that I am right and you need help relaxing and letting go! Your opinion about things is not gospel. Just because you thought something sucks does not make it a universal truth.
Other people's opinions of a movie only matter if they influence whether you see the movie or not. After you've seen a movie, who cares if anyone else liked it?
As people I'm friendly with, I'm disappointed for those of you who didn't get a good Indy movie this summer.
Be happy for me, though; I did get one.
Quote from: pickard on June 21, 2008, 06:33:24 AM
As people I'm friendly with, I'm disappointed for those of you who didn't get a good Indy movie this summer.
Be happy for me, though; I did get one.
:) Same here..
Quote from: Jobydrone4of20 on June 21, 2008, 06:05:40 AM
Quote from: Bryancd on June 20, 2008, 08:45:36 AM
I couldn't disagree more. I have no problem "letting go" and just enjoying the movie, but this movie wasn't good. Period. My buddy I saw it with felt the same way. If it's not good, it's not good. I don't see why people feel compelled to accept that just because we got a fourth movie made we need to just shut up and be thankful. I'm glad you all enjoyed it but I don't think that the many that didn't are simply unwilling to let go, I think they are simply calling a spade a spade.
Besides, I have read what I consider some exceedingly generous reviews of movies around here under the guise of "it's a good popcorn flick" or "it's a good summer movie" blah, blah, blah. Sometimes movies just suck and it's ok! :dry
and
Quote from: Bryancd on June 20, 2008, 09:31:20 AM
No, that's all cool, I just think to assume that someone doesn't like something because of other peoples views or that they can't let go or it's the fourth movie, ect. is presumptuous. Personally I think it's ok to not like a movie not because you have some deep seeded predisposition against it but just because it's just plain not good in the viewers opinion.
I'm really responding to what Jorby said.
My post was not in any way directed at you, Bryan. I sure am sorry you took it so personally. It was a general opinion about the negative response this movie has gotten since its release. Maybe it's presumptuous, but it's what I believe. But since you made this personal, in my mind your over the top reaction to my general post confirms that I am right and you need help relaxing and letting go! Your opinion about things is not gospel. Just because you thought something sucks does not make it a universal truth.
I'm not mad at you, Jorby, I just don't think it's fair to categorize the many people who didn't like Indy as drinking the critical cool aid, so to speak. The movie had problems. If a viewer was able to look beyond them and enjoy the experience, great. And just as you feel that people are influenced into not liking this movie because of what others are saying, I made the reciprocal argument that some people who liked would have liked 2 hours of watching Indy's hat collect dust. ;)
We're both generalizing two sides of that coin. :)
I liked this Indy too. Harrison is still very good looking for his age (yumm)! I don't try to know what others think. Hard enough to come up with my own thoughts at times. But for me it was a thrill to see Indy in the theater and not on just my TV!
Quote from: Yeoman Mara on June 21, 2008, 11:02:39 AM
I liked this Indy too. Harrison is still very good looking for his age (yumm)! I don't try to know what others think. Hard enough to come up with my own thoughts at times. But for me it was a thrill to see Indy in the theater and not on just my TV!
oh yeah regardless of its faults its a must see Cinema film
Indiana Jones Top $700 Million Worldwide
Source: Paramount Pictures, Lucasfilm Ltd.
June 30, 2008
Paramount Pictures and Lucasfilm Ltd.'s Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull, directed by Steven Spielberg, produced by Frank Marshall and executive produced by George Lucas and Kathleen Kennedy, crossed the $300 million mark domestically yesterday -- and topped $400 million overseas last Friday. With a cumulative gross of more than $713 million to date it is the highest grossing worldwide release of 2008.
"Indy" gave Paramount's distribution arm its second $300 million plus release for summer 2008, joining Marvel Entertainment's Iron Man, which has grossed more than $309 million so far domestically (and almost $250 million overseas). Paramount becomes the first studio in movie history to release two back-to-back $300 million plus grossing films two years in a row. In 2007, two consecutive Paramount releases, DreamWorks Animation's Shrek the Third and DreamWorks/Paramount's Transformers, both surpassed $300 million domestically.
That's a lot of money. I bet we get another one.
That is a LOT of mulah! However, I would prefer that they let the franchise lie in peace. KOTCS was not a very good film and to tell you the truth I doubt they can actually do better. It's best to leave it before they really do more harm and damage to the franchise IMHO. Let the dead bury the dead.
Kevin
Well the 700 Million dollars box office shows that the majority of movie goers enjoyed KOTCS enough to see it a few times. If Steven, George and Harrison can come up with another script they all like.. will see another one of these. And I for one would love to see another one.
I'm with Ktrek on this one. Couldn't wait to go and see it at the cinema and was very disappointed in the whole thing, not to mention watching scenes "borrowed" from the first "Mummy" film. The film offered nothing new to the story arc, some of the scenes were preposterous (fridge) and the characters (other than Indy) had no depth at all.
I rank this film worse than Temple of Doom and I hated that one straight off as well.
I do wonder whether its our own expectations that make a film poor sometimes. Afterall if a franchise comes back after a long break do our "rose coloured spectacles" get in the way, or is it just too hard to follow up a good thing?
I'm with Kenny. I won't go into the likes or dislikes once again. I do feel that if they have a script the three main makers of these movies like we will see one more go. They might even feel like they want to really go wild and top themselves. Recall how "Attack of the Clones" was generally better than "Phantom Menace" after a long lapse between "Star Wars" films. I think it is quite possible another Indy movie could be great!
I didn't like the majority of the movie BUT I would go see another one if they made it. I believe that Spielberg and Lucas know what worked and what didn't and would take a different approach if they make another one. I have been reading and really loving "The Complete Making of Indiana Jones" and even Lucas acknowledges that "Temple of Doom" was darker than he intended (he was divorcing his wife Marsha at the time) but he came bake with a much better effort with "Last Crusade".
As I said in my review, "Crystal Skull" started off great but got lost on the way. Keep the story simple, keep the action fun without being too comical, and bring back the sense of fun, and they could really give the fans what they deserve.
Glad to hear you are hopeful about another film Bryan. I just hope if they do one that it's not just a passing of the torch to Indy's son now that we know he has a kid.
Quote from: Rico on July 01, 2008, 05:24:37 AM
Glad to hear you are hopeful about another film Bryan. I just hope if they do one that it's not just a passing of the torch to Indy's son now that we know he has a kid.
Agreed, Harrison still has a never round left in him. :)
Only Harrison should wear the hat. Nothing more can be said. Indiana Jones is Harrison.