A smart, fun adventure movie for Indiana Jones and history buffs alike

Rating: 9/10 (20 June 2008)

This film and its predecessor conveyed the intangible sense of adventure and exploration which has so long been lost in a sea of mindless CGI-special effects extravaganzas. While certainly the movie has its share of special effects, it also has both a fun plot, a brain, and even a message about human nature near the end. The story-telling could be more complex, as could the villain-turned-martyr, but for an action movie, I found that it left me feeling good about the two hours I'd used to experience it. While certain liberties had to be taken with regards to historical accuracy, the movie did well to subtly separate fact from fabrication, and the viewer is left knowing some incredibly interesting things that will leave you curious to learn more. As for what those things are, and what they are not, don't let a review ruin it for you. See it for yourself. If you let yourself enjoy the film, rather than getting too hung up in whatever flaws it may have, you will find this a good experience.
If you are looking for another "Ghost Rider", thankfully, this is not what you are looking for. If you liked the first film and want a similar adventure, this is it. Note you do not have to see the first film in order to understand this one.