#1

Rating: 10/10 (6 February 2000)

Everybody knows that "Raiders of the Lost Ark" is one of the greatest films ever made. I almost feel like I'm wasting my time commenting further on it. However, since I rank it at #1, I feel the need to justify it.
The amount of talent on board the filmmaking staff is staggering, and the film benefits most from their inspiring of each other. Steven Spielberg's direction is impeccable. He has an unparalleled ability to visually tell a story. Clearly this man was put on Earth to make films. Together with the creative mind of George Lucas, the great scripting of Lawrence Kasdan, and the masterful musical score from the master himself, John Williams, Spielberg makes us a part of the experience to the point where we forget we are watching a movie. And let's not forget Harrison Ford as Indiana Jones. Can you imagine how much the picture would have lost had Tom Selleck, the original star of the film, had stayed on instead of Ford? Ford's expressions, deliveries, and general mannerisms make the character his own. No matter the incredible and often superhuman tasks he pulls off, he's still just a regular Joe that with whom we can empathize.
"Raiders" can be viewed again and again while the viewer's interest never fades. It stops channel surfing in a heartbeat, despite editing and commercials. When it's on, I'm just plain glad that I'm watching it. It is perfect right down to the famous final shot (which tips its hat to the Godfather of American film: "Citizen Kane"). What more can I say that hasn't already been said? It is my favorite film.
Grade: A+