You call this archeology?

Rating: 10/10 (7 May 2006)

When two powerful cinematic phenomenons come together, you know that the storm that will result won't be a light drizzle.
So when Steven Spielberg and George Lucas work on the same project, prepare yourself for a thrill ride. And that's exactly what "Raiders of the Lost Ark" is.
While the ultimate goal is to find the Lost Ark, the steps include a plenty whole lot of dangers, stunts, spectacular tricks and freaky other things. This leads to a re-definition of the archeology term...
During all the movie, I never asked myself what made it good or bad. I was simply absorbed by it. I couldn't put off my eyes from the screen. There's always something fairly exciting that happens at every moment or so.
Spielberg once said that he would like to direct a Bond film. Well, if he's not chosen, it's not because he can't do the job. The action scenes and the special effects are simply great and entertaining. And the variety of stunts is highly imaginative. I particularly liked the fight near the airplane and the car and truck chase during the Ark transport.
But the best part of the movie is certainly the Ark's opening at the end. What follows is a masterful pyrotechnic, explosive and visually dazzling special effects extravaganza. Even if you try to look elsewhere, you simply couldn't. These wonderful scenes catch your eyes and never let them go. It's wonderful, period.
Although I prefer the third movie, I must admit that the first is the best of the three (like in a lot of cases). And the best thing about "Raiders of the Lost Ark" is that it became a cultural icon for years to come. It's now a synonym of adventure and Indiana Jones is a symbol too.
But if you want to become an archaeologist, do not expect to live things that way...
Rankings: Best: RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK 2nd best: Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade Worst: Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom