The action/adventure film that all others should be measured by...

Rating: 9/10 (20 February 2001)

I just had a chance to see `Raiders of the Lost Ark' in the Cinerama format that serves it so well It is too bad that the prints were not up to the screening.
This is the time to see `Raiders..' on the big screen if you possibly can: the prints are already deteriorating and it will not be long before you will not be able to see it on anything but an edited version on the small screen or on video tape  neither one of which serves full justice to this magnificent film.
The un-edited, full-screen version had a few surprises; not just language but a couple of scenes that are routinely cut from broadcast television; and, even with the best home theater system, you will not be able to get the full effect of the magnificent score by John Williams.
This is one of those all-too-rare films that are as close to perfect as is possible.
The attention to detail is more than just amazing  it is breath taking As an example  when the Ark of the Covenant is finally exposed it would have been so much easier to just have it be'  but instead it is slowly lifted out of the case that holds it; allowing there to be a certain amount of suspense and a few good special effects to be used  the darn thing glows!  just as the word of god would glow.
There is action, suspense, drama, comedy, horrible villains, incredible heroes and so much more.
This is a film for the ages  and should be seen on the BIG screen if at all possible.