Movies
Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull
Roller Coaster Ride
Tom Cravens
Like any good Roller Coaster ride, it starts slow, but once headed downhill, rumbles on nonstop. The twists and turns are reminiscent of the previous Indiana Jones movies, but in new and innovative ways.
Harrison Ford slips into character as easily as picking up his hat off the ground. He is going up against the Russians this time during the 50’s cold war. Shia LaBeouf fits right into the time frame of the story as Mutt; a late teen rebelling against school, but worried about his mom and a family friend (John Hurt). Marion (Karen Allen) went to Peru to find their friend, and sends back a letter asking Mutt to seek help from Indiana.
Digital Effects
The digital effects are seamless with the ongoing action, and is done superbly. Whether it is racing to Peru just the way they did it in the 50’s movies, or being chased by ants, it is all very believable. Yet, the effects never overwhelm the human story; a son searching for his mom, friends helping one another, and how evil can happen to you at anytime, even while teaching at the local university.
This movie is a great adventure, but in my opinion, not for younger children who might be susceptible to nightmares.
The Sky Is The Limit
Cozy Cravens
Indiana Jones and the Crystal Skull have all the ear markings of a very high budget film. When Spielberg and Lucas get together it seems like the sky is the limit. The movie had all the intrigue, adventure and stunts we come to expect in such movies. However, with movie magic, make-up, and special effects it managed to hold its own with previous Indiana movies. As usual Marion (Karen Allen) and Indiana (Harrison Ford) played well off each other; on the other hand, newcomer on the scene, Mutt (Shia LaBeouf) needs some work. I found him not as convincing in his character. Is there a future for Mutt as an archaeologist/adventurer in the future? We will see. The new generation needs a young Indiana Jones, but personally, I like the older sexier Indiana. If he can still move it, let him remain on screen. I enjoy watching the interaction of Indiana and Marion.
Extraterrestrial Artifact
Previous Indiana Jones movies focused on the search for religious artifacts, but this movie focused on the extraterrestrial artifact. It seemed more out there than usual. The special effects were outstanding; of course I wouldn’t expect anything less from Spielberg and Lucas. I don’t like snakes any way, any how, but the devouring red ants really had me squirming in my seat. I felt they were crawling all over me.
Parents should consider their child’s age and sensitivity to scary scenes before going to the movie. I plan on getting this movie for my collection when it comes on DVD.
Non Stop Action
Ron Smith
The Russians are looking for a Crystal Skull that can control the minds of the entire population of the earth. Indiana tries to prevent this from happening and the Adventure begins.
Harrison Ford is back; like he never left, kickin butt with a smooth rhythm and ease. Karen Allen has a little more wear, but still has the coolness as in the original film, ‘Raiders of the lost Ark.’
Cate Blanchett plays the villain Ireina, a very sexy Russian Officer.
The film starts out with a bang; as expected, non-stop action follows with a few surprises and some that are figured out at the beginning.
Action, Action, Action. On the edge of Peril, with good humor thrown in. It is a fun movie, not as good as the original but all in all. Enjoyable.
The paranormal doesn’t quite work for me but it is a fantasy.
We can still put our hopes on the future of the earth in the hands of Indiana Jones, and be assured that the outcome will be favorable.
I recommend this film. It was fun to watch.