Review of Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981) by Marin M — 30 Jun 2018

Perhaps the greatest adventure movie ever filmed.

Director Steven Spielberg reinvents the action genre in 1981 with Raiders of the Lost Ark as it is a fun adventure the whole family can enjoy. Endless jokes and crafty set pieces lead you on a journey around the world. Raiders of the Lost Ark is written with a sarcastic and clever tone by Lawrence Kasdan. This is great screenwriting. Spielberg makes good use of miniatures, practical effects, special effects, close ups, wide shots, and tracking panning shots all throughout Raiders. You will be hard pressed to find a more fast paced adventure film than Raiders of the Lost Ark.

John Williams composed the most uplifting score of his career as you are swept off your feet as soon as you hear the Indiana Jones theme kick in. The music accompanies the tense moments and thrilling action sequences alike with an apt sonic swirl. I love the Indiana Jones soundtrack to this day.

Harrison Ford is so likable and relatable as the bumbling yet intelligent Indiana Jones. You believe he can fight with some difficulty, while also believing in his archaeological prowess.

Likewise, Karen Allen is deft and cool as Marion Ravenwood, Indiana Jones' love interest and romantic foil. Allen is excellent as adventurer, rough house fighter, as well as the romantic leading lady. She is funny and sweet, while always giving Raiders of the Lost Ark some much appreciated verbal thrashing. I think Karen Allen was well suited as Indiana's opposite.

In conclusion, Raiders of the Lost Ark holds up today with a swift adventure feel. You always believe in Indiana Jones from his lectures, to his home, to his action sequences. It is as much fun as when I first saw it as a kid.