After having his latest quest foiled by a rival and making a daring escape from Peru, archaeologist Henry "Indiana" Jones (Harrison Ford) returns to his teaching post where government officials apprise him that the Nazis are seeking out one of his former colleagues. From there, Jones embarks on a perilous, continent spanning expedition after realizing the vile dogs are in search of the Ark of the Covenant, which they believe will make their armies indestructible. Revisiting Raiders of the Lost Ark, I was surprised to find it a great deal cheesier than I remembered a kid when it always struck me as grown up (in a good way). Spielberg's classic action/adventure nod to Saturday Morning serials is brazenly mounted, occasionally over the top, but impeccably carried out, and still a whole lotta fun. The film is well cast and although Ford and Karen Allen leave little to be desired in the acting department, both hold tremendous appeal.
*** 1/2 out of ****
*** 1/2 out of ****
