Review: Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (2008)
The true ending of Indiana Jones.
★★★½
I was among the many who dismissed this film. At the time, I only cared about the original three Indiana Jones movies, and this one seemed like an unnecessary addition. However, that all changed around the time "Dial of Destiny" was announced, which made me reconsider the place of "Kingdom of the Crystal Skull" in the franchise.
Before going to see the 5th film, I decided it was the perfect time to revisit this and to my surprise, I actually enjoyed it. Something about the film's blend of nostalgia and new elements worked for me in a way I hadn't expected.
The idea for this came after George Lucas had just finished the Star Wars prequels. Steven Spielberg said he didn't want to make another Indiana Jones film after he ended the third film on a good note. But George wanted to tell once final story to wrap everything up, which Spielberg eventually agreed to.
Instead of setting this film in the 1930s like the previous films, George and Steven chose to set it in the 1950s, reflecting the Cold War era and introducing new themes and challenges for Indiana Jones. This was a refreshing take cause it allows us to see how Indiana Jones would fit in the changing world.
Harrison Ford, like always, delivers a solid performance, bringing his signature charm and ruggedness to the role. It's clear he still enjoys playing Indiana Jones, and that enthusiasm translates well on screen. In fact, the dude loves playing Indiana Jones. For a man in his 60s, Harrison looked amazing. He even shares some great moments with Shia LaBeouf, who plays his son, Mutt Williams.
Speaking of Shia LaBeouf, his performance was a mixed bag. While he brought energy and a certain rebellious charm to the character, some of his scenes felt a bit forced or out of place. Nevertheless, he did try, kind of. The only reason he was cast is that Spielberg liked his performance as Stanley Yelnats in "Holes (2003)." Probably LaBeouf's only good performance in his entire career.
Cate Blanchett plays the villain Irina Spalko. She was fantastic, bringing a cold and calculating presence that added a lot to the film's tension. Anything Cate Blanchett does is fantastic. She was one of the few new cast members that made this film worthwhile. Even if the script wasn't perfect and the writing for her character.
Karen Allen returns as Marion Ravenwood, bringing back the familiar charm and strength that fans loved from the original films. Marion has always been my favorite Indy girl. But, if you asked me when I was 10 years younger, I would've said Elsa Schneider (Alison Doody) because of how hot she was.
It makes sense why Marion would be the mother of Indy's child, but I have to ask, when was Henry Jones III, aka, Mutt, conceived? After Raiders or during? Also, if Indy didn't want to be a father, why didn't he pull out or use protection? That's something I never understood.
The plot isn't as strong as the previous Indy films, but it's still a fun one, nevertheless. Although it does get kind of ridiculous at times. Especially when George and Steven blend in science fiction. The aliens part confused me. There's also the fridge scene, which everyone loves to hate on, but I just try to pretend it doesn't exist.
Upon this latest rewatch, I realize this is a fun movie. If I don't think about it too much, I can have a good time with this. Plus, it is still really well made. George and Steven love and respect the craft of filmmaking, and it shows. Steven is a good director, and George is very creative with his ideas, imagination, and special effects. That's what makes the two a great team.
I'm actually glad I was able to revisit this. I was totally wrong about this movie all along. Hell, I might even watch it again soon. Especially since I bought it on DVD to add to my collection.