Retroist Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade Podcast
The man with the hat is back. And this time, he's bringing his Dad.
Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, released in 1989, as the first of the Indy films that I saw by myself. Much like in the other films, it follows the intrepid archaeologist, played by the Harrison Ford, as he embarks on a quest not just for the mythical Holy Grail but also for his estranged father, portrayed by Sean Connery. This new dynamic injects a unique layer of family drama and humor into the series. The chemistry between Ford and Connery is particularly notable, providing both comedic relief and a heartwarming exploration of father-son relationships.
This film marks a return to the lighter-toned roots of the original Raiders of the Lost Ark. Sure, it embraces the classic elements of treasure hunting and globe-trotting escapades, but lacks the horror elements of Temple of Doom. Director Steven Spielberg and producer George Lucas, in what would have been the series capper, masterfully balance action-packed sequences with poignant moments, creating a compelling mix of thrill and sentiment.
This installment also benefits from John Williams’ continued participation. The grandmaster of film music elevates the film. From chasing the Grail to reconciling with his father, Williams tells the story through music that is as re-listenable as the film is re-watchable.
In this episode itself, I’ll delve into how The Last Crusade not only continues the legacy of Indiana Jones but also enhances it. We get backstory and themes of redemption and family relationships that weren’t in the first two films. As with the other two episodes, we will revisit the relationship between the dynamic duo of Spielberg and Lucas that led to this globe-trotting adventure. Whether you're revisiting this film or discovering it for the first time, this films is an amazing cinematic experience that only adds to the unending appeal of Indiana Jones.
Listen and download the Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade Podcast
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Production Notes
This is the 319th episode of the Retroist Podcast and episode 20 of this season.
This is the third episode in a series of podcasts I will be doing about Indiana Jones. I will be covering the original trilogy and more.
Some names I tried really hard to say correctly in this one. I think I did it.
The soundtrack for this film is great. Before recording this, I listened to it infrequently, but not anymore.
While doing a series like this, I try not to repeat myself about the same people over and over. I do repeat some stuff, but try to change it up. Hope that works.
Pepsi AND Coke getting onboard as sponsors.
This is my 3rd favorite of the original trilogy films. I am a sucker for Temple of Doom.
I miss the Burger King I would visit near the theater. You could see the box office while sitting near the window. I liked people-watching the lines of people on these big blockbuster films.
I do wish I could remember what I did when I got home after seeing this film. I am sure I watched TV, but what?
At Suncoast Video, Indy was an easy sell. Just put any of them on the TVs and people would come in and buy them.
I will post the clipping I mention over on Patreon soon. Got some good ones.
Up next, Crystal Skull or Young Indiana Jones Chronicles.
Keeping this up here. I have been having issues with YouTube lately. Until that had been worked out, I will not be posting episodes of the show there. I apologize for the inconvenience.
Follow Lou Lumenick on Twitter. He was my favorite childhood move reviewer.
Music on the show is, as always, by Peachy.
Thanks for listening to the show and I hope you have a great weekend.
You mention that you were holding on to your childhood while others were moving on.. You weren't alone. I was going through the same thing as I'm sure many adolescents have. Hearing you say that was like, "I know all about that!"