Raiders of the Lost Ark

Who can remember first seeing this movie in the theater? I can, it was in Monticello, Minnesota back in 1981 that I was first introduced to Indiana Jones. Of course, I was only 9, but I was a huge Star Wars fan. So I remembered seeing Han Solo in the trailers, donning a hat and whip, but really didn't know much more about the movie. Han Solo was enough for me to see the movie. We walked into the theater, my family and I, not knowing what we were going to see. The end of the movie came and we felt like it was an experience. It was and always will be one that I will not forget.

An archaeologist, out for the good of mankind, seeks the treasures that they're so famous for discovering. He's a teacher and an archaeologist with a major dislike of snakes, he yields a whip, and maintains a charming yet gruff character. Yes, this is Indiana Jones. This is the first of the three Indiana Jones movies released. With Steven Spielberg at the helm this was destined for greatness.

This had the suspense, the thrills, the comedy, and the romance. What more could a movie ask for? Okay it's a partial war movie too. It's Indiana Jones versus the Nazis, now that's a definite sight to see.

This has some of the most memorable scenes around. I think my personal favorite was the scene where this monstrous Arab walks out from the crowd, he has a huge blade and is laughing at Indy. What's Indy do? He reaches for his holster pulls out his pistol and ends the threat. It's simple and funny. That's what makes that scene so memorable to me.

Of course, Steven Spielberg has many award winners under his belt, but this is probably one of my favorites. Harrison Ford, who later was nominated for his performance in Witness, is Indiana Jones. He's teamed with a tumultuous cute brunette, Karen Allen, of Starman fame. This was made for greatness, from the very beginning. It now remains one of the most enduring movies of our times.