Indiana Jones and His Next Great Adventure

Little did any American believe that Indiana Jones would be back on the big screen. Many of us had dreamed, but few of us had hope that was grounded in facts. Well, many years after his last great crusade, who should appear but Jones Junior. With the same adventurous yet corny spirit, everyone has prepared for "Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull" with joy and great anticipation. Was it worth the price of the popcorn?

Harrison Ford was as ever the adventurous and witty "Indiana Jones." This time he is twenty years older and feeling a little of his age. This time he is not fighting the Nazis, but the Russian communists. As always, Ford approaches his role with just the right amount of wit and bravery. Although there is a little less brashness and a little more of a exploration into the emotional side of the character.

Cate Blanchett plays "Dr. Irina Spalko," a Russian communist who is out to seek those mystical objects that will help further her country into powerful warfare. Cold, calculating, and quiet she slightly channels those traits that the old movie star Greta Garbo had. Although almost slipping out of her accent a couple times, she approaches this role as any of her other roles, with a deep insight into her characters and strong professionalism.

Shia LaBeouf plays "Mutt," a greaser who is out to retrieve his childhood mentor "Oxley" (played by John Hurt), who is kidnapped by the Russians. Along the way he enlists "Indiana" who is an old friend of "Oxley's." LaBeouf could become the next Tom Hanks of our generation. From comedy to drama he not only plays it well, but his fits the feeling of this film well. His performance also adds that special touch of youth and energy that the movie so badly needs.