The character of legendary archeologist Indiana Jones (Harrison Ford), makes his final appearance in Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny. This film marks the first in the series since Disney’s acquisition of Lucasfilm and the first without the involvement of George Lucas or the direction of Steven Spielberg. James Mangold steps into the director’s role, tasked with delivering a satisfying conclusion to the series, and making it up to the fans for the less-than-stellar Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull.
As the film begins, we find ourselves in the final days of World War II. The impending defeat of the Nazis triggers a mass exodus of their looted archaeological treasures, drawing Jones into the fray.
Fast forward to 1969, the world is gearing up to celebrate the lunar astronauts’ return. Meanwhile, Jones grapples with impending retirement from teaching and personal life challenges. His goddaughter, Helena (Phoebe Waller-Bridge), reappears from his past, reminding him of a past disagreement with her father over the fabled Dial of Destiny. Earlier in the film, Indiana and her father had managed to retrieve half of it.
Simultaneously, former Nazi scientist Jurgen Voller (Mads Mikkelsen), now celebrated for his role in the moon landing, plots to acquire both parts of the Dial. With a legion of deadly assassins at his disposal, he sets his sights on Jones and Shaw.
The film doesn’t rush into action. Instead, it intersperses it throughout the narrative. While it may not offer the special effects-laden spectacle modern audiences expect, the action scenes are generally satisfying. Considering the title character is nearing 80, his action sequences are remarkably impressive. In one scene, he humorously downplays the toll his past adventures have taken on his body.
Some fans might argue the film lacks sufficient action or a compelling hook. However, true fans of the series should appreciate this fitting tribute to the aging adventurer. John Williams’ new music sets the film’s tone perfectly.
Ford and Waller-Bridge share a strong on-screen chemistry, and a few surprise guests along the way should delight fans. Personally, I found this film more satisfying than the last two. It focuses on themes of life, loss, aging, and morality, rather than an action-packed treasure hunt.
“Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny” will resonate differently with different people. For me, it’s a heartfelt farewell to a beloved character, cementing the iconic Jones as a true cinematic classic.
4 stars out of 5
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Gareth is the mastermind behind the popular pop media site Skewed and Reviewed. He lives in Arizona with his wife Em McBride.
