Raiders of the Lost Ark (Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark) (1981)

Featured Audience Ratings

• Tim S

  
  When it comes to adventure movies with class that are well-made pieces of cinema, I can't think of a better example than the brainchild of George Lucas and Steven Spielberg. I'm talking about the great Raiders of the Lost Ark (or Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark… More
  When it comes to adventure movies with class that are well-made pieces of cinema, I can't think of a better example than the brainchild of George Lucas and Steven Spielberg. I'm talking about the great Raiders of the Lost Ark (or Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark as they title it on the box art now). It's one of the last truly great action adventure films of the last thirty years that not only delivers on the genre's expectations, but also turns in remarkable performances, beautiful photography and incredible production values. It may have come first in the eventual series of films, but it's also the best. I also consider it to be one of the top five best films of Spielberg's entire career. Everything just came together like clockwork on this movie and it turned out better than anyone expected. It also holds up incredibly well as a dynamic and well-made popcorn movie. There would be sequels with the runaway success of the movie, of course, but this entry is a perfect mixture of talent, and it will never be topped, no matter how many sequels they make.

• Eric A

  
  Wow, where to begin. The first scene is one of the most iconic set pieces ever created, what a way to kick the movie off. Just looking at the names before viewing, I knew it was going to be amazing: Speilberg (director), Lucas (producer), and Ford (lead actor)! The acting was on… More
  Wow, where to begin. The first scene is one of the most iconic set pieces ever created, what a way to kick the movie off. Just looking at the names before viewing, I knew it was going to be amazing: Speilberg (director), Lucas (producer), and Ford (lead actor)! The acting was on point, the action scenes were thrilling, and it was suspenseful throughout its entirety. Truly one of a kind.

• Thomas B

  
  It's tough to fault a film which begins with one of the very greatest set-pieces of all time and one of the most iconic images in film. Raiders of the Lost Ark's constant "outdo the last scene" mentality means that each scene is more bombastic than the last, moving… More
  It's tough to fault a film which begins with one of the very greatest set-pieces of all time and one of the most iconic images in film. Raiders of the Lost Ark's constant "outdo the last scene" mentality means that each scene is more bombastic than the last, moving from a giant boulder rolling after our hero to a nail biting truck ride through the desert to the head-melting power of the ark itself. As well as this we have the introduction one of the greatest characters ever committed to celluloid, one of the most recognisable scores of all time and one of the most whip-smart and funny scripts of the 80s. And besides all these technical factors the overriding factor of the film is the fact that it's fun. Constantly. Impossibly, ludicrously, timelessly fun. When Indiana Jones is set on the hunt for the legendary Ark of the Covenant, he soon finds out that he's not the only one and that his competitors will stop at nothing to get there first. Stephen Spielberg had already made some incredible films, Jaws being the main one with Sugarland Express and Close Encounters of the Third as well. But he'd just made his first truly bad film with 1941 and he needed to get back on track. Well, he did. In his typically restrained though rich imagery, Spielberg makes every shot count every time. His understanding of his audience is shown through the nuance of each shot, whether it's the zoom in on a slowly turning Indy as he sees the boulder bearing down on him or the wide expanse of a hillside teeming with bloodthirsty natives. The fact that he's able to sustain this inspired imagery the whole way through the film shows his immense passion and expertise in his craft. He's able to handle the big moments as well as the smaller ones like the moments between Marion and Indy. He also subtly adds humour into everything he does, something added to immensely by Harrison Ford's fantastic performance as Indy. It's this performance that elevates the already fantastic character of Indiana Jones to something mythical. Whether it's a wry smile or a look of complete confusion, Harrison Ford creates a character who is not only someone to root for but also completely human in his limitations and the fact that, in his own words, "I'm just making this up as I go!" Karen Allen plays Marion Ravenwood, a girl with more fire than most of the action hero dames of late. She, like Ford manages to wring humour out of every situation as well being damn scary in others. Critically, and here's where all other action movies should take not, she's not just the princess to be rescued. Sure there are times when she in trouble and calling for Indy to give her a hand, but a lot of the time she's working on getting herself out of trouble, drinking her captors under the table before whipping out a knife, fighting side by side with Indy, she is in no way Indy's inferior and she's brilliant to boot. Thanfully we don't get treated to a spiel about women are just as good as men, preferring to talk with her actions. These two are a fantastic double act as well as being great on their own. Their often fiery conversations are as hilarious as they are telling about the undercurrent of sexual tension and they constantly try to outdo each other. The rest of the cast perform well too, John Rhys-Davies' Sallah is a booming delight and Paul Freemon's Belloq is fantastic as well. Whether you've seen the film or not, it's difficult to have gone through life without hearing John Williams' amazing score. A perfect combination of upbeat and triumphant, Williams' main theme soars through the thrilling moments, making them that much more thrilling to watch. Typical of Williams he punctuates the action, drama and thrills to equal effect, each one with its own iconic sound and each one linking together in a beautiful harmony. It's an amazing achievement though, in a body of work this incredible, it's almost just another day at the office for Williams. He is the undisputed master of score and this is one of his most unforgettable masterpieces. Lawrence Kasdan's script is another of the factors in an already fantastic movie. Each line is quotable and memorable, specifically because he never says more than he has to say. In a brilliant display of understanding his character, Kasdan offers up lines which suit Indy to a tee; funny, dry and sardonic. The delivery of the actors may makeable certifiable gold but Kasdan's words should be an inspiration to action writers from now till kingdom come. There might only be a dozen films ever made that you can watch anytime in any mood and this is among them. Vintage Spielberg, Ford at the top of his game and, of course, that theme. What more could you want? Defining Scene: That first brilliant scene. Despite the increasingly fantastic action set-pieces, for a start to a film and an introduction to a character, you don't get much better than this. Quotes: Where shall I find a new adversary so close to my own level? Try the sewer. Throw me the idol, I'll throw you the whip! You're not the man I knew ten years ago. It's not the years honey, it's the mileage. Snake. Why'd it have to be snakes? Asps. Very dangerous. You go first. I don't know, I'm making this up as I go!

• Martin S

  
  I'm not the biggest fan...But it's a classic. Don't really is much to say.

• Sanjaya &

  
  It's a great start for our favorite archeologist, Indiana Jones, to start his journey.. Steven Spielberg made another well-packed action movie that made the audience will having some fun while watching it.. I must say Harrison Ford successfully playing the character Indiana Jones… More
  It's a great start for our favorite archeologist, Indiana Jones, to start his journey.. Steven Spielberg made another well-packed action movie that made the audience will having some fun while watching it.. I must say Harrison Ford successfully playing the character Indiana Jones which looks a little bit like James Bond when he get closer to woman, while Karen Allen made the movie more lively with her performance as a brave young woman.. The story itself was okay, at least I have fun while watching it.. John Williams made a great and memorable score for this movie.. Overall, it's not a really great movie, but it's particularly a good movie to be watched, especially for family fun..

• Alexander D

  
  I just watched RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK for the fifth time in July, and I noticed more than I ever had before. It's a great film, an instant classic, and a successful hit to be remembered.

• shahmeer h

  
  Let me start by saying that this was one of the most excellent films of the 80s. Exciting, fast-paced, and a masterpiece itself. The debt that Harrison Ford brings to his character is outstanding, and nothing made his carreer lift off as well as this. This film is perfect in many… More
  Let me start by saying that this was one of the most excellent films of the 80s. Exciting, fast-paced, and a masterpiece itself. The debt that Harrison Ford brings to his character is outstanding, and nothing made his carreer lift off as well as this. This film is perfect in many ways, besides the dialogue. but for right now, I'll start with the story. The idea of finding the Lost Ark is not very original, for it was attempted many times in real life. But the fact that an archeoligist, inside a Nazi camp, with plenty of back-stabbers, and the sexiest, most beatiful women he'll ever meet AND trying to find the lost ark. Now thats original. Then the acting in this film is pure goodness. Sadly, Harrison Ford wasw robbed of a nomination-yes, not an award, but a NOMINATION- and thats just sad for the Academy. The acting by lead actress Karen Allen isnt as good as I hoped, but still a passing grade. Which is just one of the reasons why I gave this film an 8, not an expected 10, like most people. So, acting is good. Then comes the cinematagrophy. Wow. Next is the sound and soundtrack. This main theme might have been one of the best ever. Its one of the most recognizable, and it is such a pity that it didn't win the Academy Award. John Williams seemed to have put in a ton of effort into building this soundtrack, and it paid off. Never has a main theme been more enjoyable to listen to, other than Star War's and Pirates of the Carribean's. It will live on not in just movie history, but musical history, as well. Then I move on to the special effects. The special effects in this film were very gratifying, especially in the 80s. When I saw this film, I could've sworn it wasn't a movie from the 20th century. But, as usual, the wonders if film tricked me again. What great effects and what genuine editing. It's all simply marvelous. But then I move on to what mainly gave this movie an 8. The dialogue. Some of the dialogue in this film was to much to handle, and I really couldn't. When the dialogue was good, it was alright, but when it was bad, it was horrible. And most of the time it was bad. "You can't do this to me, I'm an AMERICAN," was one of the most memorable quotes. Yes, most memorable. But I wont complain anymore, because all in all, this film is as adventure films get. In the end, I give it a deserving 80/100

• Brad W

  
  One of the greatest films of its time, it was amazing. Harrison Ford was born for this role, he oozes cool and excitement in an amazing way. The plots a work of art because it brings together bible legends, puzzles, treasure, and one of the greatest stories ever made. Music has… More
  One of the greatest films of its time, it was amazing. Harrison Ford was born for this role, he oozes cool and excitement in an amazing way. The plots a work of art because it brings together bible legends, puzzles, treasure, and one of the greatest stories ever made. Music has stood the test of time and the theme is classic. Chase scenes and action moments were well done and totally Spielbergs work. Love this movie.

• Film C

  
  i love the indiana jones franchise, they are all interesting, exciting and funny. I love the storylines and i love harrison ford as the lead. This is just an entertaining and enjoyable movie that i cant fault and should be watched.

• Michael G

  
  Raiders of the Lost Ark is as every bit as great when I watched it at 36 as it was when I originally saw it in the theater at 6. It serves as a great story and could also pass for a series of great scenes. Its obviously the best of the series and Harrison Ford has rarely been better.… More
  Raiders of the Lost Ark is as every bit as great when I watched it at 36 as it was when I originally saw it in the theater at 6. It serves as a great story and could also pass for a series of great scenes. Its obviously the best of the series and Harrison Ford has rarely been better. The action is as great as the story and its got just the right amount of humor. And the villains, anytime you have Nazis as the bad guys you know you're probably in for something good. If you don't enjoy this move even remotely you've got serious problems and need to see a neurologist. And if you haven't seen Raiders of the Lost Ark and you're currently ambulatory, what the hell are you waiting for?

• Jeff "

  
  Indiana Jones and The Raiders of the Lost Ark is quite possibly one of the greatest action adventure films ever made. The film is one of the most entertaining action adventure film and remains to this day a classic of the genre. Harrison Ford thrills as the cinematic hero Indiana… More
  Indiana Jones and The Raiders of the Lost Ark is quite possibly one of the greatest action adventure films ever made. The film is one of the most entertaining action adventure film and remains to this day a classic of the genre. Harrison Ford thrills as the cinematic hero Indiana Jones a not so by the books type of Archeologist. His weapons are a revolver, a bullwhip and his fists. Not since James Bond has a character been so electrifying.In Raiders Of The Lost Ark, Indana Jones is hired by the U.S government to the the Ark of the covenant before an expedition sent from Nazi Germany finds it, and is able to walk all over the face of the earth. Raiders is an awesome action packed adventure and it definitely delivers on action and thrills that will please audiences looking for the ultimate in thrills. Raiders Of The Lost Ark is one of the Action films ever filmed. Steven Spielberg crafts a phenomenal adventure with a script by Star Wars creator George Lucas, aside from the original Star Wars trilogy, Indiana Jones has got to be the best thing that Lucas created. Having both Spielberg and Lucas working together, they deliver a solid film that will entertain you viewing after viewing. What makes this film so timeless is the terrific story, acting and suspense. Raiders remains one of the definitive action adventure films often immitated, but never matched this classic stands alone and is one of Spielberg's best films.

• Bently L

  
  Henry Jones, Jr. is a part-time college history teacher who has a deep obsession for studying some of the world's greatest historical artifacts and then going on a quest to find them. He later dons a fedora hat and wraps a whip around his shoulder and becomes Indiana Jones! In… More
  Henry Jones, Jr. is a part-time college history teacher who has a deep obsession for studying some of the world's greatest historical artifacts and then going on a quest to find them. He later dons a fedora hat and wraps a whip around his shoulder and becomes Indiana Jones! In this film, he teams up with Marion Ravenwood, his love intrest, and a smart and funny excavator, Sallah, to search for the Ark of the Covenant. But them corrupt Nazis will stop at nothing to get the Ark first. George Lucas and Stephen Spielberg's "Raiders of the Lost Ark" is supposed to be a throwback to the globe-trotting, adventure movie serials from the 1950's. They also wanted to make their own Bond-like character. What a coincedence! They later went on to have Sean Connery in the third film. Hahaha! The result is a smart and fun film. There is no other man that can play Indiana Jones than good ol' Harrison Ford! His acting and witty sense of humor fit the character perfectly. Karen Allen is perfect as Marion Underwood and the supporting cast, even Alfred Molina, are fantastic! The visuals in "Raiders" are amazing. The cinematography is also at its finest! Indiana Jones makes the dry and barren places he travels to more exciting because hes there! The visuals really help make the villains' demises in this film one of the most magical and beautiful thing I ever laid eyes on. This film is amazing, well-written, fun, and is a pure classic! "Raiders of the Lost Ark" is such a fantastic movie. It has made an impact on cinema so much. Take "National Treasure" for a change. "Raiders of the Lost Ark" is unavoidable! Indiana Jones rocks! "Where shall I find a new adversary so close to my own level?" Indy really made an impact on pop culture: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l3CpFhtakrA

• AJ V

  
  The first, the best, the original Indiana Jones movie! If you like action adventure and excitement, don't miss this classic film.

• Candy R

  
  The first of the Indiana movies, which shows Indy and Marion try to retrieve the Lost Ark from the Nazis. Great action movie.

• Dan S

  
  Irrefutably one of the cleverest, most creative, and enthralling action/adventure films ever constructed. This is hands down one of my favorite films, thanks to a strong, confident lead performance by Harrison Ford, an unforgettable conclusion, and some goofy humor thrown in for good… More
  Irrefutably one of the cleverest, most creative, and enthralling action/adventure films ever constructed. This is hands down one of my favorite films, thanks to a strong, confident lead performance by Harrison Ford, an unforgettable conclusion, and some goofy humor thrown in for good measure. It is without question one of the most exciting films I have sat through, and it is one that never gets old frankly. It is really a perfect action/adventure movie, it gets everything right, and it is incredibly re-watchable.

• Keiko A

  
  NAZIS, ADVENTURE, LOST ARK? And I thought dead snow was awesome. Raiders of the lost ark is hands down the best adventure film ever made it has everything action, romance, comedy, and suspense, Harrison ford what more could you ask for? When I was young I think I watched this at least… More
  NAZIS, ADVENTURE, LOST ARK? And I thought dead snow was awesome. Raiders of the lost ark is hands down the best adventure film ever made it has everything action, romance, comedy, and suspense, Harrison ford what more could you ask for? When I was young I think I watched this at least 100-400 times and it has since become one of my top ten easy and I am sure everyone will agree. The year is 1936. A professor who studies archeology named Indiana Jones is venturing in the jungles in South America searching for a golden statue. Unfortunately, he sets off a deadly trap doing so, miraculously, he escapes. Then, Jones hears from a museum curator named Marcus Brody about a biblical artifact called The Ark of the Covenant, which can hold the key to humanly existence. Jones has to venture to vast places such as Nepal and Egypt to find this artifact. However, he will have to fight his enemy Renee Belloq and a band of Nazis in order to reach it. 100% for story ONE OF THE BEST ONES EVER 100% for acting Harrison fords best movie. All the performances are amazing. 100% for special effects as long as Steven or Lucas don't ruin it with CGI everything will be fine. 100% for characters are epic Indiana Jones IS THE BEST CHARACTER EVER 100% for everything else. EVRYTHING IS AWESOME Everyone that has not seen raiders see it what is wrong with you people??????? Keiko's score 100% (easy)

• KJ P

  
  Raiders of the Lost Ark is by no means a perfect film, but it is certainly a brilliant one. Harrison Ford works wonders here as a fight for the possession of the wonderous ark is on the rise. There are no flaws, but the second half of the film is where it really got me. The first half… More
  Raiders of the Lost Ark is by no means a perfect film, but it is certainly a brilliant one. Harrison Ford works wonders here as a fight for the possession of the wonderous ark is on the rise. There are no flaws, but the second half of the film is where it really got me. The first half is a bit slow for my taste, but it picks up around the middle, creating a fantasy adventure for everyone to love. The ending made my jaw-drop, and the outcome is brilliant. Such an amazing motion picture.

• Jens S

  
  Spielberg, Lucas and Ford created one of the most beloved franchises of all, taking a bow before the pulp cliffhanger shows and novels of the early 20th century. The result is nothing less than the most iconic adventure film of our time, which has it all: fantastic production design… More
  Spielberg, Lucas and Ford created one of the most beloved franchises of all, taking a bow before the pulp cliffhanger shows and novels of the early 20th century. The result is nothing less than the most iconic adventure film of our time, which has it all: fantastic production design and settings, great special effects, unique characters, breathless action sequences and plenty of humor. Often copied, never reached.

• Corey W

  
  This first installment of the famous Indiana Jones series is without a doubt a gem! Just pure enjoyment from start to finish!

• Phil H

  
  Along with 'Star Wars' and 'Back to the Future' this is one of the legendary trilogies. You can't get much better than this, the action, mystery, romance, dashing hero, evil baddies, elements of historic facts involved, spirits n ghosties, big scary traps and… More
  Along with 'Star Wars' and 'Back to the Future' this is one of the legendary trilogies. You can't get much better than this, the action, mystery, romance, dashing hero, evil baddies, elements of historic facts involved, spirits n ghosties, big scary traps and all done by Spielberg and Lucas...bloody hell!. This looks good, sounds good, its funny, tense and makes you feel good at the end. The classic cast, the universal theme, its just legendary, no questions. Who hasn't wanted to be Indy?

Read all 20 featured audience ratings