Movie Review: ‘Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny’ is a treasure full of jewels, making it the best Indiana Jones since Raiders of the Lost Ark


Indiana Jones (Harrison Ford) in Lucasfilm’s Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny. ©2022 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

The Wipe and the Fedora are back one last time. The final chapter of Indiana Jones (Harrison Ford) showcases what we always have loved about the franchise, a fearless adventure.

In Dial of Destiny, The retired archaeologist must face his past, when Jürgen Voller, a nazi, wants to change the course of history. Now with a mysterious dial known as the Antikythera in the picture, Jones is joined by his goddaughter Helena Shaw (Phoebe Waller-Bridge) who drags Indy into an adventure that is unapologetic. Helena and Indy must come together to stop history from turning into insanity.

Director James Mangold breaks all the rules with an adventure that feels celebratory. From the moment we are pulled into this rich world, Mangold gives a fast-paced story that feels well-connected and characters that have a purpose. Although the movie constantly feels like a mouse and cat chase, Mangold creates clever action sequences that are fresh, which also honor what is remarkable and unique about the franchise. In particularly, there are some action scenes that are commendable and are knockouts. Another element that feels wondrous is the new score by John Williams. The score adds a dreamy tone that supports the connection between characters, the battle each character is dealing with, and the action.


Indiana Jones (Harrison Ford) in Lucasfilm’s IJ5. ©2022 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

Mangold also focuses on Indiana Jones struggles. Indy is much older now and he is dealing with lost relationships. Although the spotlight is mostly on the mysterious dial, Mangold doesn’t let those important plot points go to waste, He offers an outstanding conclusion to Indy’s feelings and desires. Towards the end of the final act, the film feels a bit wonky and the plot goes a bit off the rail, but still ends with a strong conclusion to Indy’s journey.

Harrison Ford without a doubt was born to play Indiana Jones. He is divine and is heroic as always. It’s hard to believe he is still playing Indiana Jones at the age of 80, and he rocks it. CGI is used for a younger Indy, but It’s nothing to be concerned about. The CGI makes Ford look the way he did when filming the first film (I know, it’s CGI, but it looks real and raw). Phoebe Waller-Bridge attempts to be at the level of Ford, but gets lost in transition. Her interpretation as Helena is tiresome and something seen before in the Indiana Jones universe. The film also includes some old faces that fans will be thrilled to see one last time.

Indy’s last adventure is worth watching because it honors the past, the present, and perhaps the future of the beloved franchise. From the moment the opening scene begins, a memorable world awaits you. The last goodbye to the iconic Indiana Jones feels like grief, but it’s certain to swipe you off your feet.

Indiana and the Dial of Destiny hits theaters June 30.

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