My Favorite Indiana Jones Franchise Movies: A Personal Journey

Growing up, I found myself watching various Indiana Jones movies multiple times, from Raiders of the Lost Ark to the more recent installments. My personal preference is a bit of a mix, and I’ll take you through my rewatch habits and favorite moments in the franchise.

Frequency of Rewatches

I think I've seen the first three Indiana Jones movies roughly equally—around a dozen times each. Loving classics, right? I'm actually overdue for a rewatch, especially of the second and third movies. As a colleague put it, there’s a reason to revisit each film: they’ve all left an impact on me, and I appreciate them all for different reasons. To further break it down:

The Indiana Jones Franchise: I’ve watched Raiders of the Lost Ark and The Last Crusade multiple times, but the fourth installment has only been revisited a few times. VHS Nostalgia: The first movie I saw was likely Raiders, as it was on VHS in my family. And while it may be common, it was my first exposure to the franchise. Favorite Movie? My personal favorite is The Last Crusade. Its charm, well-written screenplay, and the chemistry between Harrison Ford and Sean Connery make it a standout adventure. I often catch an episode whenever it's on TV, and I suspect its popularity stems from being the oldest and often the family favorite.

Personal Preferences

Raiders of the Lost Ark is widely considered the best installment in the franchise, and I can see why. It lays the groundwork for Indy's character and showcases his skills brilliantly. But personally, I find the third film, The Last Crusade, to be the most fun and engaging. Despite the often-maligned reputation of this movie, I've found it to be a thoroughly enjoyable adventure. The first watch was likely on VHS, but I've since watched it often and consider it a must for Indiana Jones fans.

The Highest Rated

Raiders of the Lost Ark is frequently cited as the highest-rated Indiana Jones movie. This film is beloved for its action, suspense, and iconic moments. However, it's a bit of a paradox for me since the fourth installment, The Last Crusade, often takes the top spot for fun and personal enjoyment. The reason? The final act of The Last Crusade is timeless—an incredible climax that turns Indy into a hero. I'm not rushing to rewatch any, though, as they each offer unique experiences and outcomes.

Conclusion: Rewatch Habits

So, which Indiana Jones franchise movie do I rewatch the most? It depends on the day. Raiders might get a higher score for overall quality, but The Last Crusade has a special place in my heart. Whichever way you lean, the Indiana Jones movies are a significant part of pop culture and have stood the test of time. Whether you're a casual fan or a die-hard enthusiast, there's always something to love in this classic adventure series.