Indiana Jones vs. The Nuclear Fridge. Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal skull (2008)

Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull is probably one of the most divisive entries in the Indiana Jones franchise, and after watching it, I can definitely understand why. There’s still plenty to like here. Harrison Ford slips back into the role of Indiana Jones like he never left, and seeing Indy back with his hat, whip, and classic attitude is genuinely fun. The action sequences can be entertaining, and the jungle chase has some great moments. But then there’s that fridge scene. Indy surviving a nuclear explosion by hiding inside a refrigerator is absolutely bonkers. Indiana Jones has always been willing to embrace the ridiculous, but this scene takes things to another level. It’s the kind of scene that makes you laugh more than cheer. The story also doesn't completely deliver on its mystery. The idea of the Crystal Skulls is interesting, but the payoff involving the cup of everlasting life doesn't live up to the promise. The supernatural mystery that made the earlier movies so memorable just isn't as satisfying here. I'll give the movie this, though: THE GIANT ANTS. Those things were absolutely gnarly. Watching them swarm over everything was creepy as hell and easily one of the most memorable sequences in the movie. The biggest problem is that Crystal Skull feels like it’s trying too hard to be an Indiana Jones movie while also taking Indy into a more obvious science-fiction direction. There are entertaining moments, but the magic of the original trilogy just isn't there. Harrison Ford is still great as Indy, and there are enough fun action sequences to keep this from being a complete disaster. But between the ridiculous fridge sequence, some questionable CGI, and a finale that doesn't quite stick the landing, this is definitely a weaker chapter.

Rating: 2.5/5