‘When there was wonder in the world’: why Raiders of the Lost Ark is my feelgood movie
The latest in our series of writers paying tribute to their go-to comfort films celebrates Steven Spielberg’s escapist globe-trotting adventure The ancient Greek philosopher Lucretius writes in his epic poem On the Nature of Things : “It is comforting, when winds are whipping up the waters of the vast sea, to watch from land the severe trials of another person … it is comforting to see from what troubles you yourself are exempt.” This feeling of living dangerously by proxy is exactly why I find it so relaxing to watch Indiana Jones in 1981’s Raiders of the Lost Ark go through an endless stream of trials and tribulations: trekking through the hot, sticky jungle. Avoiding venomous spiders and snakes. Being betrayed by not one, but two of his colleagues. Jumping over bottomless chasms and outrunning giant boulders, only to be thwarted by his arch-rival and chased by a tribe of bow-and-arrow-toting Amazonians. And that’s just the first 15 minutes of the film. Continue reading...
In the world of cinema, there are films that transcend their time, capturing the imagination of audiences and leaving an indelible mark on popular culture. One such film is Steven Spielberg’s 1981 classic, Raiders of the Lost Ark, a globe-trotting adventure that offers a sense of wonder and escapism. For many, this movie serves as a comforting escape, a chance to live vicariously through the daring exploits of its protagonist, Indiana Jones.
The allure of Raiders of the Lost Ark lies in its ability to transport viewers to a world of danger and intrigue, allowing them to witness thrilling adventures without facing the actual perils. This concept is not new; it can be traced back to the ancient Greek philosopher Lucretius, who wrote in his epic poem On the Nature of Things: “It is comforting, when winds are whipping up the waters of the vast sea, to watch from land the severe trials of another person … it is comforting to see from what troubles you yourself are exempt.” This sentiment captures the essence of why Raiders of the Lost Ark has become a beloved comfort film for so many.
From the very beginning, Raiders of the Lost Ark throws its audience into a whirlwind of action. The film opens with Indiana Jones trekking through the hot, humid jungles of South America, searching for the Ark of the Covenant. The audience is immediately immersed in a world of danger, as Jones must navigate treacherous terrain, avoid venomous spiders and snakes, and confront betrayal from unexpected sources. The film masterfully combines suspense, adventure, and a sense of wonder, creating a narrative that is both thrilling and entertaining.
One of the key factors that contribute to the film’s enduring appeal is its protagonist, Indiana Jones. Played by Harrison Ford, Jones is a larger-than-life character who embodies the spirit of adventure and exploration. He is a man of few words, with a witty sense of humor and a knack for finding himself in the most perilous situations. Ford’s portrayal of Jones is both charismatic and relatable, making it easy for viewers to root for him as he faces one challenge after another.
The film’s pacing is another crucial element that makes it a timeless classic. Spielberg expertly balances action sequences with moments of tension and suspense, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. From the initial encounter with the deadly cobra to the final showdown in the temple, Raiders of the Lost Ark is filled with iconic scenes that have become synonymous with the adventure genre. The film’s ability to blend high-stakes action with a sense of wonder ensures that it remains engaging from start to finish.
In addition to its action-packed sequences, Raiders of the Lost Ark also boasts a rich narrative that explores themes of history, religion, and the quest for knowledge. The film’s exploration of the Ark of the Covenant serves as a metaphor for the dangers of obsession and the importance of balance. As Jones navigates the treacherous path to recover the Ark, he must confront his own fears and insecurities, ultimately emerging as a hero who values wisdom and courage over greed and ambition.
The film’s production design and special effects also play a significant role in creating its magical atmosphere. From the lush jungle settings to the intricate temple scenes, the visuals in Raiders of the Lost Ark are both breathtaking and immersive. The film’s iconic score, composed by John Williams, further enhances the sense of wonder and adventure, with its memorable themes becoming synonymous with the movie itself.
Raiders of the Lost Ark’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its ability to transport viewers to a world of wonder and excitement. By allowing audiences to live dangerously by proxy, the film offers a sense of comfort and relief from the challenges of everyday life. As Lucretius wrote, it is comforting to see from what troubles we ourselves are exempt. In the world of Raiders of the Lost Ark, viewers can escape to a place of adventure and intrigue, where they can witness the exploits of a hero who embodies the spirit of exploration and discovery.
In conclusion, Raiders of the Lost Ark is more than just a movie—it is a timeless tale of adventure and wonder that continues to captivate audiences across generations. Through its compelling narrative, iconic action sequences, and memorable characters, the film has become a beloved comfort film for many. As we revisit the world of Indiana Jones, we are reminded of the power of cinema to transport us to new realms and offer a sense of comfort in the face of adversity.
