Indiana Jones - The Adventure Collection (Special Editions of Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark / Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom / Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade) Reviews

• The Bonus Material described. Not worth buying again, but still a very good set.

  
  By A42GFMF12V7XR on 2008-05-05
  I am giving this ***** because the DVD set itself is very good, it is loaded with bonus material. And it should be rated for what it is, ignoring any previous DVD releases.
  
  That said, I would not suggest spending more money to get this set. The bonus material could bore you. I prefer interviews & documentaries produced at the time the films were made. The labeling on the box is designed to deceive by stating "Includes All 3 Films, First Time Available - Special Editions". Like there was no special edition before.
  
  Oh, the slim cases are nice, but I like the original brown box more.
  
  I will group the "12 All-New, Must-See Special Features" (their wording, not mine)by catagory.
  
  1) New Introductions to the films by Steven Speilberg & George Lucas.
  
  STORYBOARDS, unless something differs greatly from the film, I have trouble sitting through these:
  2) Snakes Alive! The Well Of Souls. - From Lost Ark
  3) Hold On To Your Hat! The Coal Mine Chase. - From Temple of Doom.
  4) The Birth Of the Action Hero! The Last Crusade Opening Scene.
  
  MEMORIES, modern interviews with those who worked on the films back then. These are always a little jaded for me.
  5) The Indy Trilogy, A Crystal Clear Appreciation. - The cast & crew of the new movie talk about how well they like the original three.
  6) Indy's Women Reminisce. - a reunion of Indy's main women.
  7) Indy's Friends & Enemies. - Steve, George, & the writers discuss character creation, including a look at the new movie.
  8) Creepy Crawlies. - Steve George & Frank Marshall remenisce about snakes, bugs & rats.
  
  BEHIND THE SCENES, new documentaries about the making of the originals:
  9) The Mystery Of The Melting Face. - a re-creation of the original special effect in "Ark".
  10) Discover Adventure On Location with Indy. - A slightly misleading title as this is also a modern day travel around the world, showing where the films were originally shot.
  11) Photo Galleries from each film.
  
  And then there is:
  12) LEGO Indiana Jones.- promotional demo games.
  
  Again, this makes a very good DVD release, but nothing worth replacing your older set for. I prefer the original box set extras, especially the bonus 4th disc some stores sold that contained an original 1980's documentary about the films!
  
  

• For Diehard Fans Only

  
  By A21B2TJBWCSK1R on 2008-05-11
  Being a big fan of the Indiana Jones films I find myself conflicted about this new box set. While it's no surprise that the studio decided to re-release the films to coincide with the release of the new Indy film, they have royally screwed over fans by including a new collection of extras thereby forcing them to buy the films over again if they want them. So, is it worth it? Short answer: no. Nothing is going to beat The Adventures of Indiana Jones (Raiders of the Lost Ark/ Temple of Doom/ Last Crusade) - Widescreen Edition's two-hour making of documentary and many of these new extras are nothing more than left over bits from it.
  
  On the Raiders of the Lost Ark disc there is an "Introduction" that features Lucas and Spielberg talking about the genesis of the film. Spielberg wanted to do a globe-trotting James Bond-type story and Lucas introduced the idea of an archaeologist. They both agreed that they wanted to pay homage to the old 1930s cliffhanger sequels.
  
  "Indiana Jones: An Appreciation" was done on the set of the new Indy film as Lucas, Spielberg, Harrison Ford, and Karen Allen reflect on the character and the trilogy - its impact on them and popular culture. Cast and crew from the new film also give their impressions and everyone recounts their favourite scene from the trilogy.
  
  "The Melting Face" takes a look at how they pulled off the climactic scene when the Ark is opened and Toht's face melts. The effects artists who did it take us through the process and there is vintage footage of it being done.
  
  "Storyboard: The Well of the Souls" shows illustrations from this sequence with footage from the film to show how close the two match.
  
  There are "Galleries" that feature character sketches, props, behind-the-scenes photographs taken on the set, effects shots, like Matte paintings, and models used, various designs for the film's logo, and finally, posters from all over the world.
  
  The Temple of Doom disc features an "Introduction" by Lucas and Spielberg. The director says that he had always wanted to make a trilogy of films and Lucas wanted this one to be darker and edgier, like The Empire Strikes Back (1980). They admit that Temple of Doom got terrible reviews but at least Spielberg met his wife on that one - Kate Capshaw.
  
  "The Creepy Crawlies" examines how each film has some creepy element to it: Raiders with snakes, Temple of Doom with bugs, and the Last Crusade with rats. There are segments from each film are shown with a trivia track option.
  
  "Travel with Indy: Locations" examines the various exotic locales seen throughout the films. We see how Hawaii doubled for South America and so on. This featurette can also be viewed with an optional trivia track. Associate producer Robert Watts takes us through key locations while dishing production anecdotes.
  
  "Storyboards: The Mine Car Chase" allows you to view the illustrations for this sequence along with the actual scene from the film.
  
  The "Galleries" section is identical to the one on the Raiders disc only pertaining to Temple of Doom.
  
  The Last Crusade disc starts off with yet another "Introduction" where Spielberg admits that he wasn't crazy about the idea of the Holy Grail and suggested using it as a metaphor for the father-son relationship between Indy and his father. Lucas and Spielberg talk about the casting of Sean Connery and what he brought to the role.
  
  Easily the most entertaining and engaging extra of the entire set is "Indy's Women: The American Film Institute Tribute" reunites the leading ladies from each film: Karen Allen, Kate Capshaw and Alison Doody. They talk about their characters and working with Spielberg. They all look great and speak candidly about their experiences. In particular, Capshaw and Doody talk about the reaction to their characters.
  
  "Indy's Friends and Enemies" takes a look at the sidekicks, love interests, and villains in the trilogy. Spielberg speaks admiringly of the leading ladies and the strengths of each character. This featurette also explores the role sidekicks and villains play in the film with plenty of clips.
  
  "Storyboards: The Opening Sequence" shows the sketches for the film's exciting opening action sequence with a young Indy (Phoenix) alongside the actual scene in the film.
  
  Finally, the "Galleries" features a nice collection of snapshots from various aspects of the film like the galleries on the other discs.
  
  The extras on these discs are well done and interesting to watch but do not warrant you double-dipping unless you are a hardcore fan that MUST have everything. If this is the first time buying the Indy films and you don't know which set to get, purchase the first one because each film does not share disc space with extras and for the two-hour making of documentary which is superior to all of the extras on this new set combined.
  
  

• In Defence Of George Lucas

  
  By A2HJZ2KN9YA9L2 on 2008-04-01
  A lot of people are complaining about the new editions of these Indiana Jones dvds simply because they have been released before. They are acting as though George Lucas is the only man guilty of double dipping. But I turn around and there is the 9th edition of Independence Day, the 5th edition of the Rambo movies (Soon to be 6th) The many times Terminator 2 has been re-issued on DVD, and don't get me started on the Evil Dead movies. The Star Wars movies are distributed on DVD by 20th Century Fox, the same studio which, less than a year after the initial release, cranked out a special edition of The Day After Tomorrow, and which annually re-issues not just Day After Tomorrow and Independence dDay, but Speed, the Die Hard movies, the Abyss, The Sound of Music, and the Alien movies on an annual basis, every year with new cover art, and sometimes with bonus features, sometimes without. The Indiana Jones movies are distributed by Paramount, which has released at least 2 editions of each of the Star Trek movies, and I am certain that when the new Star Trek movie gets released, we can anticipate a 3rd release of those features, either when Star Trek XI is released theatrically or on DVD. This summer there is going to be a new 2 disk edition of Batman Begins getting released (I wonder if it will be the same as the old 2 disk edition of Batman Begins) in order to capitalize on the release of The Dark Knight. This isn't really a marketing ploy by Lucas so much as standard marketing procedure on the part of the studios. So, everyone who gave this a 1 star for being a re-release, quick, get to the new edition of Batman Begins and give that a 1 star review as well.
  
  

• Shame on you George...

  
  By AIXZ614CM09RH on 2008-03-06
  I agree 100% with Taylor X. The new bonus features seem more like featurettes than actual documentaries. I'll pass thanks. Hands up- who thinks there will be yet another box set with all 4 Indy movies by Christmas?
  
  

• Thanks George, but I'll wait.

  
  By A2COCRWXXUQI8G on 2008-03-20
  These newest DVD editions sound great and they've got some great features on 'em. I have the box set that came out five years ago, (Wow! Has it been that long?)so I guess these new ones are just in time for moratorium (and to promote the new movie). Got to admit, if ya' don't have the first box set, these would be a great set to get AND you've got the option this time of getting just the ones you want (so if you ONLY like "Raiders" - there you are). Me, I'll wait for Blu-Ray. They'll probably put EVERYTHING on those - at least I hope so. If they don't, and I want to be a completist, I'll just wait 'til these are in the bargain bin somewhere and get 'em for cheap. This is just the cycle of DVD releases, ya' just gotta' make choices as a DVD consumer and movie FAN.
  
  
• Lucas Future DVD release Schedule for the Next 5 Years!
  By A2KWG1J285Z4QA on 2008-04-08
  This isn't really a review on the new Indiana Jones Adventure DVD set that is due in May which is only coming out because of the new film. In fact, I'm really looking forward to the new film. I just wanted to vent out some frustrations with the rest of the other Lucas fans. I totally agree with the majority of you who are frustrated by the constant re-issue of George Lucas films on DVD. The Star Wars & Indiana Jones films are my most, favorite films of all time, but getting them on DVD has been an adventure in itself. Therefore, I want to show the future DVD release schedule of what I REALLY THINK is coming out on DVD for the George Lucas films in the next five years.
  
  December, 2008.
  Indiana Jones DVD set with all four movies. "Kingdom of the Crystal Skull" will be a two-disc set and the second disc will be one of those stupid, bonus digital copies. The ONLY way you can get the "Kingdom of the Crystal Skull" DVD is if you buy the whole Indiana Jones four-movie set. Arrrgh!
  
  December, 2009
  A complete Star Wars 25 DVD set with the complete prequels & original trilogy, the animated Clone Wars, Blue Harvest Family Guy, Ewok Adventures, Robot Chicken Wars, Bart Wars (from the Simpsons), Hardware Wars, Thumb Wars, the upcoming "Fanboys", Star Wars Lego X-Box demos and more new documentaries/featurettes that were NOT available before. The set will also contain a limited edition Darth Vader Head with breathing noises and a cash register "kacheeeng" noise every time you touch it. There will also be a hidden Easter egg on one of the DVD's when you enter "1138" which causes the "Star Wars Holiday Special" to play. Arrrrgh!
  
  December, 2010
  A complete Indiana Jones 25 DVD set with all four films, the whole Young Indiana Jones series, Indiana Jones Lego X-Box demos and more new documentaries/featurettes that were NOT available before. The set will also contain a limited edition Idol Head from "Raiders of the Lost Ark" that makes a "kacheeeeng" noise every time you touch it and gives you a really bad headache like your head just got hit by a giant boulder. Arrrgh!
  
  December, 2011
  The George Lucas Definitive DVD collection. A 100 DVD set of Star Wars, Indiana Jones, THX1138, American Graffiti, Blue Harvest Family Guy Lego X-Box demo and MORE documentaries/featurettes with all NEW special features that were NEVER available on any DVD created on Earth. The set will also contain a limited edition George Lucas statue that makes a "kacheeeeng" noise every time you touch it. The DVD set will also contain a bonus DVD of "Howard the Duck". Arrrrgh!
  
  December, 2012
  The George Lucas Definitive DVD collection in 3-D. Same exact DVD set as above but with 3D glasses. The set will also contain the bonus DVD "George Lucas in Love" and a limited edition George Lucas flannel shirt. Arrrrgh!
  
  Products related to this mess; Howard the Duck;George Lucas in Love;Hardware Wars - The Original Edition;Thumb Wars - The Phantom Cuticle;The Star Wars Holiday Special : As Broadcast 11-17-78
  
  
• About the movies and the new set (and why the low ratings for it are very misleading)
  By A1K94LXX833JTT on 2008-03-08
  This isn't all I'd like in a special edition, but I think most people will be very happy with it. It will include all new special features, and none of the special features from the old set.
  
  The Indiana Jones movies are George Lucas's recreation/update of the serialized adventures of the 1930s and '40s. Made in the '80s and set in the '30s, they feature Harrison Ford as a mild-mannered archeology professor who moonlights as an adventurous seeker of priceless antiquities. This takes him to exotic locations across the world, and gets him in some very tight spots of the kind that only a movie hero could get into, or out of. He invariably finds himself opposed by dangerous men with evil plans for the powerful objects only he has the skills to recover. There are elaborate set pieces with creepy critters, ancient traps, fights with weapons from bare hands to airplanes and tanks, and sometimes supernatural forces. Along the way Jones manages to have some romance too. Humor is a big part of the fun.
  
  On May 13th, 2008, new DVD editions of the three original Indiana Jones movies will be released as a set and individually (the first time they'll be available separately on DVD). The set will be out in time for the new Indy movie, Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull, which opens on May 22nd.
  
  Here's a list of the DVD features, based on the studio press release, with a bit about each movie. The links are to the separate Amazon pages for each DVD. The DVDs will be exactly the same whether you buy the discs as a set or separately.
  
  -- Each movie will be in anamorphic widescreen, enhanced for widescreen TVs, English 5.1 surround sound, with optional Spanish or French 2.0 surround sound, and optional subtitles for all three languages. This isn't any different from the old DVDs, as far as I can tell. The other features listed here are all new.
  
  -- Each movie will have its own individual introduction by director Steven Spielberg and creator/producer George Lucas.
  
  -- Each movie will come with DVD galleries of illustrations, props, production stills and portraits, FX/Industrial Light and Magic stuff, and promotion/marketing materials. It's not clear if these will be different for each movie.
  
  -- Each will include "Lego Indiana Jones," a demo and trailer for a game based on the trilogy.
  
  I'll list the other features separately for each DVD.
  
  Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark (Special Collector's Edition)
  
  In 1936, having barely survived an unsuccessful attempt to find (OK) and bring home (whoops!) an ancient idol from Peru, Indiana Jones is recruited in a race against the Nazis to recover the Ark of the Covenant (yes, the one mentioned in the Bible, but with lots of added mythology), which is reputed to have the power to make an army invincible. The ark is located in the Well of Souls somewhere in Egypt; the key to the exact location is a medallion located, naturally, in a seedy lodge/bar in Nepal, in the possession of Indy's ex-lover. All kinds of sparks fly, literal and metaphorical, as the pair, joined by another confederate in Egypt, use their knowledge of ancient myth and sheer bravado to work right under the noses of the Nazis to find the ark and remove it to safety. Almost. There are several reversals along the way, close escapes, a huge near-finale, and icky stuff--spiders and, especially, snakes, thousands of them, of which Indy unfortunately has a bit of a phobia.
  
  Some of the more memorable moments are tinged with humor, if not outright hilarity. Indy's reactions make the snakes as amusing as they are scary. We see how to fight an expert swordsman, if you're in a hurry. The way the Nazis got a copy of (half) the medallion is painfully funny. The fate of the ark is a wry comment on Washington bureaucracy.
  
  Raiders was an instant classic. I'm sure there are people who don't like it, but I've never met any. It's fine for most kids (PG violence and mild sexuality), and it's plenty smart enough for all but the most snooty adults.
  
  The original title is just Raiders of the Lost Ark, which is preserved in the movie itself. The longer title makes it easier to market as part of the franchise.
  
  Here are the other special features, in addition to the introduction, galleries and game demo listed above:
  
  -- "Indiana Jones: An Appreciation," in which the cast and crew of the new Indiana Jones movie pay tribute to the original trilogy
  
  -- "The Melting Face," a recreation of the famous effect from the climactic scene in Raiders that certainly left an impression on me (was new then), with Spielberg and Lucas on the evolution of visual effects and CGI
  
  -- storyboards for "The Well of Souls" sequence
  
  Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom (Special Collector's Edition)
  
  This first sequel is actually a prequel, set one year earlier than Raiders, in 1935. After barely surviving an attempt to acquire an antiquity in China, Indy finds himself in India with a woman friend and male sidekick (a trio as in all three films). They're enlisted to recover a village's sacred Sankara stone and kidnapped children, both held by an evil man with designs to find and unite all five Sankara stones to rule the world. This project involves ritual human sacrifice and an underground mine, each of which provide close calls for the heroes.
  
  This film, while incorporating light humor as before, is somewhat darker in overall tone than Raiders (reportedly by design, as Lucas and Speilberg were each in a dark mood after romance/marriage failures). Not especially violent by current standards (PG, though it played a part in leading to the creation of the PG-13 rating), I think most kids and parents will be fine with it. It's still all for fun.
  
  The creepy crawlies featured in this installment are lots and lots of exotic insects.
  
  This DVD's other special features, in addition to the introduction, galleries and game demo listed above:
  
  -- "Creepy Crawlies," in which Spielberg, Lucas and co-producer Frank Marshall reminisce about snakes, bugs and rats
  
  -- "Locations," on where the films were set and where they were actually shot
  
  -- storyboard sequence: "The Mine Cart Chase"
  
  Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (Special Collector's Edition)
  
  Indy as a teenager tries unsuccessfully to save an artifact from thieves, during which we get background on his signature fedora, bull whip, fear of snakes and his father. Then we jump to 1938, when Indy learns his father, played by Sean Connery, has gone missing while searching for the Holy Grail, which the Nazis have designs on for world domination. Joining with a somewhat dim museum owner and the beautiful woman Indy's father had been working with, Indy has close calls in Venice, Austria, and Turkey as he closes in on the Grail and, in the end, bonds with dad.
  
  This one returns to the lighter tone of the original, and perhaps exceeds it in its emphasis on humor (though I still find Raiders funnier). It's fun to see Ford and Connery working together. As always there are very involved set pieces, including a tank battle, an intricate plot full of mystery and action, and some magic. And critters: this time thousands of rats.
  
  The special features, in addition to the introduction, galleries and game demo listed above:
  
  -- "The Women: The American Film Institute Tribute," featuring a discussion with the three Indiana Jones women, Karen Allen, Kate Capshaw and Alison Doody
  
  -- "Friends and Enemies," in which Spielberg, Lucas and Indiana Jones writers discuss how they created the original characters, with a look at new faces in the new movie
  
  -- storyboards: the opening sequence
  
  There are no audio commentaries, for which I subtract one star for a special edition, since they're easy to produce and tend to bring out points not covered in other features. If you don't care about commentaries, this may be a five-star set for you.
  
  There have been rumors of deleted scenes, but none are in the new set.
  
  Many speculate that a Blu-ray release will come out for Christmas, but that's guesswork. You can sign up here to be notified by Amazon when a Blu-ray edition of the set is available for pre-order.
  
  I was in college when Raiders came out. There was great anticipation because of the people associated with it, especially after the great success of Star Wars. A bunch of us went to the old full-size theater downtown for the premiere, where we waited outside for hours. We weren't disappointed. It was a wild, gripping ride from beginning to end, with high adventure in legendary settings, good characters, clever moments for comic relief, and romance. More memorable than some entire semesters! The next two films didn't have quite the same impact, being less of a new thing, but they're lots of fun too, worth repeated viewings.
  
  If you want to know why I think the low ratings are off the mark, I'll put that in the comments (comment number 3). No more room here!
  
  
• Wait for the Blu-Ray version...
  By A1CLOVHVGOBUQ2 on 2008-03-31
  I wouldn't bother with this set... You know a Blu-Ray version will be coming out around Christmas... and it will probably include the 4th film.
  I agree with the other reviewers... don't waste your money... the best is yet to come!
  
  
• Wait for it.......
  By A2VWOWRCOI0WMC on 2008-04-07
  If you want the Indiana Jones Trilogy, buy this or the already available box set. If you want to get the complete four films just wait, a four disk box set will probably be set for a Christmas release. No complaints here...just head shaking!
  
  
• Why buy this??
  By on 2008-05-07
  The other Indiana Jones set ( The Adventures of Indiana Jones (Raiders of the Lost Ark/ Temple of Doom/ Last Crusade) - Widescreen Edition) was way better then this! I read the bonus content for this collection and it sucked!! These movies were actualy already released in the U.K (i don't live there, I've just been there) and I watched this collection and the quality is cruddy! Never buy this in stead of the other set!!
  
  
  
• Great Movies Great Set
  By A3HDLJRI0QVXQ8 on 2008-03-13
  The movies are great. If you already own the set and don't wanna upgrade, then don't. If you don't own the old set, you need this one. It's plain and simple, so all the crybabies need to stop complaining. Grow up.
  
  
• This is really annoying!
  By AJHWUHJN5ET30 on 2008-03-20
  I just bought the Indiana Jones DVD Movie Collection, and I now learn there is a new, better version of the collection coming out in May. DOES IT EVER END? Why must these movie companies continually take a dump on their consumers by releasing new, better DVDs that should have been available before?
  
  If you already own the collection (like me), don't bother to buy this. You will only be contributing to a shameful practice that needs to be stopped. Shame on you, Paramount!
  
  
• These Movies are Great
  By A39JL14G1JXZZ4 on 2008-03-27
  This is the Worst double dipping ever. worse then the Star Wars. at least he changed things with the feature. digital remastered. Here all that was done is change the Box Set. from The Adventures of Indiana to the Indiana-THe Adventure Collection, and added one or two never before seen bonus material. First of all? Is there a Mystery collection? horror Collection? of course its called the THE ADVENTURE COLLECTION. its Indiana friggin Jones.
  
  seriously, if you want the first three get the other set its cheaper. or wait till christmas, when ALL 4 will be in a Box-SET.
  TRIPLE DIP!
  
  
• Give me a Blu-ray set NOT more of the same
  By A1VVRE6L15FAKL on 2008-05-07
  To preface this poor review, Indiana Jones is by far one of my favorite movie series. I am an Indiana Jones fan! I understand that they wanted to add something "extra" in conjunction with the new movie coming out in May. HOWEVER, if they are going to do that, why not just use this opportunity to create the best possible translation of the movies in a BLU-RAY disc set and not give us a regurgetated DVD set with a few extra nibbles? I'm hopeful that this Blu-ray set will come in the fall (November) when Indy IV is released. It just seems like they are "double dipping" to milk the franchise while the movie is out in theaters. They are doing the exact same thing with the soundtracks by rereleasing, the best of compilation when Extended versions of the out of print originals are supposed to be released later this year. "Capitalism Baby, Yah!." There are going to be quite a few people that will wish they had waited...
  
  
• Shame on George
  By A39R77NLB006R6 on 2008-05-12
  C'mon George! Not another re-packaging of the same ol' stuff!
  
  If the real draw to this "new" box set are teaser featurettes for the latest Indiana Jones film, why not just wait for the "Kingdom of the Crystal Skull" 2-disc set to be released this fall?
  
  Stick with your Indiana Jones DVD Box Set from 2003 and ignore the latest in a disturbingly long line of re-packaging ploys from Lucasfilm and FOX.
  
  Tsk. Tsk.
  
  
• 5-Star Alternative
  By A3KKM0T1KY42HA on 2008-03-24
  If you're looking for a set of the first three Indiana Jones movies available NOW in anticipation of the release of Crystal Skull in May of 2008...go to this link The Adventures of Indiana Jones (Raiders of the Lost Ark/ Temple of Doom/ Last Crusade) - Widescreen Edition.
  
  And don't forget to check out my full review there! http://www.amazon.com/review/R1Q9LHUFE70US8/ref=cm_cr_rdp_perm
  
  
• Finally in real Widescreen
  By A1TU8F25KO6FHP on 2008-05-17
  When I originally bought this set, it was transfered in an aspect ratio that is now out of date. And now all three films have come out in the true widescreen format that have brought these three great movies into the 21st television century. It is worth the upgrade.
  
  
• The Indy Boxset
  By A2PHI2D3NFZ0ET on 2008-03-20
  I agree with Taylor X as well and like him I also want to make it clear that the 1-star rating is, in no way an indication of my feelings about the actual movie.
  
  This new set as reviewed earlier just incorporates new "Featurettes" and not full blown documentaries. What I wanted to add was that I was most disappointed with Lucasfilm not including: Great Movie Stunts and the Making of "Raiders of the Lost Ark"and Great Adventurers and their Quests The Making of the Last Crusade documentaries. I have had these two on VHS forever which I quickly dubbed to DVD because they were not included in the original Trilogy release. I was really hoping this new release would have included these documentaries. At this point I would say this new release is only applicable to those who do not have the original release or feel compelled to gain the new material.
  
  
• Keeping up with the Jones'.....
  By A1K7DJIIH5FLRL on 2008-04-08
  Everyone is complaining about the new discs that are coming out in May. I agree that multiple release are a pain in the [...].
  
  Has anyone thought they will release a new version at Christmas time? Yes folks, the movie comes out in May but the DVD will come out in November and guess what, it will probably come out in a four movie set and also come out in Blu-Ray. So that is three releases. May, regular DVD in November and Blu-Ray in November. On the bright side, once they come out in BD, it will be over....or will it???
  
  
• Why buy now?
  By A36HYA7K1Q4AH4 on 2008-05-08
  I'll start this review out by stating that these are some of the best action movies ever made. That's why it received the 4 star vote from me. It didn't get the 5 star vote because I really don't like the re-releases. But the real meat of my review has to do with a question on my part. The question being...why buy these movies again now, when you know that once the 4th movie goes to DVD there will be some massive 4 disc (or 8 disc if each were to get double-disc sets) on either DVD or Blu-ray Disc that will likely be the "definitive" set (if there really is a definitive set for DVDs anymore)? Just thought I'd put my 2 cents in there and say...save your 3999 cents. Thanks.
  
  
• Great films subpar DVD set
  By A2INL3AYAT6325 on 2008-05-14
  I was first in the door opening day in my home town for all 3 of these films.
  
  If you are a fan the original 2003 DVD package set with the 3 films was MUCH better.
  
  That had additional discs with the extras. This set only has the 3 disc for extra film with some extras on each.
  
  NO chapter search list for any film.
  
  THEN, an unnecessary paper that comes off & you have to put some place because it does NOT attach to the box.
  
  This set was put out in time for the release of the 4th film 5-22-08. POOR set to get interest for the new films.
  
  The new extras are good BUT NEEDS THEIR OWN DISC LIKE THE 2003 DVD PACKAGE.
  Above rating for the films NOT the DVD package
  
  
• Pure Thrill Rides!
  By A3V5DUZ5KXPGQA on 2008-05-20
  Before I begin, let me note there are THREE different Indiana Jones' sets. Two of them came out in 2003 (one was full-screen, the other widescreen). The one discussed in my review will be the newest one.
  
  All the films are in widescreen format and each come with a behind the scenes look at each film along with other extras too numerous to mention here.
  
  Now, for my opinions of each:
  
  RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK - Indiana Jones races to get the legendary Ark Of The Covenant from the hands of the Nazis. Along the way, he encounters an old flame from the past which is revisited in the fourth film "Kingdom Of The Krystal Skull."
  
  TEMPLE OF DOOM - After nearly escaping death from a chinese gang, Indiana Jones crash lands in India with singer Willie Scott and a little chinese kid named Short Round. Seeing the plight of these people, he agrees to help them save their children from slavery and recover their Shakara stone from an occult group.
  
  It should be fair to note that this film, while fun, is the darkest of the three that are out so far and some parts may not be suitable for kids.
  
  THE LAST CRUSADE - While trying to find his missing father (played by Sean Connery), Indiana Jones becomes involved in a chase for the cup of Christ. The very cup that Jesus drank from at the last supper before his crucifixion. Again, he goes against the Nazis in this two mission race.
  
  All three films are great thrill rides in my view! I am personally biased towards Temple Of Doom but all of them are great. I also think these film put Harrison Ford's name on the map, moreso than Star Wars did (only my opinion).
  
  Anyway, if you haven't bought the original box sets, then pick up the new one! Worth the buy!
  
  
• Think twice if you want to buy this one.
  By A3OSP5TQO5S339 on 2008-04-29
  Well, if you think this is the ultimate release of the classic movies, think again.
  This edition doesn't include the fourth disc with the brillant documentary from the first set with is pretty bad. If you got the chance to buy the latest editions of this movies, please do it.
  The Indiana Jones movies are classic and they deserve a better treatment than this.
  Shame on you Mr. Lucas !!! You should take a look on what Peter Jackson and Ridley Scott have done with the DVD's releases of their movies. It seems we've to wait until their release in Blu-Ray to get something really valuable.
  
  And by the way, the artwork is awful.
  
  
• Lucas has destroyed his legacy
  By A1E110L9ZKX6FD on 2008-05-13
  I grew up with Star Wars and Indy. Both beloved series held dear to my heart. I grew up and George Lucas became a very rich man because of kids like me who spent their allowance on star wars toys and at the movie theater to watch Indiana Jones. But as Lucas got more money Lucas became more greedy and the wonderful magic that he penned turned into garbage.
  
  Lets just call it for what it is folks. The Star Wars prequels and the add ons to the original series are garbage. Nothing more than a money grab just like this new box set that Lucas has churned out.
  
  I am no longer a fan of Lucas. I have no faith what so ever in anything with his name attached to it. All I can think about when I hear his name is money.
  
  Great legacy Lucas.
  
  
• AN EPIC "ADVENTURE" SET!
  By A3VQSFORKH8B7O on 2008-05-16
  One of the greatest action/adventure franchises of all time, the original "Indiana Jones" trilogy returns to DVD in an excellent three-disc collector's set! Chances are, if you own the original four-disc set, you won't be purchasing this collection. But if this is your first time buying it, then the wait is definitely worth it! All three films come together with terrific picture and sound, and come with great extras that are sure to entertain!
  
  RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK (1981)
  The film that started it all, "Raiders" is a fantastic adventure film that brings back the excitement of the 1930's movie serials! Featuring terrific acting from Harrison Ford and a stellar ensemble cast, thrilling action sequences and visual effects, and another memorable score by John Williams, George Lucas and Steven Spielberg crafted a fantastic film full of awe, wonder and excitement, cementing Indiana Jones as one of the greatest adventure heroes of all time!
  Movie Grade: A
  
  INDIANA JONES AND THE TEMPLE OF DOOM (1984)
  As he had done with the second installment of the "Star Wars" trilogy, Lucas wanted to create a darker, edgier film for the second installment of the "Indiana Jones" trilogy. But what worked for "Star Wars" does not work for Indy and the gang. While the film features some terrific action sequences, a great friendship story between Indy and his sidekick, Short Round, and another fantastic score from John Williams, the film goes to far into the macabre, featuring gruesome images (a man with his heart ripped out, then bursting into flames; men getting ripped apart by crocodiles) and humor (A gross dinner scene) that was unnecessary for an "Indy" film, and gave birth to the PG-13 rating. Still, the film features some good moments, making it a worthwhile film, though it is still the weakest of the first three films.
  Movie Grade: B
  
  INDIANA JONES AND THE LAST CRUSADE (1989)
  The best of the sequels to "Raiders" (And my personal favorite of the "Indy" adventures), "The Last Crusade" is a fantastic film that returns Indy to fighting Nazis in search of religious icons. What makes this film great are the terrific action sequences, some great spiritual references, and fantastic chemistry between Harrison Ford and Sir Sean Connery. These elements come together to create a fantastic adventure epic that redeems the franchise, and is both exciting and moving at the same time. Terrific entertainment!
  Movie Grade: A+
  
  CONCLUSION
  "Indiana Jones: The Adventure Collection" is a terrific set for those who don't own the films already, and helps to get us all ready when "Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull" comes out on May 22. This set is highly recommended!
  DVD Grade: A+
  
  
• Excellent Transfers for a Classic Trilogy
  By A2S1TF4OD00K53 on 2008-06-02
  I just finished watching this set and I can honestly say that I was blown away by the picture quality for all 3 films.
  
  There's not much you can say about these movies that hasn't been said before. They're beloved and classic adventure films that many other movies (Mummy,Tomb Raider,etc.) have tried to copy but never could. In all honesty though, I must say that I really only prefer Raiders and Temple of Doom. Last Crusade comes off as goofy and lightweight compared to it's predecessors. But even Crusade looks a little better now compared to the new and atrocious Crystal Skull, or Numb Skull as I like to call it. But I won't get started on how laughably bad that one is as I won't be able to stop. I'll save that for it's own dvd review. Raiders is still the best though and provides all the classic moments, characters, and action that make Indiana Jones so great.
  
  I used to watch these movies alot on vhs when I was younger but I never got the last set on dvd. I also hadn't seen them, except on t.v., for quite a while. I took advantage of a sale for this newly released box set and I just can't get over how good they look. I watched them using an upconverting dvd player via HDMI to my HDTV and they almost look like they could be HD DVD's or Blu Ray's. They colors are robust, the edges are sharp, details pop, and the transfers are very clean. I usually inspect movies from a tech point of view as I'm kind of a audio and videophile and none of the transfers ever came across as dirty or grainy. There are maybe few instances when you may see a spec or spot but you have to look for them. I wish all remasters got this kind of treatment.
  
  I listened to them on my home theater and each movie sounded better than the last. Given the fact that they were originally mono 2.0 tracks, I think they did a very good job converting them to 5.1. Raiders came across the weakest of the bunch as Temple and Crusade feature much fuller, bass filled tracks. But considering it's age, it was still pretty good.
  
  I've read that the DD 5.1 tacks are the same from the last box set but that the video is superior here. Some of the extras are different from the sets too. They've added a couple of new ones here but removed alot of the documentary style ones from the last set as it had a separate disc to contain them. They didn't have the room to include them here but I'm wondering why they didn't just add the extras disc from the last set to complete it.
  
  Overall, this is simply a no-brainer must have for any fan of the series. If you already have the last set, you may just be happy to keep it, especially if you like extras. If you don't have either set, you'll select one based on where your priorities are. Either video quality or extras seem to be the only differences. Personally, I'd rather have better audio and video, but that's just me. I don't think you can go wrong no matter which you choose and you'll be happy either way. Recommended.
  
  
• It about marketing and a new generation of Indiana Fans
  By A3G164USVW960 on 2008-05-03
  Ofcourse they are going to re-release the Indiana Jones Box Set right before the new movie is released. It only makes sense, when the original trilogy was released on dvd only the tru fans of the series went out and bought them. There is still a large number of a younger generation that do not know hwo Indiana Jones is. With the new movie getting ready to be released they have to give the younger audience a chance to catch up on the whole series by re-releasing the box set. It allows for a larger target audience and soon to be a larger fan base of Indiana fans! Sure I went out and bought the box set 5 years ago when it was released because I am a huge fan. To anyone who see the new previews of the new movie and has never heard of or seen an Indiana Jones movie because they were before their time, then this new re-release is for them! STop giving it one star reviews and think a little into it before being quick to judge!
  
  
• For the first time on DVD...NOT!
  By A5920D8L68FM8 on 2008-05-18
  Despite what the advertisements say, this is not the first time these movies are on DVD. It's a shameless double dip only being released to cash in on the new Indy movie. It's insulting that the studios think we're stupid enough to fall for it, although many people are apparently being suckered into buying it.
  
  
• Da-de-de-dahh, der-de-der...
  By A1V3TRGWOMA8LC on 2008-05-20
  I've not seen these movies in years but decided to subject my wife to a 7 hour Jones marathon over the weekend. Now I can't get that damned John Williams music out of my head.
  
  It's amazing how the plots don't make any sense whatsoever. I totally missed that as a child, which probably explains why the Harvard scholarship eluded me. Actually, not only are they completely nonsensical, but actually the plot jumps wouldn't be tolerated in a movie today. Cases in point:
  
  1. How in the hell did a former girlfriend have the bronze amulet that gains access to the Ark? (And she was wearing that around her neck.)
  2. How did the Nazis follow Jones or find her 5 minutes after he arrived?
  3. Indy only helps the Nazis to find the Ark more quickly, and then the Ark kills them all anyway (this problem was repeated in the first Tomb Raider, weirdly enough).
  
  ... and it goes on and on. You could write hundreds of these.
  
  The screenwriting process here is like two caffeine-fueled comic book fans in competition to produce the most outrageous 'and-then' moment:
  
  #1: "Now he gets shot in the arm by a Nazi!"
  #2: "Yeah but now he gets punched out of the windshield of the car!"
  #1: "BUT he crawls under the moving car and climbs up the other side!"
  #2: "And then THE NAZI gets thrown out of the windshield!"
  #1: "BUT only out of the side that's not already broken!"
  #2: "Yeah but HE gets run over the truck he was driving!"
  #1: "GREAT! More double-whip no-chai extra-shot latte?"
  #2: "Sure. Have we mentioned any aliens yet?"
  
  But who cares because they're fun movies and Jones is such a good screen character that it's a joy to watch all the BS. I mean, compare these to The Mummy movies, and it's obvious which series people will watch in 10, 20, 30 years time.
  
  Doom is the weakest of the three - uncharacteristically dark and sadistic - with the story only kicking off after the midpoint of the film. The sidekick and romantic interests are annoying, and they don't have the 'Champagne bad guy', so the main villain seems very flat. The Last Crusade is clearly when everyone got comfortable with the formula, and is the most expertly made in terms of balance of action scenes, humor and mild drama.
  
  Anyway, I was pleasantly surprised by how much sheer fun I had rewatching the set after 15 years - I'm looking forward to #4. It's actually great to see films without CGI in every damned scene... it reminds me of why hanging off a bridge seems like a dangerous idea.
  
  PS - The extras are so-so. Don't buy this set if you've already got the films since the 10-15 mins of extras on each disc are disappointing.
  
  
  
• Perfect Intro for the New Indy
  By A24BEMERMTXJRY on 2008-05-23
  This may not be the perfect choice for Indiana Jones afficionados but there is quite a few billion people around who never had the chance to see the movies before. These three film rank among the best adventure movies of the last half century (OK - they ARE the best ;) so don't think too long but grab at the opportunity to be really prepared for the last part of Indiana Jones' adventures.
  You get quite a handful of new (and not so new) extra material thrown in but it is the movies that really matter. And they are so fresh and full of live that it is hard to believe it has been a while since Indiana Jones seemed to have retired for good.
  
  

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