Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom (1984)

Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom

• Coming in as the 15th perfect movie in Berry History, this movie is just so unbelievably good. Before I get started, I want to clarify something about the score and how it compares with Raiders. I think that Raiders is the best movie of the series, but, I’m still giving this movie a 100% as well. I considered giving this one a 99%, to show that Raiders (which has a 100% Berry Score) is the better movie. However, Ke Huy Quan’s performance gives this movie the bump it needs to hit 100%. So to clarify everything: although this movie matches the same Berry Score as Raiders, I still think Raiders is the best movie of the franchise. Anyways, this one is definitely my favorite, and the first time I ever watched it was so memorable. Technically, it’s a prequel, as it takes place a year before Raiders does. I love the story so much, and especially the setting. This is definitely one of the darkest movies ever made. Of course, compared to today’s movies, this one probably seems pretty mild. But, for 1984, I guarantee it was terrifying, and some bits of it still kind of freak me out. I love all the characters, especially both Indy and Short Round. As mentioned before, Quan’s performance is so great, and he can make me both laugh and cry. I’m seriously hoping he returns for Indy 5, and if he doesn’t, I will be so ticked off. I also like Capshaw’s performance, although it’s definitely a little over the top. The soundtrack is so ridiculously good, because, of course, John freaking Williams. The iconic Indy theme returns, as well as, and especially, Slave Children’s Crusade. It’s easily one of the best themes ever written for a movie. The use of Cole Porter’s “Anything Goes” is also awesome. Speaking of awesome, the opening scene (everything up until Indy gets on the plane) is probably my favorite opening movie scene of all time. I also enjoy the effects of the movie, though sometimes they are a little cheesy. The palace meal scene is awesome, and if you’ve seen this, then you know dang well what I’m talking about. Overall, this movie is so freaking awesome, and though it has a few minuscule kinks, it’s still perfect in my eyes. I would most definitely recommend it to all action/adventure fans, and you don’t need to see Raiders of the Lost Ark before seeing this (it’s up to you). This film is officially Berry Approved, so go watch it now!