Ready for some historical fun – for free – with a film that was considered by many to be the best out of its series? Then, you’re in for a treat.
One of the most beloved entries in its legendary action-adventure franchise, Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade is airing on Saturday, May 17 at 7:30pm on ITV2.
With its blend of humour, heart, and history, the third instalment of the Indiana Jones saga is often considered the perfect example of how to make a blockbuster sequel – and more than three decades later, it still delivers.
Released in 1989, The Last Crusade reunited director Steven Spielberg, producer George Lucas, and star Harrison Ford for a lighter, more emotionally resonant follow-up to the darker Temple of Doom. The plot centres on Indiana Jones’ search for the Holy Grail, but the real treasure lies in his fraught relationship with his father, Professor Henry Jones Sr., played by Sean Connery.
When Henry goes missing during his search for the Grail, Indiana must rescue him, only to find the two embroiled in a deadly race against the Nazis. From the winding canals of Venice to a Nazi-occupied castle in Austria, all the way to the ancient temples of Jordan’s Petra, the film never slows down.
But the plotline that stands out is the dynamic between father and son – two men who are alike in intellect but couldn’t be more different in temperament.
That chemistry, combined with Spielberg’s masterful direction, a witty script from Jeffrey Boam, and John Williams’ score, helped the film become a critical and commercial success. It grossed over $470 million worldwide and was widely acclaimed, boasting an 84% Fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
One reviewer summed up its appeal perfectly: “This movie is Raiders, but better in like, every way. It’s exciting, it’s super funny, you buy the emotional connection between Indy and his dad, the villains are great, the action is superb, Marcus Brody is such an endlessly entertaining buffoon. Just watch this movie if you enjoy fun. It’s the best Indiana Jones movie and one of the best Spielberg movies.”
The Last Crusade brought back many of the lighter elements that made Raiders of the Lost Ark a classic, including Denholm Elliott as Marcus Brody and John Rhys-Davies as Sallah, Indy’s ever-reliable ally.
While Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (2008) and The Dial of Destiny (2023) extended the franchise in later years, many fans still see The Last Crusade as the true end of the saga – a near-perfect blend of action, humour, and heart.
One reviewer calls it “an instant classic. With a stellar soundtrack and perfect acting, the Indiana Jones franchise is a remarkable piece of American film history that will always be remembered.” Another adds: “Practically perfect in every way, The Last Crusade is the perfect closing chapter of the original Indiana Jones trilogy.”
Whether you’ve never seen it before or you just want to relive the magic, Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade airs this Saturday, May 17 at 7:30pm on ITV2.