Archaeologist Indiana Jones races against time to retrieve a legendary artifact that can change the course of history.

One of the most impactful franchises in movie history has returned for one grand final outing, with Harrison Ford showing that at age 80, he’s still one of the most lovable and awesome stars in cinema history. The physicality and charm he gives to the role invokes the heroism he’s had since his younger days, but also shows his dedication, charisma and love for his work that continues into his later career. The rest of the actors are very well cast, including Phoebe Waller-Bridge as Indy’s curious, sarcastic goddaughter. Though their banter is fun, their bond that grows throughout the film doesn’t quite reach the legendary dynamic between Indy and his father, played by Sean Connery in The Last Crusade; she’s much better than Shia LaBeouf in Kingdom of the Crystal Skull, though. Mads Mikkelsen never misses as the villain, who also has a very audacious motive, though it should’ve been revealed earlier in the film. Boyd Holbrook is especially great is the main antagonist’s right-hand man as well. Antonio Banderas is lots of fun as an old friend of Indy’s, as is John Rhys-Davies returning as Sallah, who’s been a beloved part of the franchise from the start.

Though some may raise an eyebrow when they see this film is the first movie in the franchise not to be directed by Spielberg, one would be a fool to ever doubt James Mangold (of Logan and Ford v Ferrari). The visual look of the film, from an incredibly immersive and entertaining opening scene that gives you the true Indy feel, is stunning, with the film-like cinematography, the production design and the background effects creating a historical globe-trotting action adventure of the largest scale possible. Not to mention John Williams, whose musical scores have transported us to these grand cinematic worlds for six decades. The music, including the iconic Indy theme, which is one of the most recognizable leitmotifs in music history, gives the film that same adventurous and timeless sense his films have been giving us since Jaws. Not to mention, the mythology and different historical settings the films explore are always fun to journey along with the characters. Dial of Destiny delivers on the promise of a visually spectacular sequel with an adventurous spirit that proves once again Harrison Ford’s place in movie and action star history.