The Return Of Indiana Jones

by Michele Cheplic | More from this Blogger

22 Oct 2006 07:30 AM

Fans of Indiana Jones' movies ("Raiders of the Lost Ark," "Temple of Doom" and "The Last Crusade") have reason to celebrate today. Actor Harrison Ford (who played Indiana Jones in all three movies) has announced that he feels "fit to continue" to play the adventurous character in a fourth film.

The 64-year-old actor made the announcement at the inaugural Rome Film Festival; despite he says his "advancement in years." Ford told reporters he was delighted to team up again with directors Steven Spielberg and George Lucas for the film. (Lucas co-wrote and executive produced the earlier films, which Spielberg directed.) He went on to say that it is about time a new chapter in the Jones series was unveiled.

"We did three films that stay within the same block of time. We need to move on for artistic reasons and obvious physical reasons," Ford said at a news conference. "I feel fit to continue and bring the same physical action."

While it may appear as though the idea for the fourth film was just hatched, in reality, Ford says, "Indiana Jones 4" has been in development for over a decade, but the production has only recently gained momentum. Lucas has said he and Spielberg, who would direct, are working on a script, though no details have been disclosed.

It has been a while since Ford appeared as Indiana Jones on the big screen. The first Jones movie "Raiders of the Lost Ark," was released in 1981 followed by 1984's "Temple of Doom" and 1989's "The Last Crusade." In the last film, Sean Connery, who Ford said might also appear in the planned fourth feature, played Jones' father.

"He's part of the emotional fabric of these films. I think there may be an opportunity, I believe that Sean is still willing and I'd be delighted if he joined us," said Ford.

Despite being prodded by reporters Ford steadfastly declined to provide details about a shooting schedule or film locations, adding that the directors were not yet finished with the script.

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Learn more about Michele Cheplic

Michele Cheplic was born and raised in Hilo, Hawaii, but now lives in Wisconsin. Michele graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Journalism.

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Megan Bayliss (3586) 22 Oct 2006 02:58 PM

YAHOO - Master 11 will be most delighted. He's only just seen the first 3 nd loved them. When can we expect the film?

Michele Cheplic (37445) 23 Oct 2006 12:14 PM

Megan, I'm sure it won't be for a while since the script is still a work in progress. Hang in there!