Why Did it Have to be Snakes

Indiana Jones the fictional character created by George Lucas and Steven Spielberg after the 1930's serials. Dr Henry Walton Jones Jr, PhD, adventurer, OSS operative, professor of archaeology and central character in every film. Has also been portrayed by River Phoenix, Sean Patrick Flanery and Doug Hall.

Indiana Jones cannot be mistaken in silhouette due to particular features such as his fedora, bullwhip and leather jacket and his World War II customised gas mask bag. His particular sense of humour, understanding of archaeology and languages, not forgetting his hatred and fear of snakes. are strongly featured in each of the movies. The revolver he uses is a World War I revolver, which also changes from film to film.

Tom Selleck was the first choice for the role, but due to another obligation (Magnum) was unable to take the role on. Ford was initially the most unlikely candidate for the role. Due to the fact that George Lucas had used him in three of his other movies. Lucas didn't like the idea that Harrison Ford would be his "Bobby DeNiro", owing to the fact Robert DeNiro had appeared in most of Martin Scorsese's movies. After countless casting sessions fortunately George Lucas came to the conclusion that Harrison Ford was the right actor for the job.

Initially the surname Smith was used, but fortunately Spielberg disapproved and though Jones would be better. A surname that suits the character. Can you imagine if he had stuck with "Indiana Smith"! The movies might not have taken off the way that they did. I like the fact that George Lucas's dog, an Alaskan malamute was the inspiration for the name. Even including it at the end of "The Last Crusade".

Indiana Jones is one of the most beloved and cherished movie heroes of all time. He is ingrained in our national consciousness, yet the franchise has only been around for 29 years. With an unforgettable movie opening in "Raiders of the Lost Ark", and theme that everyone recognises this character has all round appeal. Introducing Sean Connery as his dad was a stroke of genius on Lucas and Spielberg's part. The pair made a double act, bouncing off each other perfectly.