Decoding the Indiana Jones Canon

The ‘Indiana Jones’ franchise has yet to recapture the iconic status it held during the original trilogy's release. However, new fans discover the charm of Indy every day, realizing why each instalment is celebrated in its own right. With the upcoming release of ‘Indiana Jones and the Great Circle’, it's the perfect opportunity for newcomers to explore the series, though the vast amount of content—five films, a TV series, comics, books, and games—can be daunting. Additionally, the canon status of many projects can be unclear, adding to the confusion.

Understanding the ‘Indiana Jones’ timeline may seem complex, but it can be navigated. Although the films are not presented in chronological order, and the series and spinoffs sometimes introduce plot holes, there is a coherent narrative beneath the chaos. Under Disney's management, the franchise has seen some elements shifted in and out of canon, simplifying things somewhat.

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The franchise begins with ‘Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom’, which is the earliest story, set in 1935. This film introduces Short Round, a clever young sidekick, and Willie Scott, Indy's love interest, as they navigate a perilous cult in India. Directed by Spielberg, it’s notable for its thrilling atmosphere and character dynamics.

Following that, ‘Raiders of the Lost Ark’ is set in 1936 and reintroduces Indy as he races against the Nazis for the Ark of the Covenant. The film is filled with iconic moments, including the famous boulder chase.

The trilogy concludes with ‘Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade’, set in 1938, focusing on Indy’s quest for the Holy Grail and exploring his relationship with his father, which adds emotional depth to the adventure.

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After a long hiatus, ‘Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull’ was released in 2008, bringing the story into the Cold War era of 1957, where Indy faces Soviet agents. The timeline continues with 

‘Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny’, which is set in 1969 and features an older Indy navigating personal losses while confronting the remnants of past conflicts.

Beyond the films, ‘The Young Indiana Jones Chronicles’ is essential viewing, set before the main films and showcasing Indy’s early adventures. Though various games fill in narrative gaps, their canon status is uncertain. The upcoming film, ‘Indiana Jones and the Great Circle’, is expected to fit into the official timeline, occurring between ‘Raiders of the Lost Ark’ and ‘The Last Crusade’.

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Ultimately, the recognized canon according to Disney includes: ‘The Young Indiana Jones Chronicles’, ‘Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom’, ‘Raiders of the Lost Ark’, ‘Indiana Jones and the Great Circle’, ‘Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade’, ‘Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull’, and ‘Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny’.

–Farheen Ali