The Indiana Jones Universe

In today's episode, we are extremely honored to be joined by Deepa Mehta, who is an exceptionally talented transnational director and screenwriter. In her first ever exclusive Young Indy interview, she reminisces about some of her most memorable behind-the-scenes stories from directing Benares, 1910 and Greece, 1910. During this casual and compelling conversation, she discusses why curiosity is the most important aspect of filmmaking, how George Lucas made her realize that intellect and humanity matter more than technicality, and why she decided to change the final scene in the Benares episode at the last second.

In today's episode, we are extremely honored to be joined by David Hare, who is an award-winning playwright, screenwriter, and filmmaker. In his first ever exclusive Young Indy interview, he reminisces about some of his most memorable behind-the-scenes stories from directing Paris, 1919. During this casual and compelling conversation, he discusses the incredible actors he had the chance to work with, why production design and cinematography were incredibly important to recreate the Paris Peace Conference, and why he (respectfully) declined to work on Star Wars with George Lucas.

In today's episode, we decided to rank all of the Young Indiana Jones episodes from worst to best. Join us for the adventure of a lifetime! Opening music excerpt was composed by Laurence Rosenthal and is titled "Main Title"

In today's episode, we are extremely honored to be joined by Carl Schultz, who is one of the most talented and distinguished Australian directors of all time. In his first ever exclusive Young Indy interview, he reminisces about some of his most memorable behind-the-scenes stories from directing Passion for Life, Spring Break Adventure, Love's Sweet Song, Treasure of the Peacock's Eye, and Mystery of the Blues. During this casual and compelling conversation, he discusses the early stages of casting, his incredible expeditions in Kenya and Thailand with native tribes, and how he brought jazz music to life with Joel McNeely. Opening music excerpt was composed by Joel McNeely and is titled "Countryside Courtship"

In today's episode, we are extremely honored to be joined by Jule Selbo, who is an outstanding screenwriter, playwright, and novelist. Most notably, she was one of the extraordinary writers that worked with George Lucas to create several episodes of Young Indiana Jones. During this casual and compelling conversation, she reminisces about her most memorable moments working with George Lucas in the Young Indy writer's room, why she was interested in exploring the themes of romance and physics in the Florence episode, and how the war years impacted Indy's decision to part ways with Remy in Treasure of the Peacock's Eye. Opening music excerpt was composed by Steve Bramson and is titled "The Letter"

In today's episode, we are extremely honored to be joined by Gavin Scott, who is an exceptional British screenwriter, novelist, and broadcaster. Most notably, he was one of the extraordinary writers that worked with George Lucas to create several episodes of Young Indiana Jones. During this casual and compelling conversation, he discusses the importance of brainstorming during the early stages of screenwriting, his incredible collaboration with Terry Jones to create comedic espionage in Barcelona, and how he got inspired to create an iconic moment of incandescent rage during Indy's outrageous adventure to install a telephone. Opening music excerpt was composed by Laurence Rosenthal and is unofficially titled "Barber Shop"

In today's episode, we continue exploring the original score for Indiana Jones and the Staff of Kings with an intriguing discussion about the eight additional tracks that were created for the game by several unknown composers. We discuss where each track can be heard in the game while also comparing and contrasting this music with Gordy Haab and Ray Harman's original score. We'll also play samples of the music so you can follow along with our discussion! Opening music excerpt was composed by Gordy Haab and is titled "Magnus Voller's Theme"

In today's episode, we commemorate the 40th anniversary of Temple of Doom, which first premiered on May 23rd, 1984! To honor this monumental occasion, we decided to revisit the official soundtrack of the film and talk about each iteration of the "Raiders March" that appears in the score. We explore why John Williams decided to alter this iconic theme for specific moments in the film and how those similarities and differences affect the emotional impact of each scene. We'll also play samples of the music so you can follow along with our discussion! Opening music excerpt was composed by John Williams and is titled "Slave Children's Crusade"

In today's episode, we discuss Gordy Haab and Ray Harman's original score for Indiana Jones and the Staff of Kings! Join us for an exciting in-depth discussion about each track from the game as we talk about how Gordy Haab tries to imitate the style and orchestration of John Williams and how that approach contrasts Ray Harman's ambient and atmospheric soundscapes. We'll also play samples of the music so you can follow along with our discussion! Opening music excerpt was composed by Gordy Haab and is titled "Nazi Battle"

In today's episode, we conclude our long-awaited discussion and detailed analysis for Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny. Join us as we discuss the epic climax and sentimental ending to this iconic film. Opening music excerpt was composed by John Williams and is titled "Prologue to Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny"

In today's episode, we take a look at the first official gameplay trailer for the brand new video game Indiana Jones and the Great Circle! We begin with a frame-by-frame analysis of the trailer to talk about lots of important details and observations. We also discuss the behind-the-scenes footage from the Xbox developer direct video, the return of composer Gordy Haab, the controversial first-person combat mechanics, and so much more. Opening music excerpt was composed by Gordy Haab and is titled "Fight in Panama"

In today's episode, we finally begin our long-awaited discussion and detailed analysis for Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny! Join us for an exciting conversation about the latest installment of this iconic film franchise! Opening music excerpt was composed by John Williams and is titled "Germany, 1944"

In today's episode, we take a look at all of the unproduced episode ideas from Season 3 of Young Indiana Jones by examining resources from Lucasfilm! Over the years, there have been many stories that were considered for the next great Indy adventure, which included exciting encounters with characters such as Belloq and Abner Ravenwood. Join us as we review and explore the history of it all! Opening music excerpt was composed by Frederic Talgorn and is titled "Paris, 1908 (unused score)"

In today's episode, we are extremely honored to be joined by Gillies MacKinnon, who is an award-winning Scottish filmmaker. In his first ever exclusive Young Indy interview, he reminisces about some of his most memorable behind-the-scenes stories from directing Ireland, 1916. During this casual and compelling conversation, he discusses why rhythm is the most important aspect of filmmaking, how he and Rick McCallum experimented with CGI while they were recreating historical battle scenes in Dublin, and how his first intimidating encounter with George Lucas led to a delightful reward. Opening music excerpt was composed by Laurence Rosenthal and is titled "Welcome to Ireland"

In today's episode, we are extremely honored to be joined by Thomas Riddle, who is a remarkable historian and educator. During this insightful interview, he shares some behind-the-scenes details about creating the educational project "Indy in the Classroom". He talks about why Young Indiana Jones is such an effective method for teaching history, why storytelling is a terrific way to enhance student engagement, and how he got the opportunity to collaborate with Lucasfilm to promote the educational benefits of teaching with Indiana Jones. To conclude this compelling conversation, he shares his opinions about Dial of Destiny! Opening music excerpt was composed by Laurence Rosenthal and is titled "Two New Friends"

In today's episode, we conclude our discussion of the comic series The Further Adventures of Indiana Jones with Issue 27, Trial of the Golden Guns. In this comic, Indy barely evades a punishing death from four horses after getting trapped by Pugachev. Once he is rescued by Beth, they travel with Peter to Count Salkovich's estate to execute an ambush and sneak inside. After Indy triumphantly wins his duel with Count Salkovich, Beth makes an unexpected decision that subsequently grants her ownership of the golden guns. Opening music excerpt was composed by John Williams and is titled "Fast Streets of Shanghai"

In today's episode, we continue discussing the comic series The Further Adventures of Indiana Jones with Issue 26, Trail of the Golden Guns. In this comic, Indy is rescued by Short Round after scuba diving in the ocean to search for the lost city of Atlantis. However, when Indy returns to Marshall College, another adventure awaits. Indy is hired by Efrem Decker to learn more about the disappearance of rare firearms that once belonged to the legendary cowboy Buffalo Bill. Opening music excerpt was composed by John Williams and is titled "The Mine Car Chase"

In today's episode, we discuss the first official trailer for Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny! Join us for an exciting discussion as we breakdown the trailer frame-by-frame and talk about lots of important details and observations. We'll also discuss the additional promotional videos for the film, the exciting announcement that Indiana Jones has returned to digital streaming, and so much more! Opening music excerpt was composed by John Williams and is titled "Marcus is Captured / To Berlin"

In today's episode, we continue discussing the comic series The Further Adventures of Indiana Jones with Issue 10, The Gold Goddess: Amazon Death-Ride. In this comic, Indy's pursuit to retrieve the Chachapoyan idol continues when he travels to Brazil. He suddenly comes face to face with Ilsa Toht, the sister of Ernst Toht, who is also after the idol. After a frightening encounter with alligators, Indy defeats Ilsa in a daring seaplane escape and finally recovers the idol at last. Opening music excerpt was composed by John Williams and is titled "The German Sub"

In today's episode, we continue discussing the comic series The Further Adventures of Indiana Jones with Issue 9, The Gold Goddess: Xomec's Raiders. In this comic, Indy successfully discovers the Chachapoyan idol after a daring adventure in Marrakesh. In this direct sequel to Raiders of the Lost Ark, Indy reunites with Sallah, Marcus, and Marion in New York City for this exciting triumph. However, Indy comes face to face with Xomec, the leader of the Hovitos, who has returned to reclaim the sacred idol once and for all. Opening music excerpt was composed by John Williams and is titled "The Snake Pit"

In today's episode, we continue discussing the comic series The Further Adventures of Indiana Jones with Issue 18, The Search for Abner: The City of Yesterday's Forever. In this comic, Indy finally reaches the city of Ra-Lundi and learns about the F'Han-Tal temple. After watching a ritual human sacrifice, Indy decides to destroy the temple and confront the ruler of the city, Chen Sha, who has a strong lust for power. However, Indy is quickly saved by a mysterious masked man who defeats Chen Sha, which allows Indy and Marion to escape. Marion suspects it might be Abner, but he refuses to reveal his true identity... Opening music excerpt was composed by John Williams and is titled "The Basket Game"

In today's episode, we continue discussing the comic series The Further Adventures of Indiana Jones with Issue 17, The Search for Abner: The Grecian Earn. In this comic, Marion receives a telegram about her father's disappearance and quickly recruits Indy to travel to Greece with her in search of the long lost city of Ra-Lundi, where Abner is rumored to be alive. However, Indy encounters an old foe along the way who is eager to deliver some long-awaited revenge. Opening music excerpt was composed by John Williams and is titled "The Medallion"

In today's episode, we discuss the first official trailer for Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny! Join us for an exciting discussion as we breakdown the trailer frame-by-frame and talk about lots of important details and observations. We also debate whether Dial of Destiny is a sufficient title, what the future of the Indiana Jones franchise might look like, and so much more! For a chance to win a FREE Indiana Jones t-shirt, fill out this quick podcast survey! Submissions available until February 28th: https://forms.gle/9sJ27nESFyD11B4J9

In today's episode, we are extremely honored to be joined by Matthew Jacobs, who is a remarkable British director, writer, and actor. In his first ever exclusive Young Indy interview, he reminisces about some of his most memorable behind-the-scenes stories from his experience working as a screenwriter to create six episodes of the show. During this casual and compelling conversation, he discusses the importance of creating three dimensional characters, his incredible collaboration with George Lucas and Debbie Fine at Skywalker Ranch, and how he got the chance to write an unproduced episode titled Stockholm, 1909. Opening music excerpt was composed by Laurence Rosenthal and is titled "Discovery of the Oryx / Sacrifice"

In today's episode, we are extremely honored to be joined by René Manzor, who is an outstanding French director, screenwriter, and novelist. In this captivating interview, he reminisces about some of his most memorable behind-the-scenes stories from directing Verdun, 1916 and Paris, 1908. During this casual and compelling conversation, he discusses the importance of visual storytelling in order to emphasize the theme of a script, his incredible collaboration with Rick McCallum to recreate the battle scenes of Verdun, and how an unexpected accident became the best deleted scene of his career. Opening music excerpt was composed by Joel McNeely and is titled "Remembering Verdun"

In today's episode, we are extremely honored to be joined by Simon Wincer, who is one of the most talented and distinguished Australian directors. In his first ever exclusive Young Indy interview, he reminisces about some of his most memorable behind-the-scenes stories from working on Oganga: The Giver and Taker of Life, Trenches of Hell, Adventures in the Secret Service, and Daredevils of the Desert. During this casual and compelling conversation, he discusses some of the most important elements of cinematography to achieve such an iconic epic style, the importance of great screenwriting in order to create captivating characters, and some of the best advice he ever received from George Lucas. Opening music excerpt was composed by Joel McNeely and is titled "Morning"

In today's episode, we conclude our discussion of the television show The Adventures of Young Indiana Jones with Chapter 22, Hollywood Follies. After heading out to California, Indy gets a job working at Universal City, but his enthusiasm is short lived when he realizes that he is no match for the eccentric director Erich Von Stroheim. Later on, Indy eventually becomes captivated by filmmaking when he gets to team up with western legends John Ford and Wyatt Earp to work as an assistant and stuntman for their new film Six Steps to Hell. Opening music excerpt was composed by Laurence Rosenthal and is titled "Broadway to Hollywood"

In today's episode, we discuss Joel McNeely's extravagant score for The Scandal of 1920. Join us as we discuss the musical techniques, tones/styles, instrumentation, and how the orchestration in this episode perfectly creates this atmospheric setting for the roaring twenties. We'll also play samples of the music so you can follow along with our discussion! Opening music excerpt was composed by Joel McNeely and is titled "Somebody Loves Me"

In today's episode, we continue our discussion of the television show The Adventures of Young Indiana Jones with Chapter 21, The Scandal of 1920. During his trip to New York City, Indy works as a stage manager for a prolific broadway musical and also befriends composer George Gershwin. Meanwhile, Indy gets caught up in the romance of the roaring twenties as he falls in love with three different women in as many days, which leads to one ceremonious night of mayhem and music! Opening music excerpt was composed by Joel McNeely and is titled "Harem Dance / Beachball Dance"

In today's episode, we discuss Joel McNeely's impressive score to Mystery of the Blues. Join us as we discuss the musical techniques, tones/styles, instrumentation, and many of the behind-the-scenes details about this journey through the jazz era. We'll also play samples of the music so you can follow along with our discussion! Opening music excerpt was composed by Joel McNeely and is titled "12th Street Rag"

In today's episode, we continue our discussion of the television show The Adventures of Young Indiana Jones with Chapter 20, Mystery of the Blues. As Indy begins his collegiate studies at the University of Chicago, he spends his weekends working as a waiter at Colosimo's restaurant, where he learns the art of jazz from Sidney Bechet. Later, Indy reunites with Ernest Hemingway as they work together to solve a murder during the height of the prohibition era, which leads to an encounter with Al Capone. Opening music excerpt was composed by Joel McNeely and is unofficially titled "Police Station / Patatoe Blooz"

In today's episode, we celebrate the 30th anniversary of The Young Indiana Jones Chronicles, which first premiered on March 4th, 1992! To honor this monumental occasion, we rank our top thirty favorite characters from the series. We discuss the incredible casting for the show, some of the famous actors who played iconic minor roles, and the fantastic interpretations of many historical figures from the 20th century. Join us for this exciting and spontaneous episode to celebrate the best television series of all time! Opening music excerpt was composed by Joel McNeely and is titled "Tally Ho"

We're back! In this brief introductory episode, Will introduces Elijah as the next co-host and together they discuss the new changes for the podcast, what episodes you can expect moving forward, and how you can contribute to Season 2. Website: www.theindianajonesuniverse.com Twitter: @theindyuniverse

In today's episode, Max announces his decision to resign as the co-host of The Indiana Jones Universe podcast. To commemorate Max's final episode, we reflect on producing this podcast for two years and how our friendship led to its creation. Then, we dive into some behind the scenes facts about the podcast and discuss some of our most memorable Indiana Jones moments. After an exciting adventure, Max's final days on the podcast have come to a close, so join us to bid him farewell! Opening music excerpt was composed by John Williams and is titled "Marion's Theme / The Crate"

In today's episode, we take a look at the sole issue of the official Young Indiana Jones Chronicles magazine which was published in 1992! Inside this rare antiquity, we'll breakdown the two original stories that are part of the Indiana Jones canon. First, we'll review the two page comic strip "Mid Atlantic, 1916" which involves the story of Indy and Remy's steamship voyage from Mexico to Europe. Then, we'll dive into a short story called "Indy in China: The Runaway Adventure" which takes place directly after the Peking, 1910 episode when Indy meets a young girl named Yang Wei. Opening music excerpt was composed by Laurence Rosenthal and is titled "An American Thanksgiving / A Chinese Adventure"

In today's episode, we continue discussing the comic series The Further Adventures of Indiana Jones with Issue 16, The Sea Butchers: Death on Dark Waters. In this comic, Indy escapes the quicksand trap and reunites with Captain Katanga as they try to stop the pirates from destroying the Chung Hua temple. Regrettably, things don't go their way, but soon after Indy quickly takes charge of the Bantu Wind to stop Emeralda once and for all. Opening music excerpt was composed by John Williams and is unofficially titled "The Rocket Sled"

In today's episode, we continue discussing the comic series The Further Adventures of Indiana Jones with Issue 15, The Sea Butchers. In this comic, Indy reunites with his friend Jock as they fly aboard his seaplane to take photographs of an ancient Chinese Temple. After a visit to Marshall college, Indy enlists the help of Captain Katanga to take him to one of the Aleutian Islands aboard the Bantu Wind. However, other people are after the lost civilization, too, including a band of pirates who won't go down without a fight. Opening music excerpt was composed by John Williams and is titled "Death of Kazim"

In today's episode, we discuss Joel McNeely's romantic score to Demons of Deception. Join us as we discuss the musical techniques, tones/styles, instrumentation, and how the orchestration perfectly represents the themes of love during Paris in the 20th century. We'll also play samples of the music so you can follow along with our discussion! Opening music excerpt was composed by Joel McNeely and is titled "L'Affaire d'Amour"

In today's episode, we continue our discussion of the television show The Adventures of Young Indiana Jones with Chapter 19, Winds of Change. After his adventure in the Pacific Islands, Indy arrives in France working for the American delegation as a translator during the Paris Peace Conference where he reunites with Ned and also meets Ho Chi Minh. Later, Indy finally returns home to Princeton after being away for nearly three years as he receives an unwelcome response from his father. Opening music excerpt was composed by Laurence Rosenthal and is unofficially titled "The Future is Here"

In today's episode, we discuss and explore the PSP version of the video game Indiana Jones & The Staff of Kings. Despite being relatively similar to the base game, we analyze all the similarities and differences involving the plot, graphics, and overall gameplay experience. We also discuss some general behind the scenes facts about the series to conclude our Staff of Kings review. Opening music excerpt was composed by Gordy Haab and is titled "Elephant Chase"

In today's episode, we celebrate the 40th anniversary of Raiders of the Lost Ark which first premiered on June 12th, 1981! To honor this monumental occasion, we take a look at the iconic theme of the Raiders March as we analyze, discuss, and critique why this music makes the character of Indiana Jones so iconic. Then, in a mini soundtrack review, we begin talking about the evolution of the Raiders March and the various renditions that appear throughout the film. Join us as we celebrate the best film of all time! Opening music excerpt was composed by John Williams and is titled "Ride to the Nazi Hideout"

In today's episode, we continue discussing the comic series The Further Adventures of Indiana Jones with Issue 25, Good as Gold. In this comic, Indy travels to the Peruvian Andes and discovers a stone tablet that may pinpoint the location of the El Dorado treasure. However, Indy isn't the only one seeking the lost civilization, though, as crook Ivar Reiss quickly catches up to Indy in a daring train chase to steal the wealth for himself. Opening music excerpt was composed by John Williams and is titled "Alarm!"

In today's episode, we discuss Steve Bramson's incredible score to Treasure of the Peacock's Eye. Join us as we discuss the musical techniques, tones/styles, instrumentation, and the great mix of originality and references to John Williams' work that is present in the score. We'll also play samples of the music so you can follow along with our discussion! Opening music excerpt was composed by Steve Bramson and is titled “Finding the Treasure"

In today's episode, we continue our discussion of the television show The Adventures of Young Indiana Jones with Chapter 18, Treasure of the Peacock's Eye. As the war comes to an end, Indy and Remy embark on a final adventure together in pursuit of a diamond that once belonged to Alexander the Great. Later, Indy and Remy part ways after anthropologist Bronislaw Malinowksi convinces Indy to return home to study archaeology. Opening music excerpt was composed by Steve Bramson and is titled "One Last Adventure"

In today's episode, we continue discussing the comic series The Further Adventures of Indiana Jones with Issue 6, Club Nightmare. In this comic, Indy decides to meet Marion in Manhattan where she has opened a brand new nightclub. On opening night, a performance by Frank Sinatra is interrupted as the structure collapses and damages the stage. Meanwhile, Marion and Indy have a sneaking suspicion that antiquities dealer Jamal is using the nightclub as a cover for stealing artifacts. Opening music excerpt was composed by John Williams and is titled "A Whirl Through Academe"

In today's episode, we discuss which villain should be considered Indy's greatest foe! In this ultimate character study, we share our list of the top ten most challenging villains Indy has ever faced. Then, we debate our two picks, Belloq and Mola Ram, while also playing devil's advocate to argue for the other eight characters we considered. Opening music excerpt was composed by John Williams and is titled “Uncovering the Ark”

In today's episode, we continue exploring the video game Indiana Jones & The Staff of Kings with level six, Odin. As Indy sneaks aboard the zeppelin, he gets himself into many fist fights along the way which eventually leads to a daring seabed chase against Magnus Voller to retrieve the staff once and for all. Opening music excerpt was composed by Gordy Haab and is titled "Seabed Chase"

In today's episode, we discuss Curt Sobel's chilling score to Masks of Evil. Join us as we discuss the musical techniques, tones/styles, instrumentation, and how the use of advanced orchestral techniques create the terrifying sound for the character of Dracula. We'll also play samples of the music so you can follow along with our discussion! Opening music excerpt was composed by Curt Sobel and is titled "Off to Romania"

In today's episode, we continue our discussion of the television show The Adventures of Young Indiana Jones with Chapter 17, Masks of Evil. In Istanbul, Indy works with a group of spies to try and convince General Mustafa Kemal to sign a separate peace between France and Turkey. Later, Indy travels to Transylvania as he investigates a mysterious haunted castle and comes face to face with Vlad the Impaler. Opening music excerpt was composed by Curt Sobel and is titled "Venice / Fortune Teller"

In today's episode, we are joined by our friend Sam to talk all about the connections between Indiana Jones and Star Wars as we discuss the fan theory that the Indiana Jones films are just Han Solo's dreams while he's frozen in carbonite! We'll talk about obvious and also hidden references like Club Obi-Wan, where you can spot Snaggletooth in Raiders, the Star Wars quotes used in Young Indy, and more. To end the episode, we'll also review the award winning fan film "Star Wars Origins". Join us for this ultimate Star Wars and Indiana Jones crossover episode! Opening music excerpt was composed by John Williams and is titled "The Return of the Jedi"

In today's episode, we talk all about Indiana Jones 5! Join us as we breakdown all the behind the scene details since 2010, the future of the Indiana Jones franchise, a mini review of Kingdom of the Crystal Skull, and so much more! Opening music excerpt was composed by John Williams and is titled "Escape from Venice"