Harrison Ford discusses the filming of a pantsless scene with Sean Connery in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. After the mixed reception of Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom in 1984, Ford and director Steven Spielberg aimed to bring a lighter tone to the character in the 1989 film. Connery plays Indy's father in the movie, joining him on a mission to outsmart the Nazis in their quest for the Holy Grail.
In a previous interview, Connery disclosed that both he and Ford had removed their pants for the blimp scene in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. In a recent interview with GQ that coincides with the release of Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, Ford provides further details about the incident. To see the relevant part of the interview, please watch the video below, starting at 4:53.
Ford commented on his good working relationship with Connery on set, and revealed that their extreme sweating in the heat led them to film the blimp scene without pants. See Ford's full statement below:
"It was such a joy to work with him. We had a fantastic rapport. Connery tended to sweat a lot, especially wearing those heavy wool pants. Due to the heat, he decided to remove his pants, and I agreed it was the right thing to do. So there we were, two men without pants, captured on film from the waist up."
Is The Last Crusade The Best Indiana Jones Movie?
Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom gained notoriety for its excessively dark nature, drawing criticism for its unsettling portrayal of horror and insensitivity towards Indian culture. This backlash prompted Spielberg to steer the franchise in a different direction, resulting in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, widely regarded as the most lighthearted and enjoyable adventure in the series. The shift in tone was well-received, receiving praise from both audiences and critics.
Although the film's success can be attributed to its captivating quest, formidable villains, and thrilling action, it is Connery's portrayal of Henry Jones Sr. that truly elevates it. Connery's dynamic on-screen chemistry with Ford brings humor to their father-son relationship, adding depth to the beloved hero of the franchise. As a result, this film stands out as the most emotionally impactful installment in the original trilogy.
The third film is often considered the best in the franchise due to these elements. However, Raiders of the Lost Ark is also a timeless classic that effectively combines the seriousness of Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom with the lightheartedness of Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. Ultimately, personal preference will determine which Indiana Jones adventure is the favorite, but the inclusion of Connery in the third film truly adds to the memorability of Ford's iconic hero.