Movies like Indiana Jones are often called adventure films or action-adventure films.
These movies typically feature a brave and charismatic hero who quests or journeys to uncover a hidden treasure, solve a mystery, or save the world from evil forces.
Indiana Jones is a beloved adventure movie franchise that has captured the imagination of audiences for decades.
With its iconic character, thrilling action sequences, and exotic locations, it’s no wonder that franchise fans are always looking for similar movies to enjoy.
Plenty of exciting options exist if you’re a fan of adventure movies like Indiana Jones. Here are some great examples:
1. The African Queen (1951)
- Director: John Huston
- Cast: Humphrey Bogart, Katharine Hepburn, Robert Morley, Peter Bull, Theodore Bikel, Walter Gotell, and Peter Swanwick
- IMDb Rating: 7.7/10
The African Queen is a classic adventure film that tells the story of Charlie Allnut.
He is a rough and rugged boat captain, and Rose Sayer is a missionary thrown together by fate during World War I.
When the Germans invade East Africa, Rose’s brother is killed, and her village is destroyed.
Charlie offers to take her downriver to safety on his rickety old boat, the African Queen.
The unlikely duo faces dangerous obstacles as they journey down the river, including rapids, wildlife, and enemy soldiers.
Along the way, they develop feelings for each other and devise a plan to strike.
However, the plan was to blow against the Germans by taking out a heavily armed warship blocking their path. This film is one of the best movies like Indiana Jones.
Through their shared experiences, Charlie and Rose learn to rely on each other, and their differences become a source of strength.
Their daring plan to sink the warship culminates in a thrilling finale that showcases their bravery and ingenuity.
The African Queen is a timeless adventure that showcases the triumph of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
2. The Goonies (1985)
- Director: Richard Donner
- Cast: Sean Astin, Josh Brolin, Corey Feldman, Jeff Cohen, Kerri Green, Martha Plimpton, and Jonathan Ke Quan
- IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
The Goonies is a cult classic adventure-comedy film directed by Richard Donner.
The story follows a group of misfit friends who embark on a treasure hunt to save their homes from being demolished.
The film’s plot revolves around a group of kids known as the Goonies, who are about to lose their homes due to a property development project.
Desperate to save their homes, they embark on a treasure hunt to find the long-lost fortune of the infamous pirate, One-Eyed Willy.
Along the way, they encounter numerous obstacles, including the villainous Fratellis, a family of criminals searching for the treasure. The Goonies is one of the best movies like Indiana Jones.
With its lovable characters, exciting action sequences, and heartwarming themes, The Goonies has become a staple of 80s pop culture.
It’s a movie that appeals to kids and adults, and its enduring popularity has even inspired a sequel currently in development.
In short, The Goonies is a timeless classic that has captured the hearts of generations of moviegoers.
Its themes of friendship, loyalty, and adventure resonate with audiences even today.
3. Romancing the Stone (1984)
- Director: Robert Zemeckis
- Cast: Kathleen Turner, Michael Douglas, Danny DeVito, Zack Norman, Alfonso Arau, Manuel Ojeda, and Holland Taylor
- IMDb Rating: 6.9/10
Romancing the Stone is a classic adventure film about Joan Wilder, a successful romance novelist.
She embarks on a journey to Colombia to save her sister, who has been kidnapped.
Along the way, Joan meets Jack Colton, a rugged and charming soldier of fortune, and together they embark on a dangerous adventure filled with treacherous obstacles. This film is one of the best movies like Indiana Jones.
As Joan and Jack navigate the rugged terrain of the Colombian jungle, they must fight off dangerous mercenaries, avoid treacherous traps, and overcome their demons.
Overall, Romancing the Stone is an action-packed adventure filled with romance, humor, and heart.
It’s a must-watch for anyone who loves a good adventure story or a classic romance film.
4. National Treasure (2004)
- Director: Jon Turteltaub
- Cast: Nicolas Cage, Diane Kruger, Justin Bartha, Sean Bean, Jon Voight, Harvey Keitel, and Christopher Plummer.
- IMDb Rating: 6.8/10
National Treasure is an American adventure film that follows the story of Benjamin Gates, a historian and treasure hunter.
He embarks on a journey to find a legendary treasure hidden by the Founding Fathers of the United States.
The film takes the audience on a thrilling ride as Gates and his team decipher clues and solve puzzles to find the treasure before a rival team led by Sean Bean’s character does.
They face dangerous obstacles and encounters, making for an exhilarating adventure.
National Treasure has gained a loyal fanbase over the years due to its unique concept, engaging plot, and talented cast. National Treasure is one of the best movies like Indiana Jones.
Overall, this movie is a must-watch for fans of adventure and action movies and those interested in American history and it’s founding fathers.
It’s exciting plot and talented cast make it a timeless classic that continues to entertain audiences today.
5. The Mummy (1999)
- Director: Stephen Sommers
- Cast: Brendan Fraser, Rachel Weisz, Arnold Vosloo, John Hannah, Oded Fehr, and Patricia Velásquez.
- IMDb Rating: 7/10
The Mummy is an American action-adventure film that follows the story of an archaeologist named Rick O’Connell, played by Brendan Fraser. He discovered an ancient tomb in the Egyptian desert.
Along with his team, including Evelyn Carnahan, played by Rachel Weisz, and her brother Jonathan, they awaken a mummy named Imhotep, played by Arnold Vosloo, who seeks to restore his power and rule the world.
As Imhotep begins to wreak havoc, O’Connell and his team must stop him by killing him for good.
They face dangerous obstacles and supernatural creatures, making for a thrilling adventure.
The film’s success led to two sequels, The Mummy Returns, The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor, and a prequel spin-off film titled The Scorpion King. The Mummy is one of the best movies like Indiana Jones.
Overall, The Mummy is a must-watch for fans of action-adventure films, with its engaging plot, talented cast, and impressive special effects.
Its enduring popularity has made it a timeless classic that continues to entertain audiences today.
6. Tomb Raider (2018)
- Director: Roar Uthaug
- Cast: Alicia Vikander, Dominic West, Walton Goggins, Daniel Wu, Kristin Scott Thomas, and Hannah John-Kamen
- IMDb Rating: 6.3/10
Tomb Raider is an action-adventure film that follows the story of Lara Croft, a young woman who sets out on a perilous journey to solve the mystery of her father’s disappearance.
Her journey takes her to a remote island off the coast of Japan, where she discovers a hidden tomb with ancient secrets and a dangerous organization known as Trinity. Tomb Raider is one of the best movies like Indiana Jones.
As Lara explores the island, she must fight off Trinity’s forces and solve puzzles to uncover the tomb’s secrets.
She discovers clues about her father’s disappearance and must confront her fears and limitations to survive.
The film’s impressive action sequences, special effects, and talented cast, including Dominic West and Walton Goggins, make it a must-watch for fans of action-adventure films.
Its exciting plot and stunning visuals make it an exciting and entertaining film that will captivate audiences.
7. Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981)
- Director: Steven Spielberg
- Cast: Marion Ravenwood, Harrison Ford, Paul Freeman, John Rhys-Davies, Denholm Elliott, and Ronald Lacey
- IMDb Rating: 8.4/10
Raiders of the Lost Ark is a 1981 American action-adventure film that follows the story of Indiana Jones.
He is an archaeologist hired by the US government to find the Ark of the Covenant before the Nazis can obtain it.
Jones sets out on a dangerous mission to find the Ark, which is believed to hold immense power and could give the Nazis an unbeatable advantage in the war. This film is one of the best movies like Indiana Jones.
As Jones travels the world to find the Ark, he encounters numerous obstacles and must use his skills to overcome them.
He also reunites with his ex-girlfriend, Marion Ravenwood, who helps him on his mission.
Overall, Raiders of the Lost Ark is a timeless classic that continues entertaining audiences with its thrilling action sequences, engaging plot, and talented cast.
8. Pirates of the Caribbean (2003)
- Director: Gore Verbinski
- Cast: Johnny Depp, Orlando Bloom, Geoffrey Rush, Jack Davenport, Jonathan Pryce, and Lee Arenberg
- IMDb Rating: 8/10
Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl is an American adventure fantasy film directed by Gore Verbinski.
The film follows the story of Captain Jack Sparrow as he teams up with Will Turner to rescue Elizabeth Swann, who has been kidnapped by the infamous pirate, Barbossa, played by Geoffrey Rush.
Along the way, they must battle supernatural forces and overcome the curse of the Black Pearl, which turns its crew into undead skeletons. This film is one of the best movies like Indiana Jones.
Overall, Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl is a classic adventure film that will entertain audiences of all ages.
Its talented cast, engaging plot, and impressive special effects make it a must-watch for genre fans.
9. The Adventure of Tintin (2011)
- Director: Steven Spielberg
- Cast: Jamie Bell, Andy Serkis, Daniel Craig, Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, and Toby Jones
- IMDb Rating: 7.3/10
The Adventures of Tintin is a 2011 animated action-adventure film directed by Steven Spielberg.
The film is based on the popular comic book series of the same name by Belgian cartoonist Hergé.
The film follows the adventures of Tintin, a young reporter voiced by Jamie Bell, as he sets out to uncover the mystery behind a lost treasure.
Along with his trusty dog, Snowy, and the drunken Captain Haddock, Tintin must navigate dangerous obstacles and outsmart the villainous Ivanovich Sakharine.
The film was praised for its stunning animation, thrilling action sequences, and talented voice cast.
It grossed over $373 million worldwide and received positive reviews from critics, who praised its faithful adaptation of the source material.
Despite its success, a sequel has yet to be officially announced, although Spielberg and the film’s producers have expressed interest in continuing the series. This film is one of the best movies like Indiana Jones.
Overall, The Adventures of Tintin is a fun and exciting adventure film that will entertain fans of the original comic book series and newcomers to the world of Tintin.
Its talented voice cast, impressive animation, and engaging plot make it a must-watch for fans of the action-adventure genre.
10. The Mask of Zorro (1998)
- Director: Martin Campbell
- Cast: Antonio Banderas, Anthony Hopkins, Elena Montero, Stuart Wilson, Matt Letscher, and Tony Amendola
- IMDb Rating: 6.7/10
The Mask of Zorro is an American swashbuckler film that tells a story of a young thief who becomes the legendary hero Zorro.
The film takes place in 19th-century California and follows Murrieta as he seeks revenge against the corrupt Spanish governor, Rafael Montero, played by Stuart Wilson.
Along the way, Murrieta trains under the original Zorro and falls in love with his daughter.
The film’s success led to a sequel, The Legend of Zorro, released in 2005.
Despite mixed reviews, the film was also a box-office success. This film is one of the best movies like Indiana Jones.
Overall, The Mask of Zorro is a fun and exciting adventure film that continues entertaining audiences with its memorable characters and thrilling action.
Its enduring popularity is a testament to its status as a beloved classic of the swashbuckler genre.
11. The Treasure of the Sierra Madre (1948)
- Director: John Huston
- Cast: Humphrey Bogart, Tim Holt, Walter Huston, Bruce Bennett, Barton MacLane, and Alfonso Bedoya
- IMDb Rating: 8.2/10
The Treasure of the Sierra Madre is a 1948 American adventure film that tells Humphrey Bogart, a down-on-his-luck American in Tampico, Mexico, who teams up with two other men to search for gold in the mountains.
Dobbs and fellow Americans Bob Curtin and Howard venture into the rugged and dangerous Sierra Madre mountains in search of their fortune.
Along the way, they face numerous challenges, including bandits, illness, and each other’s greed.
As they become more successful, their greed and mistrust of each other escalate, leading to a dramatic conclusion. This film is one of the best movies like Indiana Jones.
Overall, The Treasure of the Sierra Madre is a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences with its thrilling adventure and compelling characters.
Its enduring popularity is a testament to its status as a beloved masterpiece of American cinema.
12. The Lost City of Z (2016)
- Director: James Gray
- Cast: Charlie Hunnam, Robert Pattinson, Sienna Miller, Tom Holland, Edward Ashley, and Angus Macfadyen
- IMDb Rating: 6.6/10
The Lost City of Z is a 2016 American biographical adventure drama film based on the book of the same name by David Grann.
The film follows the true story of Percy Fawcett, a British explorer obsessed with finding a lost civilization in the Amazon jungle.
Fawcett, played by Charlie Hunnam, embarks on several expeditions to find the lost city, accompanied by his friend and fellow explorer, Henry Costin.
Along the way, they encounter various obstacles, including disease, hostile indigenous tribes, and a lack of funding.
Despite these challenges, Fawcett remains determined to find the lost city and prove its existence to the world. The film explores obsession, ambition, and the price of discovery.
Overall, the film is a thrilling adventure that offers a unique glimpse into the world of exploration and discovery. This film is one of the best movies like Indiana Jones.
