Indy IV is a MUST SEE for anyone who loved the other three. But, it is a MUST AVOID if you haven't seen the other ones.
Raiders is probably my most favorite movie of all time. So, of course I had to see the new one. I really enjoyed it, but I think it has to be put into context. The first three movies were throwbacks to the classic adventure movies of the 1930's. This one is a throwback to the "red scare / alien invasion" movies of the 1950's. With that, the movie is almost perfect. Without the context, the movie just seems out of place.
I agree with Marc that Karen Allen is wasted, but so is the character of Mutt Williams.
Also, there were some subtle flaws in the movie that bother me.
[spoiler]At the end, the minister uses the phrase "with the joining of hands" and Marion is holding her bouquet and Indy has his clasped behind him. Also, if Mutt's real name is Henry Jones III, why did he choose "Mutt Williams" and be surprised that Dr. Henry Jones, Jr. is his father?[/spoiler]
Scott Hajek
[i]"A beer right now would sound good, but I'd rather drink one than listen to it."[/i]