Are you a fan of the iconic Indiana Jones franchise? Do you love the thrill of globe-trotting adventures, ancient artifacts, daring escapes, and witty one-liners? Well, you’re in luck! While nothing can quite match the magic of everyone’s favorite fedora-wearing archaeologist, there are plenty of other movies out there that capture a similar spirit of excitement and exploration.
I’ve rounded up 18 of the best movies like Indiana Jones that are sure to scratch that itch for perilous quests and swashbuckling heroics. So grab your popcorn, strap on your seatbelt, and get ready for an action-packed ride through jungles, deserts, and lost cities as we count down the top Indiana Jones-esque adventures to add to your must-watch list.
18. Romancing the Stone (1984)
Kicking off our list is the charming romantic adventure Romancing the Stone. Released just a few years after Raiders of the Lost Ark took the world by storm, this film follows romance novelist Joan Wilder (the fabulous Kathleen Turner) as she jets off to Colombia to ransom her kidnapped sister. Along the way, she teams up with a roguish bird exporter named Jack Colton (Michael Douglas at his most charismatic) to track down a legendary treasure.
Romancing the Stone has all the ingredients of a classic Indiana Jones-style caper – a feisty heroine, a dashing leading man, lush jungle locales, nefarious villains, and a race for fortune and glory. While it leans more into the rom-com elements, it still delivers plenty of action, humor, and spark to make it a worthy entry in the adventure genre. Plus, who can resist that sizzling chemistry between Turner and Douglas?
17. Sahara (2005)
Fans of Indiana Jones’ desert escapades in Raiders of the Lost Ark should enjoy the modern-day treasure hunt of Sahara. Matthew McConaughey stars as explorer Dirk Pitt, who sets out to find a long-lost Civil War battleship in the sands of West Africa. Along with his wisecracking sidekick Al (Steve Zahn), Dirk crosses paths with a beautiful WHO doctor (Penélope Cruz) and a ruthless dictator as he races to solve the mystery.
While Sahara may not have the same iconic status as Indy’s adventures, it’s still a fun, breezy romp with plenty of humor, action, and attractive leads. The African locations are stunning, and the central mystery is engaging enough to keep you invested. If you’re looking for a lighthearted desert quest, then Sahara is worth a watch.
16. The Extraordinary Adventures of Adèle Blanc-Sec (2010)
For a quirkier take on the Indiana Jones formula, check out Luc Besson’s The Extraordinary Adventures of Adèle Blanc-Sec. Based on a popular French comic book series, the film follows the titular heroine (Louise Bourgoin), a globe-trotting novelist in early 20th century Paris who gets mixed up in all sorts of supernatural shenanigans, from reanimated mummies to rampaging pterodactyls.
With its colorful visual style, offbeat humor, and imaginative set pieces, Adèle Blanc-Sec is a delightful oddity that should appeal to fans of Indiana Jones’ more fantastical adventures like Temple of Doom. Bourgoin makes for a charming and capable protagonist, and the film’s Belle Époque setting gives it a unique flavor. It may be a bit too weird for some tastes, but adventurous viewers will find much to enjoy.
15. The Rocketeer (1991)
Another pulp-inspired adventure with a period setting, The Rocketeer stars Billy Campbell as Cliff Secord, a stunt pilot in 1938 Los Angeles who discovers a stolen rocket pack. When he uses it to become a masked hero, Cliff is pursued by mobsters, Nazis, and the FBI, all while trying to win the heart of his actress girlfriend (Jennifer Connelly).
Directed by Joe Johnston (who would later helm Captain America: The First Avenger), The Rocketeer is a loving homage to the serials and adventure films of the 1930s and ’40s. Campbell is an endearing lead, and the supporting cast includes memorable turns from Alan Arkin, Timothy Dalton, and Paul Sorvino. With its Art Deco design, soaring score, and exciting aerial sequences, the film captures the same sense of wonder and nostalgia as Raiders of the Lost Ark.
14. The Lost City of Z (2016)
For a more grounded and dramatic take on the adventure genre, seek out The Lost City of Z. Based on the true story of British explorer Percy Fawcett, the film stars Charlie Hunnam as Fawcett, who becomes obsessed with finding a legendary city in the Amazon rainforest. His quest spans decades and multiple expeditions, putting a strain on his family life and reputation.
The Lost City of Z is a slower burn than the Indiana Jones films, but it’s no less captivating. Hunnam gives a powerful performance as a man driven by his convictions, and the supporting cast (including Robert Pattinson and Sienna Miller) is excellent. The film’s themes of obsession, sacrifice, and the search for meaning give it a weight and substance that sets it apart from more action-oriented adventure movies.
13. The Man Who Would Be King (1975)
A classic of the adventure genre, The Man Who Would Be King stars Sean Connery and Michael Caine as two British soldiers who set out to become kings of a remote part of Afghanistan. Directed by John Huston and based on a story by Rudyard Kipling, the film follows the duo as they use their wits and charm to win over the locals and amass a fortune in gold.
While it predates Raiders of the Lost Ark by a few years, The Man Who Would Be King feels like a spiritual predecessor to the Indiana Jones series. Connery and Caine are at the top of their game, playing off each other with irresistible charisma and humor. The exotic locations, rousing score, and themes of greed and hubris all make for a timeless adventure that holds up beautifully.
12. The Mummy (1932)
The original Mummy movie from 1932 is a classic of both the adventure and horror genres. While it may not have the same action-packed thrills as the Indiana Jones films or the 1999 remake, it’s still a must-see for fans of archaeological adventures.
Boris Karloff stars as Imhotep, an ancient Egyptian priest who is accidentally revived by a team of archaeologists. Disguised as a modern-day Egyptian named Ardath Bey, Imhotep seeks to resurrect his lost love, leading to a series of mysterious deaths and supernatural events. The film’s moody atmosphere, iconic makeup effects, and Karloff’s haunting performance make it a landmark of early horror cinema.
11. The African Queen (1951)
A classic adventure romance directed by John Huston, The African Queen stars Humphrey Bogart and Katharine Hepburn as an unlikely pair thrown together in the midst of World War I. Bogart plays Charlie Allnut, a rough-around-the-edges riverboat captain, while Hepburn is Rose Sayer, a prim missionary. When German troops invade their small East African village, the two set off down the treacherous Ulanga River to escape, facing rapids, insects, and enemy gunboats along the way.
The African Queen is a different kind of adventure than the Indiana Jones movies, but it captures the same sense of excitement, danger, and romance. Bogart and Hepburn have incredible chemistry, and their banter is endlessly quotable. The African locations are stunning, and the film’s mix of humor, heart, and thrills make it a true classic of the genre.
10. Gunga Din (1939)
One of the most influential adventure films of all time, Gunga Din follows a trio of British soldiers (Cary Grant, Victor McLaglen, and Douglas Fairbanks Jr.) stationed in colonial India. When they discover a plot by a murderous cult, they set out to stop them with the help of their loyal water bearer, Gunga Din (Sam Jaffe).
Directed by George Stevens and loosely based on a Rudyard Kipling poem, Gunga Din is a rousing, action-packed epic that set the template for countless adventure movies to come, including the Indiana Jones series. The camaraderie between the leads is infectious, the stunts and set pieces are impressive for their time, and the film’s mix of humor, heroism, and colonial critique still resonates today.
9. North by Northwest (1959)
A classic thriller directed by Alfred Hitchcock, North by Northwest stars Cary Grant as Roger Thornhill, a suave ad executive who is mistaken for a government agent and pursued across the country by spies. Along the way, he falls for a mysterious woman (Eva Marie Saint) and uncovers a plot involving a secret microfilm.
While it may not seem like an obvious choice for a list of Indiana Jones-style adventures, North by Northwest shares a lot of DNA with Spielberg’s series. The globetrotting plot, witty banter, romantic subplot, and iconic set pieces (including the famous crop duster scene) all feel like precursors to Indy’s exploits. Grant’s performance is the epitome of debonair cool, and Hitchcock’s masterful direction keeps the suspense and excitement at a fever pitch.
8. The Mummy (1999)
You can’t talk about adventure movies without mentioning the late ’90s Mummy franchise. This updated version stars Brendan Fraser as Rick O’Connell, a wise-cracking American serving in the French Foreign Legion. He joins up with aspiring Egyptologist Evelyn Carnahan (Rachel Weisz) and her bumbling brother Jonathan (a scene-stealing John Hannah) on a quest to the lost city of Hamunaptra.
Of course, they accidentally awaken the cursed high priest Imhotep, who returns to life with a vengeance. Cue the plagues, swarms of flesh-eating scarabs, crumbling tombs, and mummy minions! The Mummy is a rollicking good time, with Fraser and Weisz proving to be an immensely likable duo as they battle the undead. The special effects and action set pieces still hold up today, making it a must-see for any fan of Indiana Jones and old-school adventure romps.
7. National Treasure (2004)
What if Indiana Jones was American and his archaeological quests led him to uncover the secrets of U.S. history? That’s pretty much the premise of National Treasure, which stars Nicolas Cage as Benjamin Franklin Gates, a historian and treasure hunter who believes there is a massive cache of riches hidden by the Founding Fathers.
The only way to find it? Steal the Declaration of Independence, of course! Aided by his tech-savvy sidekick Riley (Justin Bartha) and the beautiful Dr. Abigail Chase (Diane Kruger), Ben must solve a series of cryptic clues and stay one step ahead of his ruthless rival Mitch Wilkinson (Sean Bean).
While National Treasure requires a hefty suspension of disbelief, it’s hard not to get caught up in its Da Vinci Code-esque historical puzzles and energetic set pieces. Cage brings his signature manic intensity to the role of Ben Gates, and the supporting cast is clearly having a blast. If you enjoy the “treasure hunt” aspects of the Indiana Jones films, then this Nic Cage vehicle will be right up your alley.
6. The Adventures of Tintin (2011)
For a more family-friendly adventure in the vein of Indiana Jones, look no further than The Adventures of Tintin. Directed by Steven Spielberg himself, this animated film brings the beloved Belgian comic book character to life using state-of-the-art motion capture technology.
Tintin (Jamie Bell) is a young journalist who purchases a model ship that holds the key to a centuries-old mystery. Teaming up with the curmudgeonly Captain Haddock (Andy Serkis) and his loyal dog Snowy, Tintin embarks on a globe-spanning quest to find the lost treasure of the pirate Red Rackham. Along the way, they must outwit the dastardly Ivanovich Sakharine (Daniel Craig) and his goons.
With Spielberg at the helm, it’s no surprise that The Adventures of Tintin feels like a spiritual successor to Raiders of the Lost Ark. The motion-capture animation allows for some truly spectacular and imaginative action sequences, while the talented voice cast brings the iconic characters to life. It’s a delightful romp that will appeal to both kids and adults who love a good old-fashioned treasure hunt.
5. Uncharted (2022)
Video game adaptations don’t have the best track record, but Uncharted manages to buck the trend by delivering a fun, breezy adventure that feels like a love letter to the Indiana Jones films. Tom Holland stars as Nathan Drake, a bartender and petty thief who is recruited by seasoned treasure hunter Victor “Sully” Sullivan (Mark Wahlberg) to recover a fortune amassed by Ferdinand Magellan.
Of course, they’re not the only ones after the gold, with the ruthless Santiago Moncada (Antonio Banderas) and his hired guns hot on their trail. Cue the globetrotting escapades, death-defying stunts, and ancient puzzles that would make Indy proud.
Holland proves himself to be a capable action hero, channeling some of that Spider-Man agility into his portrayal of Drake. Wahlberg is clearly having a blast as Sully, and their buddy dynamic is one of the highlights of the film. While it may not reach the heights of the games that inspired it, Uncharted is still a solid popcorn flick that scratches that treasure-hunting itch.
4. The Goonies (1985)
Okay, so The Goonies may not have the exotic locales or ancient artifacts of an Indiana Jones movie, but it captures the same sense of adventure, camaraderie, and wonder. Directed by Richard Donner and produced by Steven Spielberg, this ’80s classic follows a group of misfit kids who discover a treasure map in the attic and set out to find the long-lost fortune of a 17th-century pirate.
Along the way, they must navigate booby traps, underground caverns, and a family of bumbling criminals known as the Fratellis. The young cast – including Sean Astin, Josh Brolin, Corey Feldman, and Martha Plimpton – have incredible chemistry and really sell the idea of a tight-knit group of friends on the adventure of a lifetime.
The Goonies is a nostalgic treat that still holds up today thanks to its endearing characters, quotable one-liners, and sense of childlike wonder. It may be smaller in scale than an Indiana Jones epic, but it has just as much heart and humor. Plus, who can forget that iconic “Truffle Shuffle” scene?
3. Jumanji (1995)
Another ’90s adventure classic, Jumanji stars the late, great Robin Williams as Alan Parrish, a man who has been trapped inside a magical board game for 26 years. When two kids (a young Kirsten Dunst and Bradley Pierce) find the game and start playing, they unwittingly release Alan – along with a host of deadly jungle creatures and hazards.
To finish the game and undo the chaos, Alan must team up with the kids and his childhood friend Sarah (Bonnie Hunt) to brave the perils of Jumanji, from stampeding rhinos to monsoons to man-eating plants. Williams is at his manic best here, bringing both humor and heart to the role of a man out of time.
Jumanji is a wild ride from start to finish, with groundbreaking (for the time) special effects and a clever premise that keeps you on the edge of your seat. It may not have the historical or archaeological elements of an Indiana Jones film, but it captures that same spirit of danger, excitement, and teamwork in the face of impossible odds.
2. The Mask of Zorro (1998)
A swashbuckling adventure with style and panache, The Mask of Zorro stars Antonio Banderas as Alejandro Murrieta, a bandit seeking revenge against the corrupt governor who killed his brother. He becomes the protégé of the original Zorro, Don Diego de la Vega (Anthony Hopkins), who trains him to take up the mantle of the legendary masked vigilante.
Alejandro must also contend with the governor’s villainous henchman, Captain Harrison Love (Matt Letscher), and his feelings for Diego’s feisty daughter Elena (Catherine Zeta-Jones in a star-making turn). The result is a thrilling mix of swordplay, romance, and political intrigue set against the backdrop of Old California.
The Mask of Zorro is a throwback to the classic Hollywood adventures of yesteryear, with Banderas and Zeta-Jones oozing charm and chemistry as the dashing hero and his spirited love interest. The action sequences are top-notch, from the opening jailbreak to the climactic duel in a gold mine, and the film never takes itself too seriously. If you’re a fan of the more lighthearted, romantic aspects of the Indiana Jones series, then this is the movie for you.
1. King Solomon’s Mines (1985)
Topping our list of the best movies like Indiana Jones is the 1985 adaptation of King Solomon’s Mines. Based on the classic novel by H. Rider Haggard, this film stars Richard Chamberlain as Allan Quatermain, a seasoned adventurer hired by the beautiful Jesse Huston (Sharon Stone) to find her father, who disappeared while searching for the legendary titular treasure.
Joined by the grizzled hunter Umbopo (Ken Gampu) and the cowardly Dogati (Herbert Lom), Quatermain and Jesse brave the perils of the African wilderness, from cannibals to booby-trapped caves to an epic underground temple. The film is a throwback to the classic adventure movies of the 1930s and ’40s, with Chamberlain making for a dashing, wisecracking hero in the vein of Indy himself.
King Solomon’s Mines is pure pulp adventure from start to finish, with breathtaking locations (shot on location in Zimbabwe), exciting action sequences, and a sense of wonder and discovery that captures the spirit of the Indiana Jones films. It may not have the same cultural impact or iconic status, but for sheer old-fashioned thrills and spills, you can’t go wrong with this hidden gem.
So there you have it – 18 of the best movies like Indiana Jones that will scratch that itch for danger, romance, and fortune and glory. From the jungles of Colombia to the deserts of Egypt to the caves of Oregon, these films offer a wide range of thrilling adventures that will transport you to another time and place.
Whether you’re a die-hard Indy fan looking for more of the same or just someone who appreciates a good old-fashioned quest, these movies are sure to satisfy. So grab your hat and your whip (or your compass and your treasure map), and get ready to embark on an epic journey from the comfort of your own home. The adventure awaits!
