[FLY] Guys: How to Be ‘Indy’

by Brandi Herrera Pfrehm
August 25, 2008

“Da da da DA, da da DA…da da da DA, da da da da DA!”

The Indiana Jones theme has become nearly as iconic as the film’s protagonist himself. At the sound of the lively Raider’s March cadence, one can’t help but conjure images of Harrison Ford wearing his signature khaki togs, leather bomber, and fedora. Indeed, for most of us weaned on a healthy diet of Spielberg action films, the song and emblematic trappings have become synonymous with archeological quests, fortune-seeking perils and misadventure.

What does it take then—beyond dusty safari gear and a theme song—to inhabit the spirit of Indy? We know every [FLY] Guy secretly wants some answers. We’re here to give them. Take notes.

ATTITUDE: Superheros-schmeros. What makes Indy so lovable? He’s the real-deal! Indy posses just the right amount of fierce attitude, courage and wit to go from bumbling academic to kick-butt action star in a flash. And when the occasion arises, he’s right there to fight any nefarious villain thrown his way. Battles from atop moving vehicles are also a nice action-hero touch. Add them in when you can.

CLOTHING/PROPS: Admit it; all you really care about is the bad-ass gear. It’s as simple as this: if you want to look like Indy, you need five things (khaki safari pants/shirt, flight jacket, fedora and bullwhip). Lucky for you, the beaver-felt fedoras used in The Crystal Skull were made right here in Mississippi by Adventurebilt Hat Co. $400 (+ shipping) will get you a carbon copy of Indy’s most prized possession. Side note: we recommend practicing with a bullwhip for a spell before embarking on your own adventures. Even Harrison Ford took six months to become reacquainted with the prop before filming the latest Indy installment.

SIDE KICK: If you want to appear as cool and confident as Indy, you best have a fearless female by your side. Raiders star Marion Ravenwood was able to derail a villain just as well as the guys, and with style. Twenty years later, she kicked more bootie than ever before, proving that leading ladies only get better with time. Be forewarned: squeamish beauties need not apply. Willy Scott’s constant whining and I-broke-another-nail prissiness was one of the chief reasons The Temple of Doom failed miserably. In a pinch: plucky children are a great alternative. Short Round; need we say more?

ARCH NEMESIS: Indy would be nothing more than a pedantic professor if it weren’t for his adversaries (think: Rene Belloq, Mola Ram, Toht, Irina Spalko). Look, there are evil people in the world that will try to ruin your fun and adventure. Do what Indy would [FLY] Guys; kick some arch nemesis ass!