The Real Story

S01E03 Indiana Jones

Who was the true Indiana Jones? His creators, George Lucas and Steven Spielberg, reveal that the iconic whip-wielding adventurer was influenced by the explorers seen in 1930s and 40s film serials. In turn, many of those serial writers drew inspiration from the genuine exploits of Roy Chapman Andrews. Additionally, the German academic and Grail-seeker, Otto Rahn, also contributed to the Indy mythos. Both figures capture the essence of Indiana Jones, having led lives filled with academic pursuit, exploration, and peril.