007 and Indiana Jones

James Bond and Indiana Jones: two iconic movie figures.  But, did you know they are linked in two remarkable ways?

One of movie director Steven Spielberg’s earliest ambitions was to one day direct a James Bond: 007 film. 

When he told his good friend, fellow director, George Lucas about it George told him he had an even better character he created whose films he could direct.

That character was Indiana Jones.

The other connection each film has is that Sean Connery, the original film James Bond would play Indiana Jones' father in The Last Crusade.

When George and Steven were ironing out the details of the film Steven suggested the only person who possibly be Indiana Jones father would have to be the original James Bond-thus Connery landed the role.

Back in the 1990s Galoob Toys made a name for itself with its MicroMachines line of toys.

Originally consisting of small plastic cars about one-third the size of HotWheels and Matchbox die cast vehicles, the MicroMachines line became so popular that it soon expanded to other vehicles.

At its height of its popularity the company produced a number of vehicles and clever play sets of such properties as Star Wars, Alien, Predator, James Bond, Indiana Jones and various TV properties and more.

The company even produced miniature train sets, boats and other forms of transportation.

Unfortunately the company closed shop amidst rumors of mismanagement, financial woes and other questionable business practices.

In 1995 Galoob produced both an Indiana Jones and a James Bond: 007 MicroMachines figures and vehicles sets.

The miniatures are housed in oversize boxes with clear front panels.

Both the miniature vehicles and figures are held in place by wire or snuggly secured into form-fitting alcoves.

Although diminutive the vehicles and figures feature amazing details, first-rate paint application and wheels, propeller and other vehicle parts that actually move!

The boxes showcases art depicting images of either Indiana Jones or James Bond logos or figures.

The Indiana Jones collection featured 10 vehicles from Indy’s first three films.

From Raiders come a Pan Am Clipper Plane, a Pontoon Bi-Plane, a German a Staff Car and a Flying Wing.

A Mine Car with Indy and Willy figures, a Ford Trimotor Plane and a Duesenberg Car are included from Temple Of Doom and The Last Crusade vehicles are a German Tank, a Zeppelin with Bi-Plane and a Wooden Motor Boat.

A bonus Indiana Jones figure with whip is also included.

The James Bond 007 set consists of nine vehicles and six figures.

From Goldfinger there are a Piper Stunt Plane, a ‘37 Rolls Royce Phantom 337, an Aston Martin DB5 and Oddjob and Goldfinger figures.

The Spy Who Loved me includes James Bond, Major Anya Amasova, a Huey Helicopter, a Motorcycle with Sidecar/Missiles and a Lotus Espirit/Submarine.

The Space Shuttle Moonraker, an Ultra Speed Boat with Hang Glider, a Hispano Suiza and Jaws and Drax figures represent Moonraker.

It’s remarkable that such small vehicles and figures are so excellently crafted, painted and feature actual moving parts.

No slop-over paint edges, plastic flashing or uneven or jagged edges are present.

I absolutely love each set but the Indiana Jones set holds a special place in my heart.

At the tender age of nine years old my son spent his own money to buy me it for Christmas.  It’s a prized possession and when my time comes I hope my son retrieves it and passes it on to his children.

But even more so I hope when he sees it after I’m gone he’ll remember how much I loved him and it will bring a smile to his face.