Tom Selleck's '80s Adventure Movie Is A Fun Indiana Jones Rip-Off
Tom Selleck's journey to becoming a household name is a fascinating one, filled with near misses and unexpected turns. While he famously almost landed the role of Indiana Jones, the star of 'Magnum, P.I.' ended up starring in a movie that, while not quite reaching the iconic status of the original, is a fun and intriguing adventure in its own right. 'High Road to China' is a movie that, despite its critics, offers a unique take on the adventure genre and provides a glimpse into what could have been if Selleck had taken on the role of Henry Jones Jr.
A Different Take on Adventure
The 1983 film 'High Road to China' is set in the 1920s and loosely based on Jon Cleary's novel of the same name. It follows the story of Patrick O'Malley, a biplane pilot and World War I veteran played by Selleck. O'Malley is hired by heiress Eve Tozer to find her missing father, who is believed to be in China. What makes this movie stand out is its divergence from the Indiana Jones formula. Selleck's character doesn't engage in the same kind of action-packed sequences as Harrison Ford's Indy, instead opting for a more subtle approach to adventure.
A Unique Hero
Patrick O'Malley is a unique hero, a drunk who relies more on his wits and flying skills than brute force. This makes him a refreshing change from the typical action hero, and it's a testament to Selleck's ability to bring depth and charm to the role. While he may not have the same level of physical prowess as Indy, O'Malley is a compelling character in his own right, and it's easy to see why Selleck was proud of his performance.
A Fun Ride
Despite the behind-the-scenes strife and the mixed reviews it received at the time, 'High Road to China' is a fun movie to watch. It's a light-hearted adventure that offers a different perspective on the genre, and it's a great example of how Hollywood was experimenting with the Indiana Jones formula in the '80s. While it may not have reached the same level of iconic status as 'Raiders of the Lost Ark,' it's a movie that holds up well today, and it's a testament to Selleck's ability to bring a unique and engaging character to the screen.
A What-If Scenario
It's hard not to wonder what could have been if Selleck had taken on the role of Indiana Jones. He certainly had the charisma and the rugged charm to pull it off, and it's easy to see why he was considered for the part. But in the end, 'High Road to China' is a movie that stands on its own, and it's a fun and intriguing adventure that deserves to be remembered in its own right. So, while it may not have reached the same level of fame as 'Raiders,' it's a movie that is well worth watching, and it's a testament to the versatility and talent of Tom Selleck.
In my opinion, 'High Road to China' is a hidden gem of the '80s adventure genre. It may not have received the same level of acclaim as 'Raiders,' but it's a movie that offers a unique and engaging take on the adventure formula. So, if you're a fan of the genre, or if you're just looking for a fun and light-hearted movie to watch, 'High Road to China' is definitely worth checking out.
