Behind the Scenes: Brainstorming Raiders of the Lost Ark

Brainstorming sessions often have mixed results; but you have to at least appreciate the process of communal stream of conciousness… especially when the people in the room are named Spielberg, Lucas and Kasdan.

In a 125-page transcript from one such brainstorm in 1978, the three filmmakers throw it all at the wall in a way every bit as entertaining as the end result: a little film called “Raiders of the Lost Ark”.

Lucas — What can he chase them with? What if he jumps on a camel?

Spielberg — I love it. It’s a great idea. There’s never been a camel chase before.

Kasdan — Is this camel going to chase a car?

Spielberg — You know how fast a camel can run? Not only that, he can jump over vegetable carts and things. It could be a funny chase that ends in tragedy. You’re laughing your head off and suddenly, “My God, she’s dead.”

Lucas— We’ve added another million dollars.

Spielberg — Not really. How much trouble can a camel be?

[Thanks Rob]