On September 4, 1981, the iconic film "Raiders of the Lost Ark" was released in the United Kingdom. Directed by Steven Spielberg and produced by George Lucas, this action-adventure film introduced the world to the now-legendary character of Indiana Jones, portrayed by Harrison Ford.

The film follows the adventurous archaeologist as he battles Nazis in a thrilling race to recover the long-lost Ark of the Covenant, believed to contain the Ten Commandments. With its perfect blend of action, humor, and suspense, "Raiders of the Lost Ark" redefined the adventure genre and set a new standard for Hollywood blockbusters.

The film's success led to three sequels: "Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom" (1984), "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade" (1989), and "Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull" (2008). The franchise also expanded to include television series, video games, comic books, and theme park attractions.

"Raiders of the Lost Ark" was a massive critical and commercial success. It was nominated for eight Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and won four (Best Art Direction, Best Film Editing, Best Sound, and Best Visual Effects). The film also grossed nearly $390 million worldwide, making it the highest-grossing film of 1981.

The film's impact on popular culture is immeasurable. Indiana Jones became a household name and a symbol of adventure, with his iconic fedora, leather jacket, and bullwhip. The film's thrilling action sequences, such as the boulder chase and the face-melting climax, have been endlessly referenced and parodied in the decades since its release.

Today, "Raiders of the Lost Ark" is considered one of the greatest films ever made and a cornerstone of modern cinema. Its release on September 4, 1981, marked the beginning of a global phenomenon that continues to captivate audiences to this day.