Well, it has been pointed out that Indy was entirely ineffectual, really. Ironies.I still heart Raiders.
Though it sorta blew my mind when someone pointed out that the end of the movie still would've happen even if Indy wasn't involved in anyway. Which is sorta funny.
I wouldn't say he's ineffectual in what he DOES. He's good at what he does. But, ultimately, what he does doesn't affect the end. They still take it to the island, but its God that kills everyone.
But the ending, having the hero tied up for the climax, never appealed to me, even as a kid. The real climax is the truck chase. The best chase ever filmed.
Meh. It doesn't bother me. It's visually really interesting and nicely cathartic.