George Lucas Gets All 21st-Century With Indy IV

Hollywood has a lot to learn about doing business on the web from George Lucas. First, he goes all 21st century by supplying footage for Star Wars mash ups, and now he's doing casting announcements directly from his IndianaJones.com. According to the site, Cate Blanchett, Ray Winstone and John Hurt are all joining Harrison Ford and Shia LeBeouf in Indy IV (directed by Steven Spielberg; Lucas is producing), which is set to open on May 22, 2008. But the bad news is that 76-year-old Sean Connery won't be making a return as Indy's father. From the release:

While the man with the hat is back, this time he's not bringing his Dad. Sean Connery, who retired from acting in 2005, said: "I get asked the question so often, I thought it best to make an announcement. I thought long and hard about it and if anything could have pulled me out of retirement it would have been an Indiana Jones film. I love working with Steven and George, and it goes without saying that it is an honor to have Harrison as my son. But in the end, retirement is just too damned much fun. I, do however, have one bit of advice for Junior: Demand that the critters be digital, the cliffs be low, and for goodness sake keep that whip by your side at all times in case you need to escape from the stunt coordinator! This is a remarkable cast, and I can only say, 'Break a leg, everyone.' I'll see you on May 22, 2008, at the theater!"