Pictures and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures, Tomb Raider is the story that will set a young and resolute Lara Croft on a path toward becoming a global hero. The film stars Oscar winner Alicia Vikander (Ex Machina, The Danish Girl) in the lead role, under the direction of Roar Uthaug (The Wave), with Oscar-winner Graham King (The Departed) producing under his GK Films banner. The film¹s production begins on the heels of the 20th anniversary of the wildly popular videogame franchise from Square Enix, Crystal Dynamics and Eidos Montreal.
“Tomb Raider” (2018) is an action-adventure film that reboots the beloved video game franchise, following the journey of a young and determined Lara Croft, played by Alicia Vikander. The film begins by introducing Lara as a fiercely independent 21-year-old living in London. Struggling to come to terms with her father’s disappearance seven years prior, she juggles her life as a bike courier and her studies while refusing to accept her inheritance.
When Lara discovers clues left by her father, Richard Croft, she becomes intrigued by his research into the mythical Queen Himiko, who was believed to possess dark powers. Her quest leads her to a remote island off the coast of Japan, where her father had been searching for Himiko’s tomb. Despite warnings and threats from a shadowy organization known as Trinity, Lara embarks on a dangerous journey to uncover the truth about her father and the legendary queen.
Upon reaching the island, Lara encounters various challenges, including treacherous landscapes, booby traps, and the ruthless mercenaries of Trinity, led by the formidable Mathias Vogel (played by Walton Goggins). Throughout her adventure, Lara demonstrates resilience and resourcefulness, facing life-or-death situations that test her physical and mental limits. She also teams up with Lu Ren (Daniel Wu), a shipwrecked sailor whose own father was lost while searching for Himiko.
The film emphasizes Lara’s transformation from a naive young woman into a skilled and tenacious survivor. As she delves deeper into the mysteries of the island, she confronts her father’s legacy and learns about sacrifice and courage. The action sequences are intense, featuring elaborate tomb explorations, thrilling escapes, and breathtaking stunts that capture the essence of the video game experience.
In the climactic moments, Lara discovers the tomb of Queen Himiko, where she must confront both the supernatural elements tied to the queen’s legend and the ruthless intentions of Trinity. The film balances high-stakes action with emotional depth, showcasing Lara’s growth and determination.
“Tomb Raider” (2018) effectively reinvents the franchise for a new generation, combining thrilling adventure with a strong character-driven narrative. It explores themes of self-discovery, bravery, and the bond between parent and child. With its dynamic performances, especially by Vikander, and visually stunning sequences, the film offers an engaging cinematic experience that honors the spirit of the original games while establishing Lara Croft as a modern action hero.
