
The Tomb Raider franchise, inspired by the iconic video game series, has long been a staple of action-adventure cinema. With the 2018 reboot starring Alicia Vikander as Lara Croft, the series took a darker, more grounded approach, focusing on Lara’s origins and her transformation into the fearless adventurer we know. But the question on everyone’s mind is: Will there be another Tomb Raider movie? And if so, how will it shape the future of adventure films?
The Current State of the Tomb Raider Franchise
The 2018 film, Tomb Raider, was a modest success, grossing over $274 million worldwide. While it didn’t break box office records, it was praised for its fresh take on the character and its commitment to a more realistic portrayal of Lara Croft. However, the sequel, initially slated for release in 2021, faced numerous delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic and other production challenges. As of now, the project is in development, but details remain scarce.
The Potential for a Sequel
Given the enduring popularity of the Tomb Raider games and the character of Lara Croft, a sequel seems almost inevitable. The 2018 film ended on a cliffhanger, with Lara discovering her father’s secret organization, Trinity, and vowing to continue his work. This sets the stage for a sequel that could delve deeper into the mysteries of the Croft family and explore more exotic locations.
Moreover, the success of other female-led action films, such as Wonder Woman and Captain Marvel, has proven that there is a strong appetite for strong, complex female protagonists. Lara Croft, with her intelligence, resourcefulness, and physical prowess, is perfectly positioned to capitalize on this trend.
How a New Tomb Raider Movie Could Redefine Adventure Cinema
If a new Tomb Raider movie is greenlit, it has the potential to redefine the adventure genre in several ways:
-
Diverse Storytelling: The Tomb Raider games are known for their rich narratives and intricate puzzles. A new movie could take inspiration from the games’ storytelling techniques, offering a more immersive and intellectually stimulating experience for audiences.
-
Innovative Action Sequences: The 2018 film featured several thrilling action sequences, but a sequel could push the boundaries even further. With advances in CGI and practical effects, the filmmakers could create even more breathtaking set pieces, from high-altitude climbs to underwater explorations.
-
Exploration of New Themes: The Tomb Raider franchise has always been about exploration, both physical and emotional. A new movie could delve into themes of identity, legacy, and the ethical implications of archaeological discovery, adding depth to the action-packed narrative.
-
Global Appeal: The Tomb Raider games are set in various locations around the world, from the jungles of South America to the deserts of Egypt. A new movie could continue this tradition, showcasing diverse cultures and landscapes, and appealing to a global audience.
Challenges Facing the Franchise
Despite its potential, the Tomb Raider franchise faces several challenges. The 2018 film, while well-received, didn’t achieve the same level of success as other action-adventure films. Additionally, the competition in the genre is fierce, with franchises like Indiana Jones and Uncharted vying for audience attention.
Moreover, the character of Lara Croft has evolved significantly since her debut in the 1990s. The new movie will need to strike a balance between honoring the character’s legacy and appealing to modern audiences who expect more nuanced and realistic portrayals of female characters.
Conclusion
The question of whether there will be another Tomb Raider movie is still up in the air, but the potential for a sequel is undeniable. With the right creative team and a fresh approach, a new Tomb Raider film could not only continue the story of Lara Croft but also redefine the adventure genre for a new generation of moviegoers.
Related Q&A
Q: Who is likely to play Lara Croft in the next Tomb Raider movie? A: Alicia Vikander is expected to reprise her role as Lara Croft, but no official confirmation has been made.
Q: What locations might be featured in the next Tomb Raider movie? A: Based on the games, potential locations could include the jungles of South America, the deserts of Egypt, or the mountains of Siberia.
Q: Will the next Tomb Raider movie be connected to the video games? A: While the 2018 film was loosely based on the 2013 reboot of the game series, the next movie could take inspiration from other games in the franchise, such as Rise of the Tomb Raider or Shadow of the Tomb Raider.
Q: When can we expect the next Tomb Raider movie to be released? A: As of now, there is no official release date, but production is expected to begin in the near future.