After a six-year hiatus since the last Tomb Raider movie and three years post the expiration of film rights, Alicia Vikander is unable to reprise her role as Lara Croft. However, Netflix is set to revive Tomb Raider in animated form with “Tomb Raider: The Legend Of Lara Croft” slated for release this October.
Voiced by Hayley Atwell, who fans believe should portray Croft in a live-action adaptation, the series serves as a direct sequel to the video game’s Survivor Trilogy. The trilogy, consisting of 2013’s Tomb Raider and its subsequent installments, Rise Of The Tomb Raider in 2015 and Shadow Of The Tomb Raider in 2018, successfully rebooted the character of Lara Croft. These games marked a significant departure from the traditional objectified portrayal of Croft, opting for a more realistic and less sexualized depiction. The reboot garnered immense popularity among fans and critics alike, with high sales figures and positive reviews, even receiving praise from Conan O’Brien in a segment of “Clueless Gamer.”
“The Legend Of Lara Croft” introduces a fresh take on the character, showcasing an anime-inspired Lara Croft reminiscent of characters from “The Legend Of Korra.” The series is helmed by Tasha Huo, known for her work on Netflix’s “The Witcher: Blood Origin,” lending credibility to the animation’s potential success. This iteration of Tomb Raider promises to delve into Lara Croft’s trauma, offering a deeper exploration of her character and motivations, providing a more nuanced portrayal of the iconic heroine.
Netflix’s decision to venture into animation with dormant properties has proven successful, with the announcement of the upcoming Terminator animated series, “Terminator Zero,” following a similar trend. The streaming platform’s strategic move to breathe new life into established franchises through animation demonstrates a commitment to revitalizing beloved characters and narratives for a modern audience.
“Tomb Raider: The Legend Of Lara Croft” is set to premiere on Netflix on October 10, offering fans a fresh and innovative take on the iconic character and her adventures. The animated series promises to captivate audiences with its unique storytelling and visual style, bringing Lara Croft back to the forefront of entertainment in a new and exciting format.
