Will Sophie Turner Take on the Role of Lara Croft in the New Tomb Raider Series?

The upcoming Prime Video series Tomb Raider will feature Sophie Turner, known for her role as Sansa Stark in Game of Thrones, as Lara Croft. This adaptation, created by Phoebe Waller-Bridge, marks a significant addition to the franchise based on the beloved video game character, previously portrayed by Angelina Jolie and Alicia Vikander. The show is set to begin production in January 2024.

Last updated: 10 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Sophie Turner will portray Lara Croft in the new Tomb Raider series on Prime Video.
• The series is created by Phoebe Waller-Bridge, known for Fleabag and Killing Eve.
• Production is scheduled to start in January 2024.
• Lara Croft is a legendary video game character, first introduced in 1996.
• This adaptation aims to bring a fresh perspective to the iconic character.

The Legacy of Lara Croft

Lara Croft, a fictional British archaeologist and adventurer, first appeared in the video game series Tomb Raider in 1996. Created by Core Design, she quickly became a cultural icon, known for her intelligence, athleticism, and adventurous spirit. The character has transcended video games, appearing in films, comics, and novels. Previous portrayals by Angelina Jolie (in 2001 and 2003) and Alicia Vikander (in 2018) brought different interpretations of her character, each garnering attention and acclaim.

What Makes Lara Croft Iconic?

Lara Croft's character combines strength and intellect, making her relatable to many fans. Her adventures often feature themes of exploration, history, and mythology, appealing to a broad audience. Over the years, the character has evolved, reflecting changes in societal views on gender roles and representation in video games.

Behind the Scenes: A Star-Studded Team

Phoebe Waller-Bridge, renowned for her work on the critically acclaimed series Fleabag, will lead the project as creator and writer. Her unique storytelling style and ability to create complex characters have garnered her multiple awards. Waller-Bridge expressed her excitement about adapting this beloved character, stating, "It's not very often you get to make a show of this scale with a character you grew up loving."

Casting Sophie Turner

Sophie Turner, who rose to fame through her portrayal of Sansa Stark in HBO's Game of Thrones, is set to bring her own interpretation to the role of Lara Croft. In her announcement, Turner conveyed her enthusiasm for the role, acknowledging the challenges of following in the footsteps of previous actresses but expressing confidence in the creative team behind the project.

What’s Next for Tomb Raider?

With production set to commence in January 2024, fans can expect a fresh take on Lara Croft's adventures. The involvement of a talented team, including co-showrunner Chad Hodge and director Jonathan Van Tulleken, suggests a commitment to delivering high-quality storytelling and action. Hodge's previous work on Wayward Pines and Good Behavior, along with Van Tulleken's experience on projects like Shōgun, indicates a promising combination of creativity and skill.

Waller-Bridge’s Vision

Waller-Bridge has a vision for Tomb Raider that aims to capture the essence of Lara Croft while introducing new elements. Her previous success in adapting complex female characters will likely inform her approach to Lara. The series promises to explore not only action-packed adventures but also the character's inner struggles and growth.

The Cultural Impact of Tomb Raider

The Tomb Raider franchise has had a significant cultural impact since its inception. It has inspired numerous adaptations, merchandise, and spin-offs. The character of Lara Croft has helped shape the portrayal of female protagonists in gaming and other media. As a strong, independent woman, Croft has broken stereotypes and paved the way for future characters.

Anticipation and Audience Expectations

The announcement of a new Tomb Raider series has generated excitement among fans of the franchise. Many are eager to see how Turner will interpret the character and what new adventures await Lara Croft. Given Waller-Bridge's track record for creating compelling narratives, expectations are high for a series that balances action with emotional depth.

The Future of Video Game Adaptations

The success of video game adaptations has been mixed, with some receiving critical acclaim while others have struggled to resonate with audiences. Tomb Raider's new series aims to set a high standard by combining strong storytelling, a talented cast, and a beloved character. As the landscape of television evolves, adaptations like Tomb Raider could pave the way for more successful representations of video game stories.

Production Timeline and Expectations

With production beginning in January 2024, fans can expect updates on casting, filming locations, and plot details in the coming months. As with any major production, there may be delays or changes, but the anticipation continues to build. The series aims to make its debut on Prime Video in the near future, contributing to the growing catalogue of original content from the platform.

FAQs

When will the Tomb Raider series be released on Prime Video?

While an exact release date has not been announced, production is set to begin in January 2024, so fans can expect the series to premiere sometime in late 2024 or early 2025.

Who is writing and directing the Tomb Raider series?

Phoebe Waller-Bridge is the creator and writer of the series, while Chad Hodge serves as co-showrunner. The series will be directed by Jonathan Van Tulleken.

What is the premise of the Tomb Raider series?

While specific plot details are yet to be revealed, the series will follow Lara Croft, a legendary adventurer and archaeologist, as she embarks on new adventures, exploring history and mythology.

How is Sophie Turner preparing for the role of Lara Croft?

Sophie Turner has expressed her excitement for the role and is likely undergoing preparation to embody the character's physicality and complexity, though specific details on her preparation have not been disclosed.

What does this adaptation mean for the Tomb Raider franchise?

This adaptation aims to bring a fresh perspective to the beloved character, potentially attracting a new audience while satisfying long-time fans of the franchise.

The excitement around Sophie Turner starring in Tomb Raider showcases the ongoing evolution of beloved characters in modern media. As we await more news on the series, the anticipation builds for a fresh take on Lara Croft's adventures. Will this adaptation capture the essence of what has made Lara Croft such an enduring character? #TombRaider #SophieTurner #PhoebeWallerBridge