Today’s quick review: Tomb Raider. Seven years after the disappearance of her father (Dominic West), Lara Croft (Alicia Vikander) finally learns where he went: a forgotten island off the coast of Japan said to be the prison of Queen Himiko, a deadly sorceress. Lara musters her limited resources and sets out on a journey to reach the island. But instead of her father, she finds Mathias Vogel (Walton Goggins), a treasure hunter searching for Himiko’s tomb.
Tomb Raider is an action adventure movie based on the Tomb Raider series of video games. Tomb Raider offers a gritty take on the action adventure genre. The stunts are as fanciful as ever, fueled by sophisticated CGI and large set pieces, but the focus of the action is on survival rather than gunplay. This incarnation of Lara Croft is an ordinary woman thrust into an extraordinary situation that she needs all her wits and bravery to survive.
Tomb Raider has a better story than most action movies. The plot holds few surprises, but it is executed well. The movie takes its time to set up its premise and its characters, resulting in a steady progression and good credibility. Lara herself makes for a decent protagonist. Her mistakes are organic and her triumphs are hard-earned, but she ends up caught uncomfortably between action hero and survivor.
Check out Tomb Raider when you’re in the mood for an action movie with a serious tone. It lacks the depth or the creativity to stand out the way it wants to, but its big stunts, good story, and polish are enough to make it an enjoyable watch. Steer clear if you’re looking for a romp or a grounded drama. For an action adventure with a lighter tone and a more ridiculous plot, check out Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, the previous adaptation of the franchise.
6.8 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 6.5 to 7.0 for solid craftsmanship and a good mix of story and action.