By Blake Laurita
Staff Writer
“Tomb Raider” is the latest reboot in the Lara Croft action series which has spawned a number of video games and precious movies as well.
“Tomb Raider” excels in stunt choreography, and has a memorable performance from Alicia Vikander as Lara Croft. The film, however, does get bogged down by a stagnant supporting cast and issues with plotting.
Directed by Roar Uthaug, the film stars Vikander as Lara Croft. “Tomb Raider” focuses on Croft’s transformation to a bow and arrow wielding treasurer finder.
A video game initially started the Tomb Raider series in 1996. The success found from this PlayStation classic paved the way for numerous sequels and movie adaptations of the story of Lara Croft. “Tomb Raider” is the latest installation of this respected franchise.
The focal point of the film is undoubtedly Vikander who stars as Lara Croft. Her dynamic performance carries the film. The success of the film hinged on Vikander’s performance, and she delivered, offering an excellent change in character from start to finish.
The film stands apart from other films most noticeably in its stunt choreography. The realism employed in this department is most apparent in a scene where Lara Croft is floating down a river with a perilous drop at the end. Croft grabs on to a WWII style bomber just as the waterfall begins. This enthralling scene captures the audience’s attention and epitomizes the skill of the stunt team.
One noticeable weakness of the film is Tomb Raider’s lack of attention given to supporting characters. Many feel one dimensional and add no value to the film. The majority of the supporting characters are portrayed more as plot devices as opposed to actual people with motives.
Another weak point of the film is the inclusion of subpar subplots, borrowed from the video game version of the film. These subplots felt forced and did not fit well into the movie adaptation.
Overall, “Tomb Raider” is another exciting action movie that capitalizes on its casting of Vikander as Lara Croft and features an award-winning stunt team. Plagued by a weak supporting cast and weak subplots, the film proves to be mediocre.
“Tomb Raider” is rated PG-13 and is available for viewing in theaters nationwide.
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