2016 was supposed to be the year that we finally got a good video game adaptation. Fans placed their hopes on both Warcraft and Assassin’s Creed and unfortunately, neither of them impressed. While each film had a few redeeming qualities, they didn’t do very much for critics or general audiences and so, we’re still sitting here waiting patiently for someone to get it right. Thankfully, it looks like that wait may come to an end quite soon.
That’s because production is now underway on Warner Bros.’ Tomb Raider. An adaptation of the immensely popular video game series, this isn’t the first time the property has been brought to the big screen, as Angelina Jolie starred in two films back in the early 2000s, which were mediocre at best. Now, however, it’s Alicia Vikander’s turn to step into the shoes of Lara Croft and bring the iconic character to life with a “new and fresh” take.
Directed by Roar Uthaug, the first batch of set photos from Tomb Raider have made their way online this week and they place the spotlight on Vikander getting in on some of the action and stunt work. We’re not sure of the context of the scene she’s shooting, but it looks her role here won’t be a walk in the park. Far from it, in fact, as the actress is seen climbing, running and swinging around the set.
Unfortunately, we don’t get a look at her co-stars Dominic West or Walton Goggins, who’s on board to play the villain, but we’re pleased to see that Vikander appears to be fully embracing the part and getting her hands dirty. She wasn’t fans’ top pick to play Croft, but it certainly looks like she’s fitting quite nicely into the role. Of course, the success of the film won’t rest entirely on her performance, but if she could present a believable Lara who we can all root for, it’ll definitely help Tomb Raider‘s chances of breaking the video game adaptation curse.