Unearthing the Truth: Why Was There Never a “Second” Tomb Raider?
The question of why there was never a “second” Tomb Raider is deceptively simple, yet fraught with complexities arising from reboots, re-imaginings, and competing creative visions across both film and video game mediums. There have been multiple sequels to various Tomb Raider iterations, but the specific meaning of “second” depends on which version of Lara Croft’s adventures you’re referencing. This is why the answer is not straightforward!
In essence, there hasn’t been a consistent, linear continuation of any single Tomb Raider narrative across all forms of media. Instead, the franchise has undergone periodic reboots and soft reboots, leading to separate timelines and continuities. Each of these timelines has seen follow-ups, but no single Lara Croft story has been definitively carried across every potential sequel.
Understanding the Multiple Tomb Raider Continuities
To truly understand why there hasn’t been a straightforward “second” Tomb Raider, it’s essential to appreciate the separate continuities:
- The Original Core Design Games (1996-2003): The original game Tomb Raider had many sequels.
- The Angelina Jolie Films (2001-2003): The first movie, Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, did get a sequel, Lara Croft Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life. Angelina Jolie, however, decided not to participate in a third film. Her decision was primarily based on her satisfaction with the second film, as she felt it realized the vision they had for the character and the franchise at that point.
- The Crystal Dynamics Reboot Trilogy (2013-2018): This trilogy, consisting of Tomb Raider (2013), Rise of the Tomb Raider, and Shadow of the Tomb Raider, presented a completely new origin story for Lara Croft.
- Alicia Vikander Film (2018): This film, starring Alicia Vikander, was intended to launch a new film franchise based on the 2013 reboot game. However, the planned sequel was eventually scrapped.
Each of these had sequels within their specific timeline but did not have any link to the other Tomb Raider timelines and sequels.
The Case of the Scrapped Alicia Vikander Sequel
The most recent and perhaps most disappointing example is the planned sequel to the 2018 Tomb Raider film starring Alicia Vikander. This film was a loose adaptation of the 2013 reboot game and showed promise for a new cinematic take on Lara Croft.
However, the sequel faced several hurdles:
- Loss of Rights by MGM: MGM, the studio behind the 2018 film, reportedly lost the film rights to the Tomb Raider franchise after failing to greenlight a sequel within a specific timeframe. This was the major blow for any continuation with Alicia Vikander.
- Creative Differences: Ben Wheatley, who was initially attached to direct the sequel, cited the coronavirus pandemic as a major factor in the project falling apart. However, it’s likely that creative differences between the various parties involved also played a role.
- Vikander’s Disappointment: Alicia Vikander has publicly expressed her disappointment at the sequel’s cancellation, indicating her enthusiasm for reprising the role.
Essentially, the 2018 film was intended to be the “first” in a new series, but due to a combination of logistical and creative obstacles, a direct follow-up never materialized.
Why the Constant Reboots?
The Tomb Raider franchise has frequently undergone reboots due to a number of reasons:
- Maintaining Relevance: Reboots allow the franchise to stay relevant by adapting to changing audience tastes and technological advancements.
- Exploring New Storytelling Opportunities: Each reboot provides a fresh canvas for telling Lara Croft’s story in new and exciting ways.
- Legal and Business Considerations: As seen with the Alicia Vikander sequel, legal issues like rights ownership can force studios to abandon existing timelines and start anew.
- Balancing Nostalgia and Modernity: The Tomb Raider franchise needs to satisfy both the existing fanbase and create new fans by offering a compelling experience in the current era.
Legacy and Future of Tomb Raider
Despite the lack of a consistent, linear continuation, the Tomb Raider franchise remains a cultural icon. The character of Lara Croft has evolved over time, reflecting changing societal attitudes and technological advancements in gaming and film. The character continues to appeal to gamers because of her intelligence and fearless attitude.
With the upcoming remastered trilogy of the original games and potential future installments, the Tomb Raider story is far from over.
There are learning opportunities in games, and organizations like the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org explore the impact of video games on education and society.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions related to the Tomb Raider franchise:
1. Is Tomb Raider 2 getting a remake?
Yes! Tomb Raider I, II, and III are being remastered in a package titled Tomb Raider I, II, III Remaster.
2. Why didn’t Angelina Jolie do another Lara Croft film?
Angelina Jolie stated that she was satisfied with the second film, Lara Croft Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life, and didn’t feel the need to do another one.
3. What is the controversy with the Tomb Raider reboot?
The 2013 reboot faced controversy due to early promotional material suggesting a rape attempt on Lara Croft, which was perceived as exploitative.
4. Why does Angelina Jolie look like Lara Croft?
Angelina Jolie underwent extensive physical and mental training to embody the athleticism and skills of Lara Croft.
5. Is Alicia Vikander in a sequel to Lara Croft?
No, the planned sequel to the 2018 film starring Alicia Vikander was canceled.
6. Does Alicia Vikander have a child?
Yes, Alicia Vikander and Michael Fassbender have a son born in 2021.
7. Are all Tomb Raider movies connected?
No, the Tomb Raider movies are not directly connected. The Angelina Jolie films are one continuity, while the Alicia Vikander film is a reboot based on the 2013 video game.
8. Will there be a 4th Tomb Raider game in the reboot series?
Crystal Dynamics is working on a new Tomb Raider game, anticipated for release around Winter 2024/Spring 2025.
9. Did Tomb Raider get a reboot?
Yes, the 2013 game Tomb Raider was a reboot of the franchise, telling a new origin story for Lara Croft.
10. Is Tomb Raider 2013 inappropriate?
Tomb Raider 2013 contains violent scenes and mature themes that may be inappropriate for young children.
11. Are Tomb Raider 2013 and Rise of the Tomb Raider connected?
Yes, Rise of the Tomb Raider is the sequel to Tomb Raider 2013 and is part of the “Survivor Trilogy”.
12. Was Lara Croft in love with Sam?
The original story concept for Tomb Raider: Inferno included Lara confessing her feelings for Sam, but this plot point was later changed.
13. Who is Lara Croft modeled after?
Lara Croft was inspired by various sources, including pop artist Neneh Cherry and comic book character Tank Girl.
14. How much did Angelina Jolie get paid for Tomb Raider?
Angelina Jolie earned $7 million for the first Tomb Raider film and $12 million for the second.
15. Who owns Tomb Raider now?
The Tomb Raider franchise is currently owned by CDE Entertainment.