Why was there no Tomb Raider 3 movie?
The Tomb Raider film series, which started with Lara Croft: Tomb Raider in 2001, starring Angelina Jolie, did not produce a third installment due to a combination of factors, including Angelina Jolie’s decision not to continue with the role and the underperformance of the second film, Lara Croft Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life, at the box office. The lack of a third movie in the original series with Angelina Jolie led to a reboot of the film franchise, with Alicia Vikander taking on the role of Lara Croft in the 2018 film Tomb Raider, but a sequel to this film was also canceled due to creative differences and budget concerns.
Introduction to the Tomb Raider Series
The Tomb Raider series, which originated as a video game franchise, has a complex and intriguing history, with various attempts to bring the adventures of Lara Croft to the big screen. Understanding the reasons behind the absence of a third Tomb Raider film with Angelina Jolie and the challenges faced by subsequent films and games can provide insight into the evolution of the franchise.
History of the Tomb Raider Films
The first two Tomb Raider films, Lara Croft: Tomb Raider (2001) and Lara Croft Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life (2003), starred Angelina Jolie as Lara Croft. Despite their commercial success, with the first film grossing over $274 million worldwide, Angelina Jolie decided not to pursue a third film, citing satisfaction with the second installment and a desire to move on to other projects.
The Reboot and Cancellation
Years later, the franchise was rebooted with Alicia Vikander starring as Lara Croft in the 2018 film Tomb Raider, which received mixed reviews and moderate box office success. Plans for a sequel were underway, with Misha Green set to write and direct, but the project was ultimately canceled due to creative differences between Alicia Vikander and Misha Green, as well as concerns over the growing budget and Square Enix losing patience with the film’s development.
FAQs
1. Why did Angelina Jolie not do Tomb Raider 3?
Angelina Jolie decided not to do Tomb Raider 3 because she felt satisfied with the second film and did not see a need to continue with the role.
2. What happened to the Tomb Raider movies?
The Tomb Raider film series experienced a hiatus after the second film, with a reboot happening years later starring Alicia Vikander, but a sequel to this reboot was canceled.
3. Will there be a 4th Tomb Raider?
There are ongoing developments in the Tomb Raider video game series, with Crystal Dynamics working on a new installment, but there is no confirmation on a fourth film.
4. Why was Tomb Raider 2 cancelled?
The sequel to the 2018 Tomb Raider film was canceled due to creative differences, budget concerns, and Square Enix losing patience with the project.
5. What is the controversy with the Tomb Raider reboot?
The 2013 Tomb Raider video game reboot included a scene with a rape attempt, which sparked controversy and discussion about the portrayal of violence against women in games.
6. Was Tomb Raider a flop?
The 2018 Tomb Raider film did moderately well at the box office, earning enough to potentially be considered a success given its budget, but it underperformed in North America.
7. Who owns Tomb Raider now?
The Tomb Raider franchise is currently owned by CDE Entertainment, after being acquired from Square Enix in 2022.
8. Is Lara Croft based on a real person?
Lara Croft was inspired by Neneh Cherry and the comic book character Tank Girl, created to challenge stereotypes of women in video games.
9. Did Angelina Jolie do her own stunts in Tomb Raider?
Angelina Jolie performed many of her own stunts in the Tomb Raider films, showcasing her physical capabilities and commitment to the role.
10. How many Tomb Raiders did Angelina Jolie make?
Angelina Jolie starred in two Tomb Raider films: Lara Croft: Tomb Raider and Lara Croft Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life.
11. What is Lara Croft’s real job?
Lara Croft is portrayed as a British archaeologist and adventurer, exploring ancient tombs and ruins.
12. Why is Tomb Raider a 15?
The Tomb Raider films and games often receive a 15 rating due to their depiction of violence, use of weapons, and mature themes.
13. Are all Tomb Raider games connected?
The Tomb Raider games have a complex timeline, with the original series being connected, but separate from the Legend trilogy and the more recent Survivor trilogy.
14. In which order should I play Tomb Raider?
For new players, starting with the Survivor timeline (Tomb Raider 2013, Rise of the Tomb Raider, Shadow of the Tomb Raider) is recommended for an easily accessible and cohesive story.
15. What is the future of the Tomb Raider franchise?
The future of the Tomb Raider franchise includes ongoing developments in video games, with Crystal Dynamics working on a new game, and potential future film projects, though none have been officially announced.