Netflix’s Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft is one of the most anticipated animated series of October 2024, and it’s no surprise why. After all, the Tomb Raider franchise has been a beloved staple of gaming culture for decades, enthralling fans with thrilling adventures, ancient puzzles, and an indomitable heroine at its center. Now, Netflix aims to bring that same magic to the screen, with a voice cast led by Hayley Atwell and a fresh take on Lara Croft’s world.
But will this adaptation capture the same excitement that made the games so iconic, or will it falter in the ever-growing catalog of game-to-screen adaptations? Based on what we’ve seen, this show is shaping up to be more than just another adaptation—it’s looking like a compelling reimagining of Lara Croft’s journey.
A Rich Legacy with a Fresh Spin
The Tomb Raider series has seen its share of adaptations, from the blockbuster Angelina Jolie-led films to the more recent reboot with Alicia Vikander. While the live-action films brought Lara’s iconic character to life, the series has struggled to fully translate the immersive experience of solving ancient puzzles and exploring long-lost ruins into a film format.
Enter Netflix’s animated Tomb Raider, set to take place after the video game reboot trilogy, which concluded in 2018. This decision is brilliant because it allows the series to maintain the continuity that the rebooted games established while also giving it the freedom to explore Lara’s character in greater depth. By focusing on this established version of Croft, the animated series can build on her evolution from a reluctant adventurer into a seasoned tomb raider.
The animation medium also provides opportunities that live-action never could. Animated Lara can go to places, fight enemies, and uncover mysteries that would be impossible or exorbitantly expensive in live-action. Early footage hints at larger-than-life action sequences and stunning visuals that push the boundaries of animation, making this more than just a typical cartoon adaptation.
A Stellar Cast and Production Team
Hayley Atwell lends her voice to Lara Croft, which is perhaps the most exciting casting choice. Atwell, known for her work as Peggy Carter in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, brings a blend of strength, intelligence, and vulnerability—traits that are essential for portraying Lara. It’s a role that requires a nuanced balance of action hero and archaeologist, and Atwell’s powerful voice acting is a natural fit.
Behind the scenes, the show benefits from a talented production team that understands both the source material and how to make it resonate with a modern audience. The animation is reportedly overseen by Powerhouse Animation, known for their work on Castlevania, another Netflix series that transitioned from video game to screen with critical acclaim. If Powerhouse’s previous work is any indicator, fans are in for smooth, cinematic action that still retains the complexity and pacing that Tomb Raider fans love.
Action and Storyline: Back to the Tombs
Lara’s character in the 2013 game reboot was grounded in realism—she was human, flawed, and evolving. Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft is set to dive deeper into this version of Lara. While specific plot details are still under wraps, the series will explore Croft’s journey post-reboot. It’s likely that we’ll see a mix of emotional storytelling and pulse-pounding action sequences, much like the games themselves.
One of the biggest draws for the series will undoubtedly be its action. The Tomb Raider games have long been synonymous with jaw-dropping set pieces, and early promotional material for the animated series hints at sequences that would be hard to achieve in live-action. Expect a lot of death-defying jumps, dangerous traps, and high-octane confrontations with Lara’s enemies.
Fans of the games will also be pleased to know that the show’s creators have been working closely with the game’s original developers to ensure the series retains the heart and soul of the video games. Iconic locations like tombs, ancient temples, and sprawling jungles will likely play a huge role in the show’s aesthetic, which will feel familiar to fans while also expanding on the game’s universe.
Potential Pitfalls: The Game-to-Screen Transition
Despite the excitement, there are valid concerns about how well the series will adapt the complex mechanics of the games into a narrative structure. Part of what makes Tomb Raider so captivating is the way players are drawn into solving puzzles and navigating treacherous environments alongside Lara. Translating that sense of interactivity into a passive viewing experience is no easy feat.
Some game adaptations struggle to find the balance between honoring the source material and appealing to a broader audience. Netflix’s Tomb Raider will need to ensure it doesn’t alienate newcomers while still satisfying die-hard fans. The good news is that with its established lore and strong character foundations, the show already has a great starting point. Whether the puzzles and challenges Lara faces will be as engaging to watch as they are to play remains to be seen.
Why You Should Watch
“Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft” is set to be one of the standout animated series of 2024. Whether you’re a fan of the games or new to the world of Lara Croft, the show promises something for everyone. Hayley Atwell’s performance is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated aspects of the series, and the show’s breathtaking animation will likely elevate it above other recent adaptations.
The blend of action, character development, and deep lore makes this a series you won’t want to miss. It could easily become the new standard for how video games are adapted into television shows—retaining the core elements that made the games so popular while also expanding upon them in exciting new ways. Whether you’re an old fan or a newcomer to Lara Croft’s adventures, this series is poised to deliver a thrilling, emotional, and action-packed journey.
