The phone buzzed on my desk; another Tomb Raider casting announcement. I hesitated, knowing the internet’s track record. This time, it was Sophie Turner as Lara Croft, and the reactions? A predictable storm.
Prime Video revealed the first glimpse of Sophie Turner in costume for the upcoming Tomb Raider series, and the internet, predictably, had opinions.
The official Tomb Raider account posted the wardrobe test image for the live-action adaptation, and the responses were…mixed. Gamers, as always, are a tough crowd.
The costume design, mirroring the original PS1 games with those iconic circular red sunglasses and blue tank top, has been largely praised. However, some are questioning the costume’s apparent quality.
Some fans are ecstatic with this initial glimpse. One Instagram user commented, “She looks identical to the game! I was a little bit nervous because I loved Alicia Vikander as Lara, and felt Sophie is maybe too ‘soft,’ but this is a great first look and can’t wait to see her in action. Great start!” Another was thrilled, stating, “She looks perfect.”
The internet’s cosplay critique: Does it hold up?
I once saw a street performer dressed as Spider-Man get heckled for the quality of his suit. It seems no one is safe from the internet’s judgment, not even Lara Croft.
Yet, many dissenters exist. Several comments dismiss it as mere “cosplay.” I find this baffling. Isn’t it supposed to be Lara’s classic attire? It’s not a complex, technologically advanced suit where budget constraints would drastically affect the execution.
And, of course, a barrage of posts target Turner’s physique, demanding an actress with “bigger breasts” and other such nonsense. Personally, I believe she looks great in the costume. But frankly, appearance is secondary. The true test lies in her performance. That’s where the real potential—or downfall—resides, regardless of what the internet keyboard warriors dictate.
How involved is Crystal Dynamics in the Tomb Raider show?
Crystal Dynamics, the game development studio behind Tomb Raider, is serving as an executive producer. Phoebe Waller-Bridge, known for writing shows like Killing Eve and Fleabag, will write and create the show. Notable actors like Sigourney Weaver and Jason Isaacs are also involved, providing further cause for optimism.
Prime Video’s Game Plan: Beyond Lara Croft
Think of Prime Video as a digital archaeologist, carefully excavating beloved game franchises.
Following the conclusion of Fallout‘s current season, Tomb Raider’s first season is expected to arrive, followed by the God of War adaptation (with Ryan Hurst recently announced as Kratos). Amazon’s Prime Video is clearly investing heavily in adapting video game worlds for television. The budget feels less like a trickle and more like a firehose.
When will the Tomb Raider series be released?
While an exact release date remains under wraps, the expectation is that Tomb Raider will follow the current season of Fallout, placing its debut sometime in late 2024 or early 2025. Keep an eye on official Prime Video announcements for confirmation.
What are your initial thoughts on Sophie Turner as Lara Croft? Will she defy expectations, or will the internet’s first impressions prove accurate?