In a recent interview with a major publication, Fleabag star Phoebe Waller-Bridge discussed her evolving approach to bringing Lara Croft to screens, highlighting an appetite for high-stakes action that challenges both male and female audiences. She emphasized a desire to craft a female protagonist who moves through a world that rewards boldness, rhythm, and unpredictability. While recognizing Lara Croft as a modern icon, she stressed that the goal is to surprise viewers with a character who defies expectations at every turn.
Waller-Bridge compared the challenge to scripting a blockbuster thriller for an iconic agent known for sophistication and danger. She noted that the appeal lies in a character who embodies cool confidence while embracing a hint of rebellion, avoiding idealized manners and instead leaning into a sense of danger that can be intoxicating, even in intimate moments of risk.
Historically, Lara Croft has been seen on film by acts such as Angelina Jolie, who portrayed the adventurer in two early installments, and Alicia Vikander, who later took on the role in a contemporary reimagining. These performances established a visible lineage for the character across cinema, underscoring the ongoing interest in how her story translates to broader screens and formats.
Amazon has signaled ambitions to expand the Tomb Raider universe beyond a single project. The plan involves building out a multi-title slate that could include series and feature films, leveraging the established game lore to reach both familiar fans and new audiences. This strategy aims to create a cohesive ecosystem in which Lara Croft’s adventures extend across different formats while staying true to the core elements fans expect.
In discussions about the project, Waller-Bridge publicly affirmed her work on developing a serial adaptation of the Tomb Raider game universe, underscoring a commitment to preserving the spirit of the source material while exploring fresh storytelling avenues. The emphasis remains on delivering a character-driven narrative that can stand up to long-form television while maintaining the high-adrenaline energy associated with Tomb Raider adventures.