By Ben Wright (@iamzavagno | www.xgeeks.co.uk)
This review is spoiler-free.
As a huge fan of the Tomb Raider series, especially the “Survivor” trilogy, the announcement of a new anime series based around these games was always going to draw me in. Yet, with such a passionate and expectant fanbase, there’s always pressure to meet the high expectations of the franchise, and it was up to showrunner Tasha Huo to navigate all of these elements and deliver a show the fans could be proud of. Congratulations, Tasha Huo, you’ve done it!
Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft is a thrilling anime adaptation that captures the essence of the beloved video game franchise while offering something fresh and exciting for a new generation of fans. With Hayley Atwell as the iconic Lara Croft and Richard Armitage as the charismatic Charles Devereaux, the series is a rollercoaster of adventure, danger, and emotionally charged moments.
One of the series’ strongest aspects is its storytelling. It delves into Lara’s personal history and the emotional toll of her adventures, from the “Survivor” trilogy, making her feel more human and relatable than ever before. This is a deep dive into Lara’s recent trauma and how she is, or isn’t, handling the weight of the situations she’s had to face. The maturity in the writing adds greatly to the show’s enjoyment. The plot is well-paced, with twists and turns that keep you hooked, and it avoids being overly predictable. Like the recent games, the series explores the fantasy and spiritual elements that elevate the show to greater heights. Long-time fans will appreciate the nods to Lara’s rich lore, while new viewers can easily jump into the series without needing any prior knowledge.
In terms of the cast, Atwell is perfectly cast as Lara. She strikes a balance of strength and vulnerability, allowing us to see not just the fearless adventurer, but the woman behind the legend. The emotional weight she carries throughout the series is tangible, and her voice acting is captivating. Armitage, as always, gives a standout performance, adding complexity to the plot, and their on-screen chemistry makes for some truly compelling moments. As this is a continuation of the “Survivor” storyline, it was essential that Earl Baylon reprise his role, and I was pleasantly surprised by how involved he was – at this point, you simply can’t have Lara without Jonah! Zoe Boyle as Camilla Roth is a wonderful addition, with Karen Fukuhara (Sam), Ming-Na Wen (Eva Tong), and Allen Maldonado (Zip) rounding off a superb ensemble cast.
While the animation may be a bit too polished for my personal taste, the overall quality is undeniably high, with stunning visuals and dynamic action sequences that stay true to the high-octane spirit of the Tomb Raider games. Whether it’s exploring ancient ruins or engaging in pulse-pounding combat, the show keeps you on the edge of your seat. The art style strikes a good balance between realism and anime flair, making it visually captivating while still capturing the gritty feel of Lara’s dangerous journey.
Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft is an exciting, action-packed, and emotionally gripping series. From its breathtaking locations to the brilliant performances by Hayley Atwell and Richard Armitage, this series is a must-watch for all Tomb Raider fans.
X-Geeks 