This is where I start to have fun.”
Video games have been a reoccurring phenomenon for a long time. While many entertaining attempts to make these into either movies, TV shows, or even a Saturday cartoon or two have been attempted, most have fallen far short of recreating the viewers’ enthusiasm with the game they love. So when the news was out that one of the trendiest video games of the past decade, Tomb Raider and one of the hottest characters Laura Croft were about to hit the big screen fans were rightfully skeptical. The key to making a good movie from a game is to pick the right actor to play that role, and in this case no one could think of a better person to play Lara Croft then the unstoppable bombshell, Angelina Jolie. Tomb Raider succeeds where others have failed; keeping fans happy and even intriguing non-fans with its action packed, heart pounding, thrill a minute, adventure plot.
When Laura Croft (Jolie) lost her father (played by Jolie’s real father John Voight), to the unknown some 15 plus years ago, she vowed to continue his work as an explorer / adventurer, what some might refer to as a “tomb raider”. Well trained, well armed, and well financed Laura may seem ready for everything. She will need all of her training and more to get her through her next mission however. It seems that that her father left Laura some clues to the greatest adventure of her life, one that will take her to the ends of the earth, and with expose her to unimaginable danger. But for this Tomb Raider, danger is more then half the fun.
Presented in anamorphic widescreen, the video clarity is better then average but still exhibits some dirt. It is sound that makes an action movie, in a word heart pounding. And the Dolby Digital 5.1 surround soundtrack here is very good indeed. The only thing missing that would take this from good to great sound is the absence of a DTS soundtrack or a THX EX version.
If you are the type of person that likes to explore how a concept gets onto the big screen then the special features offered here should be right up your alley. From “Are you Game?” a look at the video game from which the movie stems, to “Digging into Tomb Raider” an in-depth look at the cast and crew. Other extras include deleted scenes, making of stunts, visual effects, and a complete overview of Angelina Jolie’s physical training for the role of Lara Croft.
If you like action, love the video game, or if you are a repressed explorer, then this one should be on your list. There is another group that will find this one irresistible, anyone that is in love with Angelina Jolie. So if you agree with Billy Bob or Angelina’s brother, that she is the hottest thing on earth check out the shower scene. One thing is for sure, this is a role that was meant for Jolie, she is Lara Croft and we’d raid a tomb with her any time!Read full review
