Speculative Review of Tomb Raider 2 (2024)

Plot Speculation

If Tomb Raider 2 follows the trajectory set by the first film, it would likely pick up with Lara Croft embracing her role as an adventurer and archaeologist, continuing her journey into the unknown. The sequel could explore more of her father’s legacy or introduce a new ancient myth or artifact that Lara must find before it falls into the wrong hands. The plot might take her across different continents and ancient ruins, giving her new challenges to face, both physically and mentally.

Key Elements to Expect

1. More Action and Adventure: As with the first film, Tomb Raider 2 is expected to feature thrilling action sequences, high-stakes chases, and daring stunts. Fans will likely see Lara in intense combat situations, engaging in hand-to-hand combat, parkour, and using her signature bow and arrow.
2. Deeper Character Development: In the 2018 Tomb Raider, Lara’s character was still learning the ropes of adventuring and coming to terms with her family’s legacy. In the sequel, we could expect to see a more seasoned Lara, confident in her abilities but still dealing with the emotional toll of her adventures. Her growth into the iconic tomb raider of the video games would be central to her arc.
3. Tombs and Mystical Elements: Fans of the video games will likely hope for more complex tomb exploration and puzzle-solving in the sequel. This could involve ancient traps, secret chambers, and powerful artifacts with mystical properties. These elements would align with the game franchise’s mix of real-world history and fantasy.
4. A New Villain: Every great adventure needs a formidable villain, and Tomb Raider 2 could introduce a new antagonist—possibly a rival archaeologist, a powerful organization, or a cult leader with nefarious plans for a mythical relic. The villain’s motivations would play a key role in heightening the stakes for Lara’s quest.
5. Global Exploration: The first film largely focused on one location, but a sequel could broaden the scope, taking Lara to different parts of the world. Fans might expect to see her traverse deserts, mountains, or even underwater ruins, which would add a fresh dynamic to the action sequences.

Alicia Vikander’s Return as Lara Croft

If Alicia Vikander returns to reprise her role as Lara Croft, audiences can expect a strong, grounded performance that captures the essence of a modern, fierce, and vulnerable Lara. Vikander’s portrayal in the first movie was praised for balancing physicality with emotional depth, and she would likely carry that into the sequel, showing Lara’s transformation into a legendary adventurer.

Tone and Atmosphere

Warner Bros. and the filmmakers would likely maintain the gritty, realistic tone established in the first film. However, they could also lean more into the mystical elements of the Tomb Raider series, adding a supernatural edge to Lara’s adventures. The atmosphere would likely blend high-stakes action with moments of suspense and wonder, keeping viewers on edge as Lara uncovers hidden dangers and ancient secrets.

Potential Themes

• Legacy and Responsibility: As in the first film, Lara’s relationship with her father’s legacy and her growing responsibility as a protector of ancient artifacts could be central themes in the sequel.
• Survival and Sacrifice: Tomb Raider stories often focus on survival in extreme conditions, and the sequel could explore how Lara must sacrifice parts of her personal life for her duty as a tomb raider.
• Good vs. Evil: As she faces new enemies, Lara would likely confront the moral dilemmas of her quest, questioning the nature of the relics she seeks and the consequences of them falling into the wrong hands.

Visual Style

If Tomb Raider 2 follows the visual style of the first film, viewers can expect realistic, gritty cinematography, with natural lighting and rugged, dangerous landscapes playing a large role in the movie’s tone. The action scenes could be shot with a focus on practical effects, ensuring that the stunts feel raw and impactful, especially as Lara navigates treacherous terrain or fights off enemies.

Conclusion

Although Tomb Raider 2 (2024) has not been officially confirmed, the sequel is highly anticipated by fans of both the 2018 film and the video game franchise. Should it materialize, Tomb Raider 2 would likely offer more action, deeper character development for Lara Croft, and new exciting challenges. Fans can expect a mixture of intense physicality, ancient mysteries, and moral dilemmas as Lara continues her evolution into the world-renowned adventurer.