In a move that promises to excite fans of both the iconic video game franchise and the acclaimed writer-producer, Prime Video has announced the development of a live-action Tomb Raider series, with none other than Phoebe Waller-Bridge at the helm. This ambitious project marks yet another significant stride by the streaming giant in adapting beloved video game properties for the small screen, following the resounding success of their recent Fallout series.
The Tomb Raider series will be a collaborative effort between Prime Video, MGM Studios, and Crystal Dynamics, the studio behind the critically acclaimed video game franchise. Waller-Bridge, the Emmy-winning creator of the seminal comedy Fleabag, has been tapped to serve as writer and executive producer, infusing her signature wit and storytelling prowess into the adventures of the legendary Lara Croft.
In a statement brimming with palpable excitement, Waller-Bridge expressed her deep connection to the iconic heroine, stating, “If I could tell my teenage self that this was happening, I think she’d explode. Tomb Raider has been a huge part of my life, and I feel incredibly privileged to be bringing it to television with such passionate collaborators. Lara means a lot to me, as she does to many, and I can’t wait to go on this adventure. Bats ‘n all.”
Scot Amos, Head of Studio at Crystal Dynamics, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the collaboration’s potential to expand the Tomb Raider universe across multiple platforms. “Amazon Studios and Amazon Games are incredible collaborators with a massive reach across the globe, enabling us to expand our Tomb Raider franchise with multiple new adventures and a shared passion for creating impactful, entertaining, emotional experiences for players and viewers throughout every facet of this universe,” Amos said.
This new live-action series marks the latest chapter in Lara Croft’s storied journey to the screen, following the 2001 and 2003 films starring Angelina Jolie, as well as the 2018 reboot with Alicia Vikander. Additionally, Netflix is gearing up to release an animated series titled Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft, further cementing the franchise’s pop culture prominence.
With Waller-Bridge’s critically acclaimed body of work, which includes projects like Killing Eve and the upcoming Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, her involvement promises to bring a fresh and engaging perspective to the beloved character. Fans can look forward to a series that not only captures the thrilling action and adventure that defines Tomb Raider but also delivers the depth, complexity, and emotional resonance that Waller-Bridge is renowned for.
As the development of the live-action Tomb Raider series kicks into high gear, Prime Video continues to solidify its position as a formidable force in the realm of video game adaptations, following the success of Fallout, which amassed over 65 million viewers. With the streaming platform’s proven track record in adapting various mediums, including the hit series The Boys and Invincible, Tomb Raider fans can rest assured that their beloved franchise is in capable hands.
