In 2001 the popular video game Tomb Raider was being transformed into a big-budget movie. The end result was playful; carefree with self-irony. Angelina Jolie performed the role of Lara Croft with fervour. The rest of the actors seems to enjoy theirselves also. Besides the most important elements of the game (viz. Lara Croft, keys, puzzles, bosses, battle between good and evil, divers locations, simplistic storyline) were intersected into the movie very professionally. Cleary Lara Croft: Tomb Raider was made with passion.

Two years later -at the same time with the release of the disappointing game Tomb Raider: The Angel Of Darkness- the second movie was ready for cinema. Tomb Raider - The Cradle Of Life was it called. Easily the more miserable "blockbuster" of 2003.

The Cradle Of Life turns out to be a pathetic failure. No more playfulness or parody, a dull soundtrack, no single reference of the original game, no atmosphere and a complete lack of interest displayed by the actors. Even Angelina Jolie takes part in the malaise. Apart from the first 15 minutes The Cradle Of Life reminds the most of the worst James Bond movie ever made.

After seeing the movie I am wondering:

"Did director Jan de Bont ever played a Tomb Raider game just for fun?"

I think I know the answer. One conclusion has the be made from this all: Jan de Bont should never have gotten the opportunity to direct this movie. But he did. The decline of a potential entertaining movie became the outcome. This Dutchman probably likes James Bond a lot, but does not have a single clue what Tomb Raider is about.

If they ever decide to produce a third Tomb Raider movie let it be done by creative people with affinity for the video game.

- October 2003 -

Angelina Jolie ... Lara Croft
Gerard Butler ... Terry Sheridan
Ciarán Hinds ... Jonathan Reiss
Chris Barrie ... Hillary
Noah Taylor ... Bryce

Written by: Steven E. de Souza, James V. Hart
Directed by: Jan de Bont