Key Takeaways:
- The Tomb Raider TV series, starring Sophie Turner, has been cancelled.
- Phoebe Waller-Bridge was set to write, executive produce, and direct parts of the series.
- The project faced significant hurdles, including fan backlash and creative issues.
- Amazon’s deal with Waller-Bridge, worth millions, has yet to produce any content.
Introduction: The highly anticipated Tomb Raider series, set to star Sophie Turner, has hit a roadblock. Recent reports indicate the project has been cancelled, leaving fans and industry insiders wondering what went wrong.
Background and Beginnings: Last November, Sophie Turner was cast as Lara Croft in a reboot spearheaded by Phoebe Waller-Bridge. The series was expected to begin filming early in 2025, as announced by Jen Salke, former head of Amazon/MGM. However, sources now confirm the project is no longer moving forward.
The Problems Faced: Despite initial excitement, the project encountered numerous challenges. Fan backlash was significant, with many questioning the direction of the series. Waller-Bridge, known for her work on Fleabag, was heavily involved but faced criticism over her vision for Lara Croft. The project’s struggles were evident, leading to its eventual cancellation.
Contracts and Deals: Phoebe Waller-Bridge signed a lucrative deal with Amazon in 2019, worth $20 million annually, which was renewed despite producing no content. Recently, the contract shifted from exclusive to nonexclusive, with reduced compensation. This change reflects the project’s difficulties and Amazon’s dwindling confidence.
Was It Ever a Good Idea? The decision to reboot Tomb Raider has been met with skepticism. While Angelina Jolie’s portrayal was iconic, the current market is saturated with reboots, making it hard for new projects to stand out. The cancellation raises questions about the wisdom of reviving the franchise.
Looking Ahead: While the cancellation is a setback, both Phoebe Waller-Bridge and Amazon may have other projects in the pipeline. The future of the Tomb Raider franchise remains uncertain, leaving fans hoping for a revival that does justice to its legacy.
In conclusion, the Tomb Raider series faced insurmountable obstacles, leading to its demise. The cancellation underscores the challenges in reimagining beloved franchises and highlights the competitive landscape of streaming content.
