Amazon MGM
Amazon’s First Look at Sophie Turner as Lara Croft Divides the Internet
Amazon MGM Studios has officially kicked off production on its highly anticipated “Tomb Raider” series for Prime Video, unveiling a first-look image of Sophie Turner as Lara Croft—and the internet has plenty to say about it. While some fans praised Turner’s physical transformation and commitment to the role, others were far less convinced, reigniting long-running debates about legacy casting and Hollywood reboots.
The series, based on the iconic Tomb Raider video game franchise, positions Turner as the legendary archaeologist-adventurer previously immortalized on screen by Angelina Jolie. That comparison alone was enough to set social media ablaze.
Social Media Reacts: Praise, Backlash, and Brutal Takes
The newly released image quickly went viral, sparking a wave of mixed reactions. Supporters applauded Sophie Turner’s look and intensity, with comments like, “She looks like she stepped straight out of the games,” and “They nailed the classic Lara Croft vibe.”
But detractors were equally vocal. Some criticized the styling and overall presentation, calling it “unfinished” and “Halloween shoot energy.” Others were harsher, bluntly posting, “Go girl, give us nothing,” while another fan insisted Turner needed to appear “way more intimidating.”
The most persistent criticism, however, centered on nostalgia. “Sorry, but Angelina Jolie is and always will be my Lara,” wrote one fan, echoing a sentiment shared across platforms. The reaction underscores how deeply Jolie’s portrayal remains embedded in pop culture.
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Inside the Tomb Raider Series at Prime Video
Despite the online noise, Amazon MGM is betting big on the project. The series is being spearheaded by Phoebe Waller-Bridge, who serves as creator, writer, executive producer, and co-showrunner alongside Chad Hodge. Direction and executive production duties are handled by Jonathan Van Tulleken.
The ensemble cast includes Sigourney Weaver, Jason Isaacs, Celia Imrie, Paterson Joseph, and August Wittgenstein, signaling a prestige-driven approach to the adaptation. Production is backed by Amazon MGM Studios, Crystal Dynamics, and Story Kitchen, with Legendary Television also on board.
Sophie Turner’s Physical Transformation Raises the Stakes
Beyond aesthetics, Sophie Turner’s commitment to the role has drawn admiration. The actor revealed she trained up to eight hours a day, five days a week to physically prepare for the demanding role—an effort many fans say deserves patience before judgment.
For some, the backlash highlights a larger issue in modern fandom. As one commenter put it, “Mediocrity is all Hollywood can handle anymore,” framing the controversy as part of a broader skepticism toward reboots and recasting beloved characters.
Whether praised or panned, one thing is clear: Sophie Turner’s Lara Croft has people talking, and that may be exactly what Amazon wants. As production continues, the real test will be whether the series can move beyond first impressions and redefine Lara Croft for a new generation—without alienating the old guard.
