Travis Simpkins: Alicia Vikander

Saturday, April 21, 2018

Tomb Raider (2018): Alicia Vikander as Lara Croft

Directed by Roar Uthaug, Tomb Raider (2018) is based on the 2013 version of the video game and is a reboot of the earlier Tomb Raider film series. The story follows Lara Croft, the independent daughter of a wealthy adventurer, who is pushed to the limits when she finds herself on the remote Pacific island where her father disappeared. Action and archaeology mix well with ancient curses and legend. The mummy of the mythical Queen Himiko, said to hold the power of life and death, adds a nice eery touch. The cast does a great job, including Alicia Vikander as Lara Croft and Dominic West as her father.

Tomb Raider. 2018

Tomb Raider. 2018: Alicia Vikander as Lara Croft

Saturday, April 2, 2016

Anna Karenina (2012): Keira Knightley in 19th Century Imperial Russia

Directed by Joe Wright, based on the Classic novel by Leo Tolstoy, Anna Karenina (2012) adds some 21st Century style to literary tradition. Set in 1874 Imperial Russia, the story focuses on the forbidden extra-marital love affair between socialite Anna Karenina and Count Alexei Vronsky… and it's tragic consequences. The cinematography is excellent and stylish, switching back and forth between stage sets and traditional set design. Great attention was given to historic 19th Century details, and the film won an Academy Award for Best Costume Design. Keira Knightley is beautiful and enticing as Anna Karenina. Aaron Taylor-Johnson delivers a fine performance as her lover, Count Vronsky. The supporting cast is great as well, including Jude Law, Kelly Macdonald, Matthew Macfayden, Domhnall Gleeson, Ruth Wilson, Alicia Vikander, Olivia Williams and Emily Watson.