Making the same mistake as the first film, the second big screen adaptation of hugely successful video game Tomb Raider is filled with memorable moments, tons of action, and loads of Angelina Jolie. It's also overly long, lacking in depth, and fails to suspend disbelief for the story to come together. Cradle of Life is no better or worse than the first.
This sequel definitely ups its scale thanks to a slightly higher budget. Action takes place in China, Kenya, Wales, and London. The constantly shifting scenery means the film is rarely repetitive, but hovering close to the two hour mark, it's definitely dull.
Cradle of Life starts a new scene for the sole purpose of setting up an action scene or extravagant stunt. There's nothing here about why Lara does what she does, and the first film explored this loosely at best. This gives almost no reason for anything happening on screen. The story is focused on her partner, played by Gerard Butler (who of course makes all the right moves at the exact moment to save her). By doing this, it makes Croft a sloppier and more foolhardy character compared to the one she was in the first film.
Energy is the film's saving grace. Jan de Bont handles the direction of this $90 million action fest. From the opening scene inside a fallen temple underwater to the finale featuring a slightly far-out attack by a group of monstrous ghosts, the film looks its budget. Choreography is spectacular and the sets are epic. Computer effects have been greatly improved over the first film.
That's not enough to raise Cradle of Life up a level. There is still plenty of dialogue to sift through, and few lines actually amount to anything significant. The ending brings a small revelation that fails to make the needed impact because Lara Croft has been given little reason for being. Watch for the typical set of reasons for a dumb action movie to exist. 
Article comments
1 - mdlwoods
The screentest of Gerard Butler is not pointless...just ask the millions of female Gerry Butler fans. It probably is the most viewed screentest......ever!
2 - U****
Hi, i am an absoloutly, die-hard/hard-core tombraider/Lara Croft fan!!! I must admit the first movie was a SLIGHT disappointment but, The Cradle of Life is absoloutly brilliant! It contains action, romance and tragedy!!! What more could you want?!? Unless you are a mindless idiot, you will not enjoy this film.