In 2001, the world of action cinema was about to get a new icon: Lara Croft, brought to life by none other than Angelina Jolie. The film adaptation of the popular video game series, Tomb Raider, was a highly anticipated event, and Jolie’s casting as the titular character was a topic of much discussion.
But what many fans might not know is the extent to which Jolie was willing to go to prove herself worthy of the role.
Angelina Jolie, known for her intense dedication to her roles, faced significant scrutiny when she was cast as Lara Croft. Her reputation at the time was marked by controversy, including rumors of drug abuse and a scandalous personal life. However, Jolie was determined to silence her critics and prove she was the perfect fit for the role.
Angelina Jolie’s Ultimate Commitment to Lara Croft
When director Simon West recalled Jolie’s determination to play Lara Croft, he highlighted her unwavering commitment. According to an excerpt from the biography “Leading Lady: Sherry Lansing and the Making of a Hollywood Groundbreaker,” as reported by People:
Look, I want to do it, but I know what my reputation is, and I’ll do anything you want to prove that I’m worthy. I don’t care if the studio wants to drug test me every day.
— Angelina Jolie, as conveyed by Simon West
This commitment was more than just words, though. According to the same book, People notes, Jolie was subjected to rigorous drug tests during the filming of Lara Croft: Tomb Raider. She underwent urine tests and even blood tests to ensure she remained clean and sober.
Jolie’s willingness to take these tests was evidence of her dedication—and her subsequent preparation for the role was nothing short of rigorous. She underwent extensive physical training, including weightlifting, martial arts, and gymnastics, to achieve the athletic physique required for the character.
This training was not just about physical appearance; it was also about mastering the skills necessary to perform many of the stunts herself. Jolie’s dedication to authenticity was evident in her insistence on doing as much of her own stunt work as possible.
Overcoming Odds and Exceeding Expectations
Jolie’s performance in the movie was not just about passing drug tests but about delivering a compelling portrayal of Lara Croft. As a result—despite the film’s mixed critical reception—her portrayal of the character drew widespread praise.
Fans of the video game series appreciated her commitment to authenticity and her ability to bring depth and nuance to the role. As one Reddit user recently noted:
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Another user echoed this sentiment, highlighting Jolie’s ability to fully immerse herself in her roles and devotion to giving it her all:
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In the end, Jolie’s determination and hard work paid off. She passed all the drug tests, outperformed expectations, and overall had a truly remarkable experience. Her portrayal of Lara Croft has become iconic, solidifying her status as a Hollywood star and paving the way for future female action heroes.
What do you think about Angelina Jolie’s commitment to playing Lara Croft? Did her portrayal of the character live up to your expectations? Let us know in the comments below!
