Tomb Raider: Anniversary | Media Language Media Representations Media Industries Media Audiences | Cultural | Paper 2 |
Media Language
Media Representations
It could be argued that the iconic protagonist from the Tomb Raider franchise, Lara Croft, is a positive role model for young girls because she is an athletic action hero who ventures through mysterious environments, defeating enemies and saving the world. However, some believe that her entire design is made to satisfy the male gaze.
The preferred reading of Tomb Raider celebrates the main character’s strength and her significant role within the game’s narratives. It’s likely that some girls might use Lara Croft‘s positive representation to help construct their own identities.
The oppositional reading rejects the female empowerment message, viewing the character’s representation as an exaggeration of the female body that appeals to adolescent fantasies. It’s possible that some girls may become insecure or dissatisfied with their own bodies because the representation of Lara Croft creates a false consciousness that they too need to be perfect.
The negotiated reading recognises both interpretations of the text and positions itself in the middle. Although there is a need for diversity and realistic representations of women in video games, Lara Croft is a strong female character who the audience should continue to enjoy playing as.