Written by Dan Jurgens
Art by Billy Tan; Jonathan D. Smith; and Dreamer Design’s Robin Spehar & Dennis Heisler
Cover Art by Billy Tan & Jonathan D. Smith
SUMMARY:
Published by Image Comics’ Top Cow imprint for April 2001, this untitled issue has Lara Croft plummeting from the sky to imminent death in a Himalayan river far below. Mysteriously rescued, a still-intact Lara awakens to find herself in Shangri-La. Exploring its mystically gentle world, Lara is tempted to remain forever. Her hostess, Mu’Tin, intends to ensure that there isn’t an option. Amidst a desperate escape, Lara poignantly reveals the mercy mission re: why she had sought out Shangri-La in the first place.
Note: According to the inside cover, there’s an alternate ‘Graham Cracker’ cover by Tan & Smith for this issue.
REVIEW:
Making this issue better than expected, writer Dan Jurgens overcomes a superficial premise by exploring Lara’s conflict over willfully giving up Shangri-La. Considerably boosting the script are the art team’s stellar visuals, including an outstanding cover image. While Tomb Raider # 12 isn’t a memorable read, it’s still a worthwhile effort towards bolstering Lara Croft into a more fully-realized character.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
There’s a two-page letters-and-answers column, which includes a fan sketch of Lara Croft. Also, the single-page “Image Insider” news-and-notes column includes a guest editorial from writer Dan Jolley.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 7 Stars
