Is The Lost City Based on Romancing the Stone?
The Lost City, a thrilling adventure film released in 2021, has sparked a wave of excitement and curiosity among moviegoers. One of the most frequently asked questions is whether The Lost City is based on the classic 1984 romantic comedy, Romancing the Stone. In this article, we will explore the similarities and differences between the two films and delve into the inspirations behind The Lost City’s captivating storyline.
Romancing the Stone, directed by John Patrick Shanley, is a beloved romantic comedy that follows the adventures of a journalist, Journalist Susan Johnson (starring Kathleen Turner), who travels to Colombia to cover a story about a missing gem. Along the way, she encounters a variety of colorful characters, including a charming thief named Jack T. Colter (starring Michael Douglas), and together they embark on a quest to find the lost gem, the Eye of the Tiger.
The Lost City, directed by Adam Wingard and written by Oren Uziel, is a modern-day adaptation of Romancing the Stone. The film stars Michelle Yeoh as Loretta Saeta, a world-renowned treasure hunter who discovers a map to the mythical city of El Dorado while on a mission to retrieve her stolen journal. Alongside her, she reunites with her former flame, Max, played by David Dastmalchian, and they are joined by a group of eccentric adventurers, including a drug-addicted actor named Travis (played by Patrick Wilson) and a mysterious guide named Ben (played by Brad Pitt).
While The Lost City shares many thematic elements with Romancing the Stone, it also presents a fresh take on the adventure genre. Both films feature a strong female protagonist, a love story, and a quest for a valuable treasure. However, The Lost City introduces a more complex and darker tone, with the characters facing life-threatening situations and moral dilemmas.
One of the most significant differences between the two films is the setting. Romancing the Stone is set in Colombia, while The Lost City takes place in Peru. This change in setting allows for a new cultural backdrop and offers a different perspective on the adventure genre. Additionally, The Lost City incorporates elements of fantasy and science fiction, such as the city of El Dorado and the fictional country of Zandalec.
Another key difference is the casting. In Romancing the Stone, Kathleen Turner and Michael Douglas are the leads, while The Lost City features Michelle Yeoh, Brad Pitt, and a talented ensemble cast. This change in casting reflects the evolution of the film industry and the increasing diversity of leading roles in modern cinema.
In conclusion, while The Lost City is indeed inspired by Romancing the Stone, it stands as a unique and refreshing adaptation that pays homage to the classic while offering a fresh perspective on the adventure genre. The film’s strong female protagonist, engaging plot, and diverse cast make it a must-watch for fans of both the original and the new adaptation. Whether or not The Lost City is a direct retelling of Romancing the Stone, it is clear that the spirit of adventure and romance remains at the heart of this captivating tale.
