Tomb Raider: First pictures of Alicia Vikander as Lara Croft released

Alicia Vikander can be seen wearing Lara Croft’s iconic tank top and cargo pants in the first look pictures of her as the famous Tomb Raider character.

Vikander has taken over the reins from Angelina Jolie who immortalised the adventurer in Lara Croft: Tomb Raider (2001) and Lara Croft: Tomb Raider – The Cradle of Life (2003).

Vikander can be seen covered in dust in one shot, standing in a forest, and in action on a beach in another.

The Oscar winning actress said Croft is a “model” for young women and said she took on the role because Croft is “uniquely different to other characters” she has played.

“When I was asked to take on this role I got really excited—Lara Croft is a truly iconic character,” Vikander told Vanity Fair.

“I think people can identify with her for lots of different reasons, but for me I very much see her as a model for many young women. She’s trying to carve out her place in the world and connect her future with her past. She also has a fantastic mix of traits—tough, smart, vulnerable, plus she’s kick a**!

“She is also uniquely different to other characters I have taken on previously. It's a lot of fun trying to get into Lara’s head and the challenge of getting to grips with such a physical role is an element of this project that I find an absolute thrill.”

Croft originated in the Tomb Raider video game franchise launched in 1996.

The new film, directed by Roar Uthaug, will follow Croft as she becomes inspired to investigate the disappearance of her father (Dominic West) seven years after he first went missing. The investigation takes her to his last-known location – a tomb on an island off the coast of Japan.

Daniel Wu and Walton Goggins also star.

Tomb Raider is set for UK cinema release in March 2018.