The Lost City (2022): A Playful Jungle Adventure with Unexpected Chemistry
The Lost City, released in 2022 and directed by Aaron and Adam Nee, is a romantic action-comedy that combines old-school adventure storytelling with a modern twist. With a cast led by Sandra Bullock, Channing Tatum, Daniel Radcliffe, and a brief but hilarious appearance by Brad Pitt, the film offers a humorous and self-aware take on the treasure-hunt genre. While not breaking new ground, The Lost City succeeds by embracing its silliness and delivering a wildly entertaining ride full of charm, chaos, and comic relief.
The plot centers around Loretta Sage (Sandra Bullock), a successful but reclusive romance novelist who has grown disillusioned with her career and personal life. Loretta’s books, known for their steamy covers and jungle-set adventures, are largely inspired by her background as a historian and archaeologist. When she’s forced on a promotional book tour alongside her handsome but clueless cover model, Alan (Channing Tatum), Loretta is clearly annoyed. Things take a turn for the bizarre when she is kidnapped by eccentric billionaire Abigail Fairfax (Daniel Radcliffe), who believes her fictional novel contains clues to a real-life lost treasure.
Alan, desperate to prove he’s more than just the pretty face behind “Dash,” Loretta’s fictional hero, sets out to rescue her. What follows is a chaotic, jungle-based rescue mission that turns into an unexpected journey of self-discovery, personal growth, and awkward romantic tension. From quicksand and gunfights to ancient ruins and snakes, the film embraces every classic adventure trope with a wink and a laugh.
What makes The Lost City work is its cast. Sandra Bullock brings her signature combination of sharp wit and vulnerability, making Loretta both funny and relatable. Channing Tatum plays against type as the sweet and slightly dim model, and their chemistry is surprisingly effective, elevating the comedic moments and giving the film some emotional grounding. Daniel Radcliffe is a standout as the over-the-top villain, delivering lines with manic glee and a touch of madness that makes his character strangely entertaining. Brad Pitt’s cameo as the ultra-competent mercenary Jack Trainer provides one of the film’s funniest sequences.
Visually, The Lost City takes full advantage of its tropical setting. The cinematography captures lush landscapes, dense jungles, and crumbling ancient ruins, giving the movie an authentic adventure feel. However, the action is intentionally light and comedic rather than intense or gritty, which fits the film’s tone. The screenplay is packed with tongue-in-cheek humor, playful banter, and self-aware references to romance and adventure clichés, making the story accessible and fun for a wide audience.
Ultimately, The Lost City is not meant to be taken seriously—it’s a popcorn movie in the best sense. It pokes fun at genre conventions while celebrating them, offering a blend of humor, romance, and action that feels refreshing. With charismatic leads, a silly but satisfying plot, and a sense of joy that runs throughout, The Lost City proves that sometimes, getting lost can lead to the best kind of adventure.
