Are you a fan of adventure movies? Have you ever watched the movie “The Lost City” and wondered if it’s based on “Romancing the Stone”? In this article, we’ll explore the similarities and differences between the two movies and answer the question, “Is The Lost City based on Romancing the Stone?”
The Lost City Vs Romancing The Stone

As a fan of adventure movies, you might have come across two films that share similar themes, settings, and even storylines. “Romancing the Stone” and “The Lost City” are two such movies. While both are popular adventure films, many fans have been wondering if “The Lost City” is based on “Romancing the Stone.” In this article, we’ll dive into the plots, characters, and settings of both movies and compare them to find out the answer to this question.
Overview of Romancing the Stone
“Romancing the Stone” is a 1984 American romantic comedy-adventure film directed by Robert Zemeckis. The movie stars Kathleen Turner as Joan Wilder, a successful romance novelist who travels to Colombia to rescue her kidnapped sister. Along the way, she meets Jack Colton, a rough-and-tumble adventurer played by Michael Douglas. The two embark on a dangerous journey through the jungles of Colombia to find her sister and a valuable gemstone.
Overview of The Lost City
“The Lost City” is a 2021 American romantic comedy-adventure film directed by Andy Garcia. The movie stars Garcia as Fico Fellove, a club owner in Havana, Cuba, in the late 1950s. Fico’s brother Luis, played by Nestor Carbonell, is a revolutionary who fights against the corrupt government. When Luis is captured, Fico must find a way to free him and reunite with his lost love, Aurora, played by Ines Rivero.
Plot Comparison
Similarities
Both “Romancing the Stone” and “The Lost City” share similar plot elements. In both movies, the main characters are on a mission to find something valuable. In “Romancing the Stone,” Joan and Jack search for a precious gemstone, while in “The Lost City,” Fico searches for his brother and rekindles his romance with Aurora. Both movies also feature a dangerous journey through unknown territory, where the characters face various challenges and obstacles.
Differences
While the plot of both movies is similar, there are also significant differences. “Romancing the Stone” is primarily a romantic comedy with elements of adventure, while “The Lost City” is a drama with comedic elements. Additionally, “The Lost City” takes place in Havana, Cuba, while “Romancing the Stone” is set in Colombia. The tone of the two movies is also different, with “Romancing the Stone” being lighthearted and “The Lost City” being more serious.
Character Comparison
Joan Wilder vs. Loretta Sage
Joan Wilder, played by Kathleen Turner, is a successful romance novelist who is shy and reserved. She is thrown into a dangerous adventure when her sister is kidnapped, and she must travel to Colombia to save her. In contrast, Loretta Sage, played by Sharon Stone, is a confident and independent journalist who is not afraid to take risks. She is the main character in “The Lost City” and plays a crucial role in Fico’s journey.
Jack Colton vs. Tim Johnson
Jack Colton, played by Michael Douglas, is a rough-and-tumble adventurer who helps Joan in her quest. He is a man who lives on the edge and is not afraid of danger. Tim Johnson, played by Bill Murray, is a comical character in “The Lost City.” He is a former Hollywood actor who joins Fico on his journey and provides comic relief throughout the movie.
Setting Comparison
“Romancing the Stone” is set in Colombia, while “The Lost City” takes place in Havana, Cuba. Both movies showcase the beauty and danger of these exotic locations. Romancing the Stone” explores the lush jungles and treacherous rivers of Colombia, while “The Lost City” showcases the vibrant culture and political turmoil of Cuba in the 1950s.
Reception and Box Office Performance
“Romancing the Stone” was a box office success, grossing over $86 million worldwide. It also received critical acclaim and was nominated for several awards, including an Academy Award for Best Film Editing. “The Lost City,” on the other hand, received mixed reviews and had a limited theatrical release. It was also released simultaneously on demand, which may have affected its box office performance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while “The Lost City” shares some similarities with “Romancing the Stone,” it is not based on the 1984 adventure film. Both movies explore the themes of adventure, romance, and danger in exotic locations, but they have significant differences in plot, characters, tone, and setting. Fans of adventure movies will enjoy both films, but they are distinct works of art that stand on their own.