Plot Summary

The Lost City of Z is an epic biographical adventure drama directed and written for the screen by James Gray, adapted from David Grann’s 2009 nonfiction book of the same name. The film chronicles the extraordinary true story of British explorer Percy Fawcett, portrayed by Charlie Hunnam, whose obsession with uncovering a lost ancient civilization in the Amazon would define his life and legacy.

In the early 20th century, Major Percy Fawcett is commissioned by the Royal Geographical Society to map the uncharted borders between Bolivia and Brazil. During his expedition into the dense and unforgiving Amazon rainforest, Fawcett becomes convinced that he has discovered evidence of a previously unknown advanced civilization—one he later names “Z.” His claims, however, are met with skepticism and ridicule by the scientific establishment, many of whom dismiss the idea as fantasy and attribute the remains to primitive tribes.

Driven by unwavering belief and a desire to restore his family’s reputation, Fawcett embarks on a series of increasingly perilous expeditions. Supported by his devoted wife Nina (played by Sienna Miller), his son Jack (played by Tom Holland), and his loyal aide-de-camp Henry Costin (played by Robert Pattinson), Fawcett risks fortune, family stability, and ultimately his life in pursuit of the elusive city.

Blending historical authenticity with sweeping jungle cinematography, The Lost City of Z explores themes of ambition, colonialism, intellectual prejudice, and the thin line between visionary genius and destructive obsession. It is a haunting meditation on exploration and the human compulsion to chase the unknown—no matter the cost.