Borderlands Film: Critics' Scathing Review

The highly anticipated Borderlands movie, directed by Eli Roth, is about to hit theaters, but early critical reaction is overwhelmingly negative. Let's dive into the reviews and see what cinema-goers can expect.

Borderlands Movie: More Miss Than Hit?

Stellar Cast Can't Save a Critically Panned Film

Early reviews for Eli Roth's Borderlands adaptation are overwhelmingly negative. Critics, following early screenings across the US, have taken to social media to voice their disappointment. Common criticisms include lackluster humor, unconvincing CGI, and a weak screenplay.

Edgar Ortega of Loud and Clear Reviews tweeted, "Borderlands feels like what an out-of-touch executive thinks the ‘cool kids’ find appealing. There isn't a single earnest character moment, just obnoxious quips that feel dated immediately. It’s not even ‘so bad it’s good,’ just a complete mess."

Darren Movie Reviews from Movie Scene Canada called it "a baffling video game adaptation," praising the potential for world-building, but stating, "it never happens due to a rushed and dull screenplay – the set design is impressive, but the film looks cheap due to poor CGI."

However, not all reviews were entirely damning. Film critic Kurt Morrison noted, "Blanchett and Hart are having a lot of fun here & save this from being a complete trainwreck," though he added, "it’ll be a big surprise if this film finds an audience." The Hollywood Handle offered a slightly more positive perspective: "Borderlands is a fun PG-13 action movie. It completely relies on Cate Blanchett’s star power to carry itself to the finish line — and she delivers."

Despite a star-studded cast and a 2020 re-announcement after a period of silence, the film has faced skepticism from fans of the video game franchise since its inception.

As major publications release their full reviews in the coming days, audiences will get to see for themselves when Borderlands hits theaters on August 9th. In related news, Gearbox has hinted at a new Borderlands game.