Borderlands Film: Critics' Scathing Review

The highly-anticipated Borderlands film, directed by Eli Roth, is set to hit theaters soon, but early critical reactions appear overwhelmingly negative. Read on to learn more about them and what to expect in the cinema.

Borderlands Film Too Bad to be GoodCast Receives Praise Despite Poor Initial Reviews

Initial assessments for Eli Roth's movie adaptation of Borderlands, the space Western looter shooter game from Gearbox, have been predominantly negative. Critics have recently used social media to express their opinions on the live-action adaptation, as its early release occurred across the US this week. Generally, the reviews were mostly critical, with many highlighting the film's weak humor, unconvincing CGI, and uninspired script.

Edgar Ortega from Loud and Clear Reviews tweeted, "Borderlands feels like what a disconnected executive thinks the ‘cool kids’ find appealing. There is not a single sincere character moment here, just annoying quips that feel outdated as soon as they're spoken. It’s not even so bad it’s good, just a complete mess."

Darren Movie Reviews from Movie Scene Canada stated that the movie is "a confusing video game adaptation," also mentioning the movie's potential for excellent world-building, "but it never materializes due to a hurried and dull script – the set design is impressive, but the film looks inexpensive due to poor CGI."

Some critics found some positive aspects, however, so it doesn't appear everything was a complete failure. Film critic Kurt Morrison noted, "Blanchett and Hart are enjoying themselves here & save this from being a failure," though also adding that "it’ll be a big surprise if this film finds an audience." Meanwhile, The Hollywood Handle offered a somewhat more optimistic view: "Borderlands is an enjoyable PG-13 action movie. It completely relies on Cate Blanchett’s star power to carry itself to the conclusion — and she delivers."

Re-announced by Gearbox in 2020 after a pause, the Borderlands movie features a star-studded cast, although fans of the shooter game franchise have always shown their doubt towards the movie adaptation.

The film follows Lilith, played by Cate Blanchett, as she returns to her home planet "Pandora" to find the missing daughter of Atlas, played by Edgar Ramirez. Teaming up with a diverse group of misfits, Lilith embarks on a dangerous journey with former soldier Roland, played by actor Kevin Hart. Joining them are Ariana Greenblatt—playing demolitionist Tiny Tina, Florian Munteanu as Krieg—Tina’s protector, Jamie Lee Curtis as Tannis, and Jack Black as the robot Claptrap.

As comprehensive reviews from major film critics are anticipated in the coming days, audiences will soon see it for themselves when the Borderlands movie opens in theaters on August 9. Meanwhile, Gearbox has alluded to a new Borderlands game.