Early critical reaction to Eli Roth's Borderlands movie adaptation is overwhelmingly negative, despite a star-studded cast. While some praise the performances, particularly Cate Blanchett and Kevin Hart, the consensus points to significant flaws.
A Critical Mauling, Despite Star Power
Critics cite a weak script, unconvincing CGI, and humor that falls flat as major shortcomings. Edgar Ortega of Loud and Clear Reviews described it as "a complete mess," lacking genuine emotional depth and relying on dated jokes. Darren Movie Reviews from Movie Scene Canada called it a "baffling video game adaptation," highlighting the untapped potential for world-building squandered by a rushed and uninspired screenplay.
While the film's impressive set design is noted, poor CGI detracts from the overall visual experience. However, not all reviews are entirely damning. Kurt Morrison acknowledges Blanchett and Hart's enjoyable performances, suggesting they prevent the film from being a complete disaster, although he doubts it will find a wide audience. The Hollywood Handle offers a slightly more positive assessment, calling it a "fun PG-13 action movie" carried by Blanchett's performance.
The film, re-announced in 2020, features Cate Blanchett as Lilith, Kevin Hart as Roland, Ariana Greenblatt as Tiny Tina, Florian Munteanu as Krieg, Jamie Lee Curtis as Tannis, and Jack Black as Claptrap. Their journey follows Lilith's return to Pandora to find Atlas's missing daughter.
With full reviews pending and the film's theatrical release on August 9th, audiences will soon judge for themselves. Meanwhile, Gearbox has teased a new Borderlands game, adding another layer of anticipation for fans of the franchise.
