Borderland Movie Reviews Rip It To Shreds

Eli Roth's highly anticipated Borderlands movie is poised for theatrical release, but early critical reception paints a bleak picture. Read on for a summary of initial reviews and what audiences can expect.

A Disappointing Adaptation?

The live-action Borderlands adaptation, premiering this week across the US, has garnered overwhelmingly negative reviews. Critics cite weak humor, unconvincing CGI, and a lackluster script as major flaws.

Edgar Ortega of Loud and Clear Reviews tweeted, "Borderlands feels like what an out-of-touch executive thinks the ‘cool kids’ find appealing. No earnest character moments, just tired, dated quips. It's not even 'so bad it's good,' just a mess."

Darren Movie Reviews (Movie Scene Canada) called it "a baffling video game adaptation," praising the potential world-building but criticizing the rushed, dull screenplay and the cheap-looking CGI despite impressive set design.

Despite the overwhelmingly negative response, some critics found glimmers of positivity. Kurt Morrison noted Cate Blanchett and Kevin Hart's performances as saving the film from complete disaster, though he doubts it will find a wide audience. The Hollywood Handle offered a more positive, albeit qualified, assessment: "Borderlands is a fun PG-13 action movie. It relies heavily on Cate Blanchett's star power, and she delivers."

Despite initial skepticism from fans of the game, the film boasts a star-studded cast. Re-announced in 2020 after a period of inactivity, the project has finally reached the screen.

As major publications release their full reviews in the coming days, audiences will have their chance to judge for themselves when Borderlands hits theaters on August 9th. Meanwhile, Gearbox has hinted at a new Borderlands game.