‘Borderlands’ Movie Absolutely Destroyed by the Critics, Debuted with a 0% Rotten Rating

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As a seasoned gamer with over two decades of experience under my belt, I’ve seen my fair share of video game adaptations that left us fans feeling disappointed and disillusioned. The hype surrounding the Borderlands movie was palpable, but alas, it seems that Eli Roth’s interpretation of this beloved franchise has fallen flat on its face.

A significant number of video game enthusiasts would recognize “Borderlands” as a highly cherished action game throughout history. At present, the collection boasts four primary games along with some side projects and collaborations. However, it’s clear that this series ranks among the most favored due to its widespread popularity.

Given the recent triumphs of video game adaptations, there’s been a strong call from fans for a Borderlands film. Excitingly, we now find out that the movie is releasing today. However, it appears that many fans are left feeling disillusioned, secretly wishing that the movie – particularly in its current format – had never been produced at all.

In anticipation of the U.S. debut of the Borderlands film on August 9, 2024, early critic reviews have been published for those who’ve had a sneak peek. Unfortunately, these critics have given the movie a harsh critique, and it appears that initial audience responses are also quite dissatisfied.

Under the guidance of director Eli Roth, the movie adaptation of “Borderlands” boasted an impressive ensemble cast. Notable names include Cate Blanchett portraying Lilith, Kevin Hart as Roland, Jack Black lending his voice to Claptrap, Edgar Ramírez playing Atlas, Ariana Greenblatt as Tiny Tina, Florian Munteanu as Krieg, Gina Gershon as Mad Moxxi, Jamie Lee Curtis as Dr. Patricia Tannis, Bobby Lee as Larry, Olivier Richters as Krom, Janina Gavankar as Commander Knoxx, Cheyenne Jackson as Jakobs, Charles Babalola as Hammerlock, Benjamin Byron Davis as Marcus, Steven Boyer as Scooter, Ryann Redmond as Ellie, and Harry Ford as Middleman. Despite this promising lineup, it appears that the movie’s performance was disappointingly poor, suggesting a flawed execution.

Initially, this movie received a dismal 0% fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes, which has subsequently improved to a still poor 7%. Meanwhile, the audience’s score remains low at 49%, indicating similar disappointment. Here’s what the reviewers have been commenting:

In the style of the pioneering first-person shooter game, “Borderlands,” the action unfolds on the desolate planet Pandora, which was once a thriving hub for an advanced alien civilization. However, it has since been taken over by ruthless looters and tough women with impressively endowed bras.

– Amy Nicholson, The New York Times

“Cate Blanchett, adorned in shimmering attire and sporting vibrant red tresses, should be acknowledged for her bravery in taking on a challenge that typically falls below her stature.”

– Benjamin Lee, Guardian

“This film isn’t typically appreciated by critics, as the phrase goes, and it may not appeal to many gamers, cinephiles, or virtually all living beings with carbon-based biology.”

– David Fear, Rolling Stone

“Because the characters lack depth and are more like simple video game characters rather than complex individuals, it’s hard for us to feel deeply concerned about their survival or who will reach the vault first.”

– David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter

“If well executed, self-deprecating humor can mask weak storytelling. Unfortunately, due to its proximity to Deadpool and Wolverine, Borderlands seems more like a disappointing dive after a high-flying stunt in those movies’ narratives.”

– Peter Debruge, Variety

“The most disappointing movie of Roth’s career, adding to the criticism faced by video games developed by AAA studios when adapted for the cinema.”

– Alison Foreman, IndieWire

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2024-08-09 16:44