Review by Jon Donnis
"Borderlands," the 2024 science fiction action comedy directed by Eli Roth and based on the popular video game series, presents a visually engaging yet narratively uneven experience. While the film successfully captures the chaotic spirit and aesthetic of its source material, its appeal is somewhat limited to those familiar with the games.
"Returning to her home planet Pandora, an infamous bounty hunter forms an unexpected alliance with a ragtag team of misfits. Together, they battle alien monsters and dangerous bandits to uncover one of Pandora's most explosive secrets."
Cate Blanchett's portrayal of Lilith, a hardened bounty hunter with a complex past, is a central highlight. Blanchett effortlessly commands the screen, blending charisma with an air of mystery that keeps the audience invested. Kevin Hart as Roland and Ariana Greenblatt as Tiny Tina provide solid performances, with Greenblatt particularly standing out in her dynamic and unpredictable role. The chemistry between Lilith and Tiny Tina serves as one of the film's most compelling aspects, offering moments of genuine connection amid the chaos.
Visually, "Borderlands" is a triumph. The film brilliantly recreates the distinctive, cel-shaded look of the games, immersing the viewer in the bizarre, hyper-stylised world of Pandora. The vibrant costumes, outlandish set designs, and relentless action sequences are all faithful to the game's aesthetic, providing fans with a visual treat. The incorporation of Claptrap, voiced by Jack Black, adds a layer of humour that fans will appreciate, though his wisecracking can occasionally border on grating for those less enamoured with the character.
However, the film's loyalty to its source material is both its greatest strength and its most significant weakness. While video game adaptations often falter by deviating too far from their origins, "Borderlands" leans heavily into its gaming roots, which may alienate viewers unfamiliar with the franchise. The plot, though serviceable, is laden with insider references and in-jokes that will likely leave non-gamers feeling lost or disconnected. The narrative's reliance on this insider knowledge creates a barrier to entry, making the film less accessible to a broader audience.
The humour, much like the game, is irreverent and often absurd, which works well in the context of the game but doesn't always translate seamlessly to the screen. The film's tone is reminiscent of "Starship Troopers" in its satirical approach, but it lacks the same sharpness in execution. "Borderlands" is meant to be taken with a grain of salt, it's silly, over-the-top, and unashamedly so. Yet, this very silliness can feel excessive at times, especially when the film seems unsure of whether it wants to be a genuine action-comedy or a full-blown parody.
Borderlands offers an enjoyable ride for fans of the game, with its vibrant visuals and strong performances, particularly from Blanchett and Greenblatt. However, its heavy reliance on the source material limits its broader appeal. For those unfamiliar with the games, the film may prove to be a confusing and somewhat alienating experience. Despite its flaws, "Borderlands" is one of the better video game adaptations to date, though that is not an overly high bar to clear. It is an entertaining watch if approached with the right expectations, earning a solid, if generous, 7 out of 10.
Out Now in Cinemas
