Early critical reactions to Eli Roth's "Borderlands" film adaptation are overwhelmingly negative, despite a star-studded cast. While the performances of Cate Blanchett and Kevin Hart have garnered some praise, the film's overall reception is decidedly harsh.
Critics cite a weak script, unconvincing CGI, and dated humor as major flaws. One reviewer described it as "a complete mess," lacking any genuine emotional depth. Another called it a "baffling video game adaptation," highlighting the squandered potential of its impressive set design. The consensus points to a rushed and uninspired screenplay that fails to capitalize on the rich world-building opportunities presented by the source material.
However, not all reviews are entirely scathing. Some critics acknowledge the enjoyable performances of Blanchett and Hart, suggesting their charisma helps prevent the film from being a total disaster. One positive review even labels it a "fun PG-13 action movie," though heavily reliant on Blanchett's star power.
The film, following Lilith (Blanchett) as she searches for Atlas's missing daughter on Pandora, features a cast including Edgar Ramirez, Ariana Greenblatt, Florian Munteanu, Jamie Lee Curtis, and Jack Black. While the ensemble cast has been a source of anticipation, early reviews suggest it may not be enough to salvage the movie's critical reception.
With full reviews forthcoming and the film's theatrical release on August 9th, audiences will soon determine whether the critical consensus aligns with their own experience. Meanwhile, Gearbox's hints at a new Borderlands game add another layer to the anticipation surrounding the franchise.