In Borderlands, director Eli Roth brings the popular video game to life with an all-star cast, including Cate Blanchett, Kevin Hart, Jamie Lee Curtis, and Jack Black. However, despite the Oscar-winning talent, the film struggles to capture the unpredictable excitement of the game, delivering a predictable and generic sci-fi action comedy.

Photo: Borderlands (2024)/Lionsgate – Filmdb.co.uk

Borderlands is known for its “looter shooter” gameplay, where players seek valuable treasures across the planet Pandora. Unfortunately, the film adaptation fails to replicate this thrill, leaving fans of the game disappointed by its lack of surprises.

Photo: Borderlands (2024)/Lionsgate – Filmdb.co.uk

For those unfamiliar with the Borderlands franchise, the film might feel like a formulaic space adventure, with a motley crew of characters battling their way through enemies on a distant planet. While it tries to emulate the vibe of movies like Guardians of the Galaxy, it falls short in attitude and style.

Cate Blanchett in Borderlands film, featuring a sci-fi adventure adaptation
Photo: Borderlands (2024)/Lionsgate – Filmdb.co.uk

Despite the high-profile cast, including Blanchett as Lilith and Curtis as Tannis, the movie struggles with its script and humor, resulting in a lackluster experience. Even with Roth’s attempts at self-aware humor, the film’s jokes mostly miss the mark, and the story itself feels uninspired.

Borderlands Fan Event at TCL Chinese Theatre Interviews

The film’s biggest issue lies in its predictability, which undercuts the essence of what makes Borderlands unique. By the time the plot reaches its conclusion, the treasure hunt feels more like a chore than an adventure, leaving the audience unengaged and uninterested in the final reveal.

Blanchett’s talent is evident, but even she can’t elevate the film beyond its generic and disappointing nature.

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