Should I see it?: Borderlands

The much-anticipated film adaptation of the beloved video game franchise, “Borderlands,” has finally hit the big screen in 2024, aiming to capture the chaotic energy and quirky charm that fans have adored for years. Directed by Eli Roth, the movie boasts an ensemble cast featuring the likes of Cate Blanchett, Kevin Hart and the ever-entertaining Jack Black. While the film succeeds in some areas, particularly in character portrayals and nods to the source material, it falters in storytelling and visual execution, leaving audiences with mixed feelings. From the start, “Borderlands” attempts to immerse viewers in its dystopian, Mad Max-esque universe, swarming with outlandish characters and high-octane action. The franchise, with three mainline video game entries under its belt, provides a rich tapestry of lore and peculiarity that seems ripe for cinematic exploration. The film does justice to this expansive source material by introducing a world that’s chaotic yet intriguing, offering longtime fans the satisfaction of seeing their favorite game’s universe brought to life. One of the standout elements of the movie is the portrayal of Tiny Tina by actress Ariana Greenblatt. She encapsulates the essence of the character with remarkable authenticity, delivering a blend of manic energy, humor and surprising...