Lionsgate’s upcoming feature adaptation of Gearbox Software’s Borderlands teaches us two important things: First, TV shows are way better platforms for live-action video game adaptations. Second, just keep Eli Roth away from all future movie adaptations of all popular video game franchises. We still can’t digest why Lionsgate chose Roth to direct ‘Borderlands’. Any other director would have done a way better job than him. Early reactions to the film were highly negative. And now, its RT score has just made things worse.
Eli Roth’s adaptation of ‘Borderlands’ has debuted with a disastrous “rotten” score of 0%, based on 10 critic reviews. Obviously, the score will rise by some percentage after its worldwide release. But the movie could be on its way to becoming the lowest-rated video game adaptation of all time.
Roth had the budget ($115-120 million), the support from Lionsgate, and the cast stacked with world-class talents, led by the Academy Award-winning actress, Cate Blanchett. What went wrong? Well, more reviews will certainly clear the picture. But based on the film’s first reactions, we can easily blame Roth’s poor direction for turning ‘Borderlands’ into complete trash. This scenario will adversely impact the movie’s BO performance, that’s for sure.
Roth’s strength lies in the realms of horror and slasher films, genres that have defined his career trajectory. From the creepy confines of “Cabin Fever” to the gruesome depths of the “Hostel” franchise, his filmography is predominantly steeped in these ghastly territories. While these films might entertain to a degree, they hardly qualify as cinematic gems or masterpieces.
Apart from being a critical failure, Borderlands is on its way to becoming a box office disaster as well, unless some sort of miracle saves it. You guys can catch it in theatres on August 9 (at your own risk). Stay tuned for more updates.