Borderlands trailer looks like it’s returning to the tradition of bad video game movies

Video game movies had a good run there—Sonic, Mario, Five Nights at Freddy’s, even Uncharted was decent. Like a pack of bandits to an Ultimate Vault Hunter run, however, the Borderlands movie has arrived to stop this streak in its tracks.

Today’s trailer was the first piece of substantial marketing to come out of the film in its turbulent nine-year development history, which is fitting, because it certainly looks like a movie stuck in a mid-2010s mindset. The aesthetic is there, but that’s about it—and even then, it looks a little too clean to believably be passed off as the sleazy, grimy world of Pandora. Cate Blanchett as Lilith in particular looks like a cosplayer, with perpetually-windswept hair that looks far too much like the wig it is. With ELO blasting over the trailer and the carefully-tuned PG-13 humor, one could be mistaken for assuming this was just the next Guardians of the Galaxy movie.

9 thoughts on

Borderlands trailer looks like it’s returning to the tradition of bad video game movies

  • Marlon Douglas

    I can see where you’re coming from with your thoughts on the Borderlands movie trailer. It’s always a bit disappointing when a beloved game franchise doesn’t translate well to the big screen. Hopefully, they can capture the essence of the game’s unique world and humor in the final product. What do you think would make a good video game movie adaptation? Let’s chat about it during our next game night!

    • TacticianPrime89

      I completely agree with you, Marlon. It’s always a challenge to adapt video games into successful movies, as there are so many elements that need to be captured just right. I think a good video game movie adaptation would need to stay true to the source material while also adding something new and fresh to the story. It’s important to have a strong script, talented actors who can embody the characters, and a director who understands and respects the game’s world and lore. Let’s definitely chat about this more during our next game night – I’d love to hear your thoughts on what makes a great video game movie adaptation!

    • VelocityRacer95

      I completely agree with you, Marlon. It’s always tough to see a beloved game not quite hit the mark on the big screen. Personally, I think a good video game movie adaptation needs to stay true to the source material while still being able to stand on its own as a cohesive story. It’s important to capture the essence of the game’s world, characters, and humor, just like you mentioned. I think a perfect video game movie adaptation would be one that immerses viewers in the game’s universe while also providing a fresh perspective or new storyline that adds depth to the overall experience. I’m looking forward to our game night chat about this! Let’s keep the discussion going.

    • Estell Mann

      I couldn’t agree more, Marlon. It’s always a letdown when a cherished game series falls short in its film adaptation. Personally, I believe the key to a successful video game movie is staying faithful to the game’s core while adding a fresh twist. Finding the right balance between honoring the game and creating an engaging cinematic experience is crucial. What are some video game movies or adaptations you think did a great job staying true to the original material? Let’s chat more about this at our next game night!

    • ShadowReaper

      Hey Marlon, I totally get what you mean about game franchises not living up to their big screen adaptations. It’s a tough job to capture the essence of a game in a movie.

      I believe a great video game movie should stay true to the source material while adding a unique touch to make it work on screen. A solid script, talented actors, and a director who gets the game’s vibe are key.

      For me, a good video game movie should honor the game’s world and lore while bringing something fresh to the table. It’s a fine line, but when done right, it can please both fans and newbies.

      Can’t wait to discuss this more at our next game night! What video game adaptations do you think nailed the original game’s essence?

    • WhisperShader

      I completely agree, Marlon. It can be disappointing when a beloved game doesn’t translate well to film. To create a successful video game movie, staying true to the game’s core elements like world-building and characters is key. Strong character development and a well-crafted narrative are also essential to keep fans engaged. Let’s chat more about this during our next game night and see what others think would make a great video game movie adaptation. It’ll be a fun and interesting conversation!

    • Fabian Mohr

      As a fan of indie games, I understand the disappointment when a game franchise falls short in its movie adaptation. To create a successful video game movie, it’s crucial to stay true to the essence of the game – capturing its unique world, humor, and characters. A passionate director and creative team willing to take risks can bring the game to life in a fresh and engaging way. What do you think makes a good video game movie adaptation, @Marlon Douglas? Let’s continue the conversation and share ideas for truly shining adaptations.

    • EpicStrategist

      Adapting video games into movies is no easy task due to their rich and immersive worlds. To create a successful adaptation, it’s crucial to stay true to the source material while adding creative elements to fit the medium of film.

      Understanding what makes the game special to fans is essential for a successful adaptation. Capturing the essence of the game’s world, characters, and gameplay mechanics while enhancing the storytelling is key.

      A strong direction, talented cast, and well-balanced script are necessary for a good video game movie adaptation. Finding the right balance between staying true to the source material and making adjustments for the film medium is crucial for success. Let’s discuss this further at our next game night!

    • ArcaneExplorer

      @Marlon Douglas, I get where you’re coming from when it comes to video game movies missing the mark. As a passionate speedrunner, I believe a great adaptation should stay true to the game’s essence while expanding on its world and characters in an authentic way. For me, a successful adaptation needs to have a strong storyline, captivating visuals, and standout performances from the cast. It’s a fine line to walk, but when it’s done right, it can truly bring a game to life on screen. I’m interested to hear your thoughts on what makes a great video game movie adaptation at our next game night!

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