Borderline

Screenwriter Jimmy Warden takes the lead in directing a film he wrote himself, one that possesses a small charm as this ironic play about obsession and fame unfolds. He takes advantage of a cast that elevates the cast and makes the most of it, even if we encounter some less successful moments than others.

A cleverly thought-out thriller that uses dark humor as its mainstay, creating a film that, all things considered, generates good feelings due to its hilarious moments, which are quite accomplished and add that unexpected touch of affection for the film. To this end, we find a cast that works perfectly in coordination with its script, and the one who shines the most is Ray Nicholson, who is shown with the gestural and charismatic brilliance of his father, Jack. Meanwhile, there is a cast of well-chosen supporting actors and a Samara Weaving who isn't the Queen we know, but whose presence alone is enough to embellish the film.

It has many surprises as we delve into its story, and it truly captivates you with truly unexpected moments, as well as certain scenes that its director pulls out of his hat, creating unforgettable moments that are worth discovering upon seeing. While it may not have what it takes to end up being one of those great films of 2025, it has the merit of being a truly entertaining hit that grows endearing and overcomes its weaker moments thanks to a cast that substantially elevates those moments with charisma and talent.

A film unlike any other that brings out the best in its director, who has interesting things to show and deserves to be taken into account. It's not a perfect film, but it's worth giving it its time and seeing. It has truly worthwhile moments that will make you laugh out loud.

Borderline certainly has its moments, especially in the first and second acts, with events unfolding at a rapid pace and characters getting established. I could easily buy Samara Weaving as a 90s pop star (who needed to sing a lot more in the film), Ray Nicholson as a romantic stalker-sociopath (man, this guy's got the presence and the "killer" smile!), and Eric Dane as a bodyguard (somehow, the protagonist?). Alba Baptista also gets a notably wacky role. The performances are pretty good, the lighting choices are great, and the colour palette is interesting. And oh yes, I really enjoyed the soundtrack.

What doesn't hit a home-run, for me, is basically the watered-down third act (..even when there are enough stabbings and some darkly funny moments). The film desperately needed more of Ray Nicholson than the rest, but the man simply chews up the scenery whenever he's present. The showdown between Samara Weaving and Alba Baptista was enjoyable. It's just that the film can't entirely stick the landing in terms of its tonality, thereby not ending up as memorable given the potential we see early on. Also, they didn't give the romance angle (between Sofia & Rhodes) any real build-up, and it ends up looking weak as hell.

"Borderline" had the ingredients to be something truly special, but instead, it settles for being just fine. The film teases a bold and sharp-edged narrative, yet it never fully embraces its potential, leaving an overall experience that is enjoyable in parts but frustratingly uneven.

The movie struggles with pacing. Several scenes drag on far longer than necessary, turning initially amusing or interesting moments into awkward stretches that overstay their welcome. More than once, I found myself thinking, "Why is this scene still going? It was funny a minute ago, but now it's just uncomfortable." This inconsistent rhythm makes the film feel sluggish at times, dampening its impact.

While the humor worked for me in many places-thanks to my appreciation for dark, offbeat comedy-it might not land for everyone. The film walks a fine line between being cleverly absurd and just feeling directionless. There are glimpses of brilliance in the writing, but they often get buried under scenes that lack focus or feel like they're stalling for time.

On the positive side, I really liked the character of Penny. Her dialogue, delivery, and presence (even if minimal) add energy to the film, making it feel brighter and more engaging whenever she's on screen. Her wit and charisma create some of the film's best moments.

Overall, "Borderline" could have been so much more. It had the potential to be a sharp, biting dark comedy, but instead, it settles for being intermittently amusing and frustratingly uneven. It's a film that I wanted to love but could only like-and just barely.

Not the best, far from the worst. But in the age where everything is being recycled and there seems to be an utter lack of creativity, this was something a bit clever. Its focus on mental health was done in an intentional way, and the 90's styling and music was a nice addition. Overall, decent movie to pass the time and if you're looking for an Oscar award winner well this isn't it, but just some 90's glam fun and a quirky unique film then this could be for you.

This film starts out okay, with a great cast, decent acting, and a premise that one feels might be a pretty entertaining black comedy... but the whole thing doesn't really amount to anything.

The writing here feels improvised, like random wacky and edgy ideas are being thrown into a blender to hopefully result in a crazy modern cult favourite.

You can almost hear somebody wetting themselves at jokes that your uncle might tell at a party that no-one laughs at, or like an SNL sketch that never made the cut and was not broadcast.

The confidence in this material to produce and release this film seems as delusional as the title character.

It's probably not as bad to other viewers as it is to me, but sometimes disappointment in something I thought was going to be great feels like I'm being ripped off or something.