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.

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.

I'm starting to think Jimmy Warden films are not for me. I haven't enjoyed anything I've seen of his to date. His films seem to find an awkward middle ground between serious and humour, and instead of being the best of both worlds, it's the worst of both and just becomes painful to get through.

That's how I found 'Borderline'. I just couldn't find any element of it to grip on to. When it's trying to be funny, it is rarely funny. When it's trying to be serious, it comes across very flat and uninteresting. And when it trying to be stylish and crafty, it just doesn't work.

The one thing I will give it credit for is some good song choices along the way. Otherwise this one was a complete miss for me. A very generous 4/10.

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.

Jimmy Warden's directorial debut, Borderline, attempts to fuse a home-invasion thriller with dark comedy, but the result is a tonal mess that never quite finds its footing. The film, set in the 1990s, follows a pop star (Samara Weaving) whose mansion is invaded by a delusional, sociopathic fan (Ray Nicholson). While the premise has potential, the script oscillates wildly between genuinely tense moments and jarringly misplaced attempts at humor, often undercutting the very suspense it tries to build. Nicholson delivers a committed performance, channeling a certain unsettling charisma, but the character is too cartoonish to be truly menacing. Samara Weaving is, as always, a magnetic presence, but she is often left to react to the film's chaotic and nonsensical events. Eric Dane is largely wasted in a supporting role. The film's biggest flaw is its inability to decide what it wants to be, resulting in a confusing and ultimately unmemorable experience.

Is it worth watching? No, it's a frustratingly inconsistent film that fails to live up to the promise of its cast and premise.