Borderlands Actress Cate Blanchett Explains Why She’s in the Film

Fans of the Borderlands series are on the fence about the upcoming live-action film. While the budget seems large enough to bring the franchise’s world to life, the cast doesn’t seem to fit the bill, with Kevin Hart playing Roland and Cate Blanchett playing Lilith–both of which seem like strange decisions by the studio. (However, Jack Black playing Claptrap? That sounds about right.)

In a new interview with Empire, Blanchett explained her reason for appearing in the film, much of which had to do with the pandemic.

“I was spending a lot of time in the garden, using the chainsaw a little too freely. My husband said, ‘This film could save your life,’” said the Australian actress. Blanchett also explained that she enjoys “crazy” roles that viewers wouldn’t expect her to take.

To prepare for the role, Blanchett picked up a PlayStation 5 and jumped into the games with her husband. “My thumbs can barely control a phone, but I bought a PS5 and we played each other,” she said. “I wanted to know the limits of the game and what fans loved about the character. I got really absorbed in that whole world. The cosplayers. The YouTube make-up tutorials.”

Other odd members of the cast include Jamie Lee Curtis, Ariana Greenblatt, and Gina Gershon. The film adaptation was originally announced in 2015, meaning that almost a decade of work has gone into its production. It’s unclear whether audiences will respond well to this version of their favorite characters.

The live-action Borderlands film will hit theaters on August 9, 2024.