“Borderline” is a new movie focusing on the obsessive, mentally unstable Paul, who is determined that he’s destined to marry pop sensation Sofia. He is willing to do whatever it takes to make this happen, including kidnapping and killing. It’s a very straightforward and narrow, cut-and-dry thriller.
But that’s not to say it doesn’t work for the movie, because it does. Had there not been a touch of pacing issues, this film would have gained more ground and attention than it currently does. It came out simultaneously via limited theatrical release in Los Angeles and to rent on Prime Video, and it has done well upon release. It doubled the money it cost to make, and had it received a wider release, this film would have vastly outperformed. Despite this, “Borderline” is an enjoyable thriller with standout acting performances.
“Borderline” (2025) Review: New To Rent At Home
Samara Weaving’s Rise To Fame
The film is carried by two good performances, but one really pushes the centerfold. Samara Weaving is our Sofia, a rich and beautiful pop star. Weaving has the personality for the role and the looks to boot. She’s cocky, and she knows how wealthy and popular she is. It’s a good role for Weaving, who has established herself as one of the better-known “scream queens” in the past five to ten years.
Nepotism Stardom On The Horizon
Playing opposite, there’s Ray Nicholson, the Paul of the film. I’m so glad that my first exposure to Nicholson’s acting was this movie. He’s creepy, deranged and dangerous, all while holding that signature Nicholson grin that his father made famous. For those unfamiliar, yes, this is Jack Nicholson’s son. This role channels many of the senior Nicholson’s early roles in the business, and you can tell that his charisma is just beginning to blossom. You can’t help but like the guy. When he smiles, it’s contagious, even when there are evil intentions behind those bright white teeth. It will be fun to see how his career goes, and I am excited to watch it.
Couldn’t Find The Correct Speed
As mentioned, the pacing is what throws viewers for a loop. It’s kind of all over the place. It starts quickly and grabs you in the opening scene with Nicholson and Eric Dane. It slows down a bit after and then speeds up again. If there had been more consistency, this would have been much more enjoyable and a huge surprise among 2025 films.
Overall, “Borderline” is a fun little thriller to burn 90 minutes. It’s much less on the horror side than people will call for, and I think that is okay. Had they leaned into the horror genre, this film wouldn’t hold the rawness that is palpable from Nicholson and Weaving. There are some tweaks that would’ve helped this, but I’d be a liar if I said I didn’t have fun watching it, and mainly watching Ray Nicholson.
“You put a Priest in a box?” – Penny
“No, I put a Pastor in a box. We’re Protestant.” – Paul
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