10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to Borderlands (2024)

Description: The Fifth Element and Borderlands both embrace a quirky, over-the-top sci-fi universe with vibrant visuals and eccentric characters. The film's mix of action, humor, and surreal world-building is similar to Borderlands' tone. Both also feature a motley crew of heroes on a mission to save the world.

Fact: Bruce Willis turned down the lead role in Armageddon for this film. The Diva's opera scene was performed by an actual opera singer. The film's costumes were designed by Jean-Paul Gaultier.

Description: Cowboy Bebop's mix of sci-fi, western, and noir elements is similar to Borderlands' genre-blending approach. Both feature a crew of bounty hunters with troubled pasts, navigating a chaotic universe. The show's stylish action and eclectic soundtrack mirror Borderlands' energetic vibe.

Fact: The show was heavily influenced by jazz and blues music. Each episode's title references a song or album. The series was initially a commercial failure in Japan but became a hit overseas.

Description: Firefly shares Borderlands' blend of sci-fi and western elements, creating a unique 'space western' vibe. Both feature a ragtag crew of misfits navigating a lawless frontier, with a mix of humor, action, and heart. The show's episodic adventures and morally gray characters are reminiscent of the chaotic, unpredictable world of Borderlands.

Fact: The show was canceled after only 14 episodes but gained a cult following. It spawned the movie Serenity (2005) to conclude the story. Creator Joss Whedon based the show on the idea of 'people who fought in the Civil War and then moved out west.'

Description: Alita: Battle Angel shares Borderlands' cyberpunk aesthetic and themes of augmentation and identity. Both feature a strong, unconventional heroine in a dystopian world filled with violence and eccentric characters. The film's blend of high-tech and gritty realism mirrors Borderlands' unique style.

Fact: James Cameron was originally set to direct. Alita's eyes were made larger to stay true to the manga. The motorball sequences were inspired by roller derby.

Description: Westworld's blend of western and sci-fi elements, along with its exploration of artificial intelligence and human nature, aligns with Borderlands' themes. Both feature lawless frontiers where anything goes, and the line between man and machine is blurred. The show's intricate world-building is reminiscent of Borderlands' lore.

Fact: The show is based on the 1973 film of the same name. Anthony Hopkins' character was originally written as a one-season role. The park's logo is a nod to Da Vinci's Vitruvian Man.

Description: Like Borderlands, The Book of Eli is set in a post-apocalyptic wasteland where survival is key. Both stories follow a lone warrior on a mission, blending action with deeper themes of faith and morality. The film's desolate, sun-scorched visuals align with Borderlands' harsh environments.

Fact: Denzel Washington trained in kung fu for his role. The entire film was color-graded to have a sepia tone. Gary Oldman's character was inspired by Joseph Stalin.

Description: Dune and Borderlands both explore vast, dangerous worlds with rich lore and political intrigue. The desert planet of Arrakis mirrors Pandora's hostile environment, and both feature resource wars and powerful factions. The epic scale and visual grandeur of Dune are akin to Borderlands' cinematic ambitions.

Fact: Timothée Chalamet went on a strict diet to play Paul Atreides. The sandworms were created using a combination of practical effects and CGI. The film was shot in IMAX for a more immersive experience.

Description: Similar to Borderlands (2024), Mad Max: Fury Road is a high-octane, post-apocalyptic action film with a strong emphasis on vehicular combat and survival in a desolate wasteland. Both films feature a gritty, chaotic aesthetic and a rebellious, anti-authoritarian tone. The visual style of Fury Road, with its vibrant yet harsh landscapes, mirrors the colorful yet brutal world of Borderlands.

Fact: The film was shot using mostly practical effects, with minimal CGI. Tom Hardy replaced Mel Gibson as Max Rockatansky. The movie won six Academy Awards, including Best Film Editing and Best Production Design.

Description: Riddick and Borderlands both center on a lone, antiheroic figure surviving in a hostile, alien world. The films share a gritty, survivalist tone and feature dangerous creatures and mercenaries. Riddick's morally ambiguous protagonist is similar to the chaotic heroes of Borderlands.

Fact: Vin Diesel funded part of the film himself. The movie was a return to the franchise's R-rated roots. Riddick's eyeshine was achieved with practical contacts.

Description: Guardians of the Galaxy and Borderlands both feature a ragtag group of outlaws with a penchant for humor and action. The films share a colorful, irreverent tone and a focus on found family dynamics. The eclectic mix of characters and offbeat humor are hallmarks of both.

Fact: Chris Pratt lost 60 pounds for his role. The soundtrack, 'Awesome Mix Vol. 1,' went platinum. Rocket Raccoon was mocapped by director James Gunn's brother.