In defense of Doom (the movie)
PC Gamer
by Jody Macgregor February 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Doom (the movie) has often been unfairly criticized for its over-the-top action and lowbrow humor, frequently compared to other poorly received films like Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance and Assassin's Creed. However, the article argues that Doom deserves more credit for its unapologetic embrace of dumb fun, which makes it a guilty pleasure rather than a disaster. The film leans heavily on its influences, particularly Aliens and Predator, but manages to carve out its own niche with its self-aware humor and intentionally ridiculous character introductions. From Sarge's shirtless entrance to Portman's greasy hair that repels water, the movie revels in its absurdity, creating a distinctly four-beer-movie vibe.
The plot follows a group of marines sent to Mars to investigate an archaeological dig gone wrong. While the explanation for the demons is scientifically flimsy—pseudoscience about ancient alien experiments—it intentionally avoids the supernatural angle seen in Event Horizon. This choice, while divisive among fans who care deeply about the Doom lore, allows the movie to lean into its campy horror roots. The article highlights how the film uses Christian themes as metaphors, much like the original Doom games, but with a more playful and irreverent tone.
Despite its flaws, the movie manages to deliver a chaotic yet entertaining ride, blending action, humor, and nostalgia for classic sci-fi/horror tropes. Its characters, from the overly confident Sarge to the brooding Reaper, are archetypes of the genre, each with their own quirks and backstories that add depth to the proceedings. While it may not be a masterpiece, Doom (the movie) captures the essence of what makes B-movies so beloved: its willingness to embrace its own cheesiness and deliver a fun, over-the-top experience.
For fans of gaming, this matters because the article ties the movie back to its roots as an adaptation of the iconic Doom series. While it may not perfectly capture the game's essence, it exists in a space where it acknowledges its debt to the source material while carving out its own identity. The film's humor and self-awareness make it a cult classic in its own right,
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Originally published on PC Gamer on 2/22/2026