_Predator: Badlands_ Explores New Territory in the Franchise

“Predator: Badlands,” directed by Dan Trachtenberg, marks the latest installment in the long-running Predator franchise, which began in 1987. This film shifts the narrative focus from the traditional human protagonists to a young Yautja named Dek (Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi), who embarks on a quest to prove his worth by hunting the formidable Kalisk on the planet Genna. The film features Elle Fanning as Thia, a synthetic character from the Weyland-Yutani Corporation, who becomes an unlikely ally to Dek.

Deadline Hollywood

The film's plot revolves around Dek, the “weak” son of a Yautja chieftain, who is cast out by his father due to his perceived inadequacies. In a bid to reclaim his honor, Dek travels to Genna, a planet filled with deadly flora and fauna, to confront the Kalisk. The narrative intertwines themes of family betrayal and the formation of new bonds, as Dek teams up with Thia, who lacks legs but possesses valuable knowledge of the planet.

Variety Magazine

“Predator: Badlands” employs a blend of slapstick humor and intense violence, showcasing a unique visual style that includes bizarre creatures and treacherous landscapes. Critics note that the film's humor, particularly through Fanning's character, adds a refreshing element to the franchise. The film is rated PG-13, which has raised questions about its suitability given its violent content.

Associated Press

Dan Trachtenberg has emphasized the importance of character-driven storytelling, stating, “I wanted the link to be more subtle and less like 'grabbing action figures and smashing them together.'” Producer Ben Rosenblatt highlighted the organic integration of the Weyland-Yutani Corporation into the narrative, suggesting it provides a “spiritual connection” to the Alien franchise.

Deadline Hollywood

Despite some praise for its fresh approach, “Predator: Badlands” has faced criticism for its deviation from the franchise's roots. Some reviewers argue that humanizing the Predator character undermines the essence of the series. The film's reliance on humor and the portrayal of Dek as a sympathetic figure have been points of contention, with some feeling it detracts from the franchise's identity.

The Guardian

While many reviews commend Fanning's performance, some describe it as disjointed, attributing this to the film's narrative structure. There is also a debate regarding the film's rating, with critics questioning the appropriateness of a PG-13 rating for a film that features graphic violence.

Associated Press

Following the release of “Predator: Badlands,” discussions have emerged about the potential return of Arnold Schwarzenegger to the franchise. Trachtenberg has expressed interest in exploring further connections between the Predator and Alien universes, hinting at a larger narrative framework that could evolve in future installments.

Dan Trachtenberg Says MCU Inspired His Vision for the Predator Universe as AVP Connections Expand — GeekTyrant

• “grabbing action figures and smashing them together.” — Dan Trachtenberg, Director

Dan Trachtenberg says he wanted Predator: Badlands' connection to Alien to be "more elegant" than past universe movies, but that doesn't mean it won't "grow into a bigger thing"

• “The sheer pointlessness of everything that happens subtracts the oxygen and even Fanning’s imperishable star quality can’t save it.” — Critic

The Guardian

• “Obviously, the holy grail of Predator movies would be getting Arnold back in there.” — Ben Rosenblatt, Producer

Predator: Badlands Creators on Alien Crossover & Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Return

“Predator: Badlands” is set to release in theaters on November 7, 2025, and aims to redefine the franchise while expanding its mythology.

Variety Magazine