I knew that when the premise for “Predator: Badlands” was first announced, along with the trailer, it would probably divide fans. Longtime followers of the franchise are used to gory kills and seeing the Predator on the other side of the fight, which is part of the franchise’s recurring horror element. This time, however, the Predator is our protagonist, and the playing field feels completely different.
After 2018’s “The Predator,” it was clear the franchise needed a fresh direction, and Dan Trachtenberg stepped in with a significant creative role. Since then, we’ve had the incredible “Prey” (my personal favorite “Predator” movie) and “Killer of Killers,” and now “Predator: Badlands” joins his lineup of successful entries.
“Badlands” is certainly a departure from Trachtenberg’s other movies, and the PG‑13 rating could concern fans, but the bold approach and fun twists prove to be a pleasant surprise. Not to mention its inclusion of Weyland-Yutani, a shadowy organization from my favorite sci-fi franchise, “Alien,” makes it especially intriguing.
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Arriving in theaters today, “Predator: Badlands” may not follow the exact formula of its predecessors, but it’s a bold, inventive entry that puts the Predator front and center while delivering fresh thrills and surprises. Here’s why it’s worth joining the hunt.
Alix Blackburn
Senior Streaming Writer
I’ve always loved sci-fi, so getting to attend early screenings and share honest reviews is one of my favorite things. As a longtime “Predator” fan, I’m always excited when the hunt begins again.
‘Predator: Badlands’ is a fresh hunt full of surprises and stunning action
(Image credit: 20th Century Studios)
Within the first two minutes of “Predator: Badlands,” I knew it would be one of the most stunning movies in the franchise, and by the time the credits rolled, I was even more certain. Saying this is a visual treat would be an understatement, and Trachtenberg clearly knows how to craft a world that honors the core DNA of the franchise while taking us somewhere new.
On a dusty planet, we meet Dek (Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi), an outcast Predator shunned by his clan for being seen as the weakest link. The only way to earn his place among the Yautja is to complete his first hunt and bring back a worthy trophy. His brother believes he deserves the chance to prove himself, earn his invisibility cloak, and claim his spot in the clan. Of course, Dek chooses one of the most formidable creatures to hunt, and after crash-landing on its planet, he has no choice but to go through with it.
(Image credit: 20th Century Studios)
“Badlands” first plays out similarly to previous installments, with the Predator stalking through the jungle and using an impressive arsenal of weapons and armor to fight off some nasty creatures. Things really change when he meets Thia (Elle Fanning), a damaged Weyland android caught in some vines, who offers to help the Yautja on his journey across the dangerous planet. The movie then chooses to focus on their unlikely alliance and explores how even non-human characters can experience human-like emotions.
It’s important to note that “Predator: Badlands” is set in the distant future, a deliberate choice by director Trachtenberg to tell a self-contained story far removed from the timelines of both the “Predator” and “Alien” franchises. While some fans might be disappointed that it doesn’t tie directly to other recent entries, Trachtenberg’s approach is refreshing. By focusing on crafting a standalone experience, his main goal was to deliver a compelling, accessible movie that works on its own, without relying on franchise continuity.
(Image credit: 20th Century Studios)
In this case, it works remarkably well, and “Badlands” turns into a thrilling, surprisingly emotional ride. The idea of a Predator teaming up with an android to take down the planet’s creature (known as Kalisk), combined with Thia’s determination to find her legs (literally) after a brutal attack, might sound outrageous to some fans, but it’s a spectacle that simply works on screen. More than anything, it has heart, and you can’t help but root for the pair as Dek carries Thia on his back, proving you don’t need legs to make a big impact.
The only things that keep this from surpassing Trachtenberg’s other movies are an overreliance on humor in certain scenes and a mishmash of CGI monsters and action sequences that sometimes pull you out of the moment. That said, it’s still a visual treat, and some sequences (especially those featuring the neon swords) had me watching in awe. Hardcore “Predator” fans, however, may find some of the cheesier jokes annoying.
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Verdict: ‘Predator: Badlands’ is a welcome addition to the franchise
(Image credit: 20th Century Studios)
I have a feeling “Predator: Badlands” will divide fans with its bold approach, but I hope they can appreciate what the movie is trying to achieve. There’s also a lot more going on in the story, though I won’t say more to preserve the experience.
While this fresh installment carries a PG‑13 rating, it is still a violent movie. Since there are no humans, the blood is white rather than red, and the carnage is mostly between alien creatures. But I can assure you the franchise’s signature action and brutality are still very much on display. Its vibrant visuals and heavy use of CGI give it the feel of a modern blockbuster, yet at its core, the movie retains a thoughtful, almost handcrafted quality that gives it real heart.
“Predator: Badlands” seems focused on being the best version of yet another franchise installment. If that requires adjusting and softening the familiar branding, it does so without hesitation.
Watch “Predator: Badlands” in theaters now
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