Predator: Badlands

REVIEW:

With Dan Trachtenberg returning after the hugely successful Prey and Predator: Killer of Killers, I was excited to see where he took the franchise next. In my Prey review, I expressed my interest in exploring more of the greatest warrior groups such as samurai, Vikings, or gladiators, but Predator: Badlands completely flips that idea on its head. Instead of humans, we’re transported to an alien world where the Predator becomes the central character, hunting a deadly creature in hopes of returning home victorious. The concept alone is bold, and it’s safe to say Trachtenberg hasn’t played it safe here.

The best description I can give this movie is unique. It’s a departure from anything we’ve seen in the series before, yet it still captures the essence of what makes Predator exciting. Watching the creature we’ve feared for decades become the protagonist is both fascinating and disorienting. The inclusion of the Predator’s language, combined with Elle Fanning’s communication with the creature, adds a surprising emotional depth. It allows for moments of understanding between species that feel authentic rather than forced, and it gives the audience an engaging way to connect with these non-human characters.

That said, I do prefer the classic Predator setup with humans being hunted by the galaxy’s ultimate predator. The tension, fear, and primal survival instinct of those movies hit in a different way. While Badlands offers something fresh, it leans more toward the sci-fi action blockbuster territory than horror-infused thriller. It’s bigger, louder, and more visually ambitious, but not as intimate or suspenseful as Prey or the 1987 original. I thoroughly enjoyed it, but I do hope this one remains a standalone experiment rather than a new direction for the franchise.

Because of the absence of humans, Predator: Badlands is notably less gory than its predecessors. No humans means no blood, at least not the red kind. The film carries a 12A rating, but don’t let that fool you; it’s still filled with carnage. Alien blood splatters, and the synthetic circulatory fluid from Weyland-Yutani androids flows freely. If this movie swapped green and silver fluid for red, it would easily be one of the goriest in the series. The decision to make it accessible to a younger audience may divide fans, but it shows confidence in storytelling rather than shock value.

Speaking of Weyland-Yutani, their inclusion is one of the most exciting aspects of the movie. Their presence ties Predator: Badlands neatly to the Alien universe, teasing a potential revival of the AVP concept. It’s subtle enough not to dominate the plot but intriguing enough to spark speculation. The idea that synthetics are involved in observing or possibly influencing Predator culture opens up fascinating storytelling possibilities. It’s a smart move by Trachtenberg, one that rewards long-time fans without alienating newcomers.

Visually, this film is breathtaking. The CGI is top-tier, crafting an alien planet that feels both beautiful and hostile. The cinematography is truly cinematic, with wide landscape shots and intricate creature designs that deserve to be seen on the biggest screen possible. There’s a tangible sense of wonder in every frame, as if the filmmakers were unleashed creatively and asked, “What kind of lifeforms can we imagine next?” The creature design team must have had a field day building this ecosystem.

Elle Fanning delivers an impressive dual performance as synthetics Thia and Tesa. Thia accompanies the Predator on his journey, forming an unlikely bond that gives the film its emotional heartbeat, while Tesa serves as the film’s villain, embodying a ruthless logic that contrasts perfectly with her counterpart’s compassion. Seeing Fanning bring such distinct personalities to life in one film is a testament to her range and adds another compelling layer to the story.

Predator: Badlands ultimately offers something rare for a long-running franchise: a true experiment. It expands the mythology, gives us insight into the Predator’s homeworld and culture, and dares to shift perspective entirely. It might not be the gory, tension-filled hunt fans crave, but it’s an imaginative and fun detour that proves the series still has creative life in it. A visually stunning, high-concept blockbuster that feels more like a mature Avatar movie than a traditional Predator one, and while it’s a thrilling ride, here’s hoping the next instalment brings the blood-soaked hunts back to Earth.