Get ready to dive into the thrilling world of the Predator franchise, because something big is brewing—and it’s bound to divide fans. Dan Trachtenberg, the mastermind behind Prey, is making history as the first director to helm not one, but two Predator films, and the latest installment, Predator: Badlands, is shaping up to be a game-changer. But here’s where it gets controversial: while Trachtenberg is juggling this live-action project, he’s also behind an animated anthology, Predator: Killer of Killers, which has already dropped on Hulu. Does this mean the franchise is spreading itself too thin, or is this the bold expansion fans have been craving? Let’s dig in.
Back in February 2024, it was announced that Trachtenberg would tackle Badlands, working from a screenplay by Prey scribe Patrick Aison, based on a story Trachtenberg himself crafted. The film is set for a November 7, 2025, theatrical release, and the hype train is officially in motion. We’ve already seen a teaser trailer and a full trailer, but a brand-new preview has just hit the web—and it’s a doozy. Check it out above, along with a sleek new poster and a batch of stills that offer a glimpse into this futuristic, high-stakes world.
Now, here’s the part most people miss: Predator: Badlands isn’t just another alien hunt. According to a casting call, the film is described as 'groundbreaking,' with one of its two main storylines exploring the complex bond between two sisters, Thia and Tessa, whose familial ties are pushed to the brink as they pursue conflicting paths. Set on a remote planet in the future, the story follows a young Predator outcast who forms an unlikely alliance with Thia (played by Elle Fanning) as they embark on a perilous quest for the ultimate adversary. But here’s the twist: Thia, a lab-raised genius with a reckless streak, has the Weyland-Yutani logo etched into her eyeballs—a detail that’s sure to spark theories.
Fanning’s dual role is no small feat. Thia is described as smart, witty, and naive, while her sister, Tessa, is a militant force driven by family goals, even if it means clashing with her twin. The casting call emphasized inclusivity, seeking a lead actress who identifies as female or non-binary, with an open ethnicity range. And this is where it gets even more intriguing: is the franchise doing enough to innovate, or are these character dynamics just a flashy distraction from the core Predator formula?
Produced by John Davis, Trachtenberg, Marc Toberoff, Ben Rosenblatt, and Brent O’Connor, the film also stars Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi as the lead Predator. With such a talented team behind it, Predator: Badlands is poised to redefine the franchise—but will it live up to the hype? And more importantly, does the Predator universe need this much expansion, or is it losing its focus?
What’s your take? Are you excited to see Predator: Badlands on the big screen, or do you think the franchise is biting off more than it can chew? Let us know in the comments below—and don’t forget to check out that new poster and stills while you’re here. This is one conversation you won’t want to miss!
