Dan Trachtenberg Provides New Details For ‘PREDATOR: BADLANDS’

The Predator franchise has long been defined by its unique heroes, from Arnold Schwarzenegger’s muscle-bound commando in the 1987 original to Amber Midthunder’s Comanche warrior in 2022’s critically acclaimed Prey. Now, director Dan Trachtenberg is taking the series in an unprecedented direction with Predator: Badlands, set to release in 2025. In this bold new installment, the Predator itself steps into the spotlight as the protagonist.

The Predator Takes Center Stage

“The creature is front and centre, leading the charge,” Trachtenberg told Empire magazine. “He’s still badass, but there’s something there that touches you emotionally, too.” This marks a significant departure from the franchise’s typical focus on human characters battling the iconic alien hunter. Instead, Badlands offers an emotionally complex depiction of the Predator, challenging audiences to root for a character they would normally fear.

Pushing Boundaries with a New Narrative Approach

Trachtenberg aims to continue the franchise’s tradition of breaking new ground. “The idea came from a desire to find another essential piece of cinema that does what Prey did spiritually — pushing the franchise’s boundaries, letting us root for a hero we rarely get to root for — but in a different way,” he explained. This fresh perspective transforms the Predator into a character that is both intimidating and relatable, offering fans a wholly new cinematic experience.

Elle Fanning’s Intriguing Role

While the Predator takes center stage, humans remain integral to the story. Elle Fanning plays a pivotal role — or rather, multiple roles. “She faced intense challenges on this movie — dramatically, physically, logistically,” Trachtenberg teased. Fanning’s versatility and commitment to the project promise to add depth to a story already brimming with innovation.

A Franchise Revolution

Predator: Badlands isn’t just a continuation of the series; it’s a revolution. With its alien-planet setting and an emotionally driven Predator lead, it stands poised to redefine what fans can expect from the franchise. And with Trachtenberg having secretly shot another Predator film alongside Badlands, there’s even more excitement on the horizon.

Get ready for a bold new chapter in the Predator franchise. With its innovative storytelling and powerhouse performances, Badlands is set to challenge expectations and captivate audiences. The countdown to 2025 begins now!