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The long-running sci-fi series continues with “Predator: Badlands.” The new film, directed by Dan Trachtenberg, will hit theaters in November 2025.
The plot of “Predator: Badlands”: The Predator becomes the main character
The “Predator” franchise is one of Hollywood’s longest-running sci-fi series, dating back to the 1987 original starring Arnold Schwarzenegger. Following the acclaimed prequel “Prey” (2022), the series is now breaking new and bold ground with “Predator: Badlands.” The new film not only deepens the mythology of the Predators, but also puts one of these hunters in the spotlight as the central character for the first time.
- “Predator: Badlands” centers on the young Yautja warrior Dek. Dek is an ambitious but rebellious warrior of his clan.
- After a fatal mistake, Dek is cast out by the Council of Elders. To restore his honor and prove to his people that he is a worthy hunter, he embarks on a dangerous solo mission.
- His destination is a remote, harsh planet in the Outer Rim territories of a dystopian future. This is a kind of intergalactic “Badlands” region, characterized by brutal colonial structures and deadly creatures.
- There, Dek encounters Thia, a highly advanced android with a human appearance. Thia was sent by the Weyland-Yutani Corporation, a well-known name from the Alien universe, to secure biological samples. But what awaits her there exceeds anything she was originally programmed for.
- Together, Dek and Thia now face an overwhelming enemy that not only tests their abilities, but also raises moral questions. For example: What does honor mean? What makes a creature a beast and what makes a hero?
- A real bonus for fans: the film contains direct references to the Alien franchise. The Weyland-Yutani Corporation was once Ripley’s adversary in the Alien films and plays a central role here once again.
- In terms of the film’s locations, it’s no coincidence that it’s called Badlands. Instead of futuristic cities or jungle landscapes, you can expect an atmospheric mix of science fiction and western: vast, dusty plains, abandoned industrial sites, and rough settlements on the edge of known galaxies.
The cast of “Predator: Badlands” is a mix of young talent and familiar names.
It’s not just the plot of “Predator: Badlands” that has us excited for its November release. The cast also points to a promising adaptation.
- Dek is played by Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi. The New Zealand actor has mainly appeared in TV productions to date and is new to the big screen.
- Elle Fanning plays the role of Thia. The US actress is known from films such as Super 8 and The Neon Demon. In 2025, she will also appear in Death Stranding 2. In “Predator: Badlands,” she brings a mixture of vulnerability and strength to the character.
- Although the full cast list has not yet been released, it is known that the film tells an intimate story focusing on the relationship between Thia and Dek. The supporting roles are expected to be filled by talented actors who complement the dark and complex world of “Predator: Badlands.”
- Dan Trachtenberg is directing the film, as he did for Prey (2022). Patrick Aison, co-writer of Prey, is also reuniting with Trachtenberg to develop the story for Badlands.
