Predator: Badlands Trailer Reveals New Direction for Franchise

The anticipation surrounding director Dan Trachtenberg's sequel, 'Predator: Badlands,' has reached a crescendo with the release of its first trailer, showcasing a significant departure from the franchise's established norms. This installment follows a young and exiled Yautja, Dek, portrayed by Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi, who is on a quest for acceptance within his clan. Notably, the visuals hint at a potentially transformative narrative where the Predator takes on a protagonist role, breaking away from the typical antagonist portrayal. The film also introduces a new character, a Weyland-Yutani android named Thia, played by Elle Fanning, setting the stage for rich interactions within a narrative that promises to broaden the lore of the Predator and Alien universes. The trailer suggests an ambitious storyline set on the Predator's home world, emphasizing the species' culture and customs, while bringing new and unexplored threats into the fold. Trachtenberg cleverly utilizes the young and human-like portrayal of the new Predator to create empathy and establish a connection with the audience, positioning him as a relatable character rather than the formidable killing machine we have come to expect. This marks a calculated shift in storytelling that could either rejuvenate the franchise or alienate long-time fans, especially those who have grown attached to the traditional presentation of the Yautja as ruthless hunters. Critics and fans alike have already started to react, with some discussions revolving around the design choices for the new Predator and the implications of a protagonist that leans towards humanity, a move seen in recent cinematic trends. However, there’s excitement regarding the return of the franchise to theatrical releases after the streaming-only rollout of its predecessor, 'Prey.' With its scheduled November 7 release, 'Predator: Badlands' positions itself not only as a continuation of a beloved series but as a potential catalyst for its future, exploring fresh narratives and a deeper cultural exploration of its characters. The excitement surrounding this uniqueness stands in stark contrast to the franchise's previous entries, which have often been criticized for sticking to formulaic plots and characters.