The Predator Returns in New ‘Badlands’ Trailer — and the Chase Is Deadlier Than Ever
The hunt is on again, and this time it’s heading to the Badlands. A new trailer for Predator: Badlands has dropped, giving fans a glimpse of the next big step in the iconic sci-fi action series. Directed by Dan Trachtenberg, the film will bring a fresh take on the Predator universe when it hits theaters on November 7, through 20th Century Studios.
Set in the distant future on a remote planet, the story follows a young Predator named Dek who has been shunned by his clan for being too small.
Alone and searching for purpose, Dek finds an unexpected ally in Thia, a legless synth created by the Weyland-Yutani Corporation. Together, they set off on a dangerous quest across the harsh planet to face what’s described as the ultimate enemy.
Watch the new trailer for Predator: Badlands. Experience the film only in theaters and IMAX November 7. pic.twitter.com/fDjUBg55aM
— 20th Century Studios (@20thcentury) October 6, 2025
Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi plays Dek, marking the first time a Predator has been the main hero rather than the monster being hunted. Elle Fanning stars alongside him in multiple roles, including Thia, as well as Tessa, a flawless Wey-Yu synth who stands against Dek and Thia. Fanning also plays several other Wey-Yu models in the film.
Director Dan Trachtenberg, who previously helmed Prey and Predator: Killer of Killers, described Badlands as a standalone story that dives deeper into the Predators’ world and culture. He mentioned that the movie was inspired by a mix of art, westerns, and survival films, saying it blends sci-fi with a gritty, almost mythic tone.
One of the unique things about Badlands is the inclusion of a full Predator language, both spoken and written, developed by the same linguist who created the Naʼvi language for Avatar. Trachtenberg said the new film aims to make audiences see the Predator species in a new light, focusing on their values, traditions, and inner struggles.
Marvel Comics is also expanding the story with a one-shot prequel comic written by Ethan Sacks and illustrated by Elvin Ching, with cover art by Juan Ferreyra. The comic will arrive on November 12, shortly after the movie’s release.
Trachtenberg has hinted that Badlands could be just the start of a new wave of Predator stories, saying he has ideas for more films depending on how audiences respond.
It’s exciting to see the Predator franchise evolve into something new while keeping its brutal spirit alive. Focusing on a Predator as the hero is a bold move that could refresh the series completely. What do you think about Predator: Badlands taking the franchise in a new direction? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
