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Predator: Badlands - Review

Just as he did with Prey and Killer of Killers, Dan Trachtenberg once again breaks new ground with the Predator franchise. Badlands is a bold and badass departure from everything we’ve seen before, proving the Yautja to be a versatile, genre-defying species under the right direction.

By exploring the Predator as a character rather than just a threat, you risk pulling back the curtain too far — but thankfully, that’s not the case here. These creatures are as ruthless and menacing as ever. Dek is the name of this Yautja, and his tribe’s customs are absolutely brutal. They hunt for sport, and the weakest links are slaughtered — even family. It’s a massive expansion of the lore that feels entirely fresh, giving the franchise a true sci-fi identity again. Tonally, it’s refreshingly unique — essentially a buddy team-up movie between Dek and Thia, the chatty top half of a Weyland-Yutani synth.

A still from Predator: Badlands
A still from Predator: Badlands.

The plot is lean, emphasizing character, atmosphere, and action over complex storytelling. Despite the simplicity, it handles its themes with surprising finesse, allowing us to empathize with Dek and his determination to prove his worth. Elle Fanning’s Thia makes for a fun and energetic companion — her upbeat personality clashing perfectly with Dek’s stoicism. The film has heart and humor in unexpected places, and though it takes a moment to adjust to its lighter tone, it ultimately feels like a refreshing change that works beautifully within the franchise.

This is the most expensive Predator movie yet, and it looks the part. Despite a smaller, more personal story, the world feels vast and alive — every detail, from the flora to the creatures, pulses with danger. The CGI blends seamlessly with impressive practical effects, and Dek’s design is remarkable, with jaw-dropping prosthetic detail. The action is exhilarating and inventive — not quite matching the intensity of Killer of Killers, but still packing a serious punch. Even with a PG-13 rating, nothing feels toned down; if it bleeds, Dek will kill it. The bombastic score, filled with guttural vocals and pounding drums, amplifies every sequence.

In Dan Trachtenberg we trust. The director is now three-for-three in reinventing the Predator saga, refusing to retread old ground. What it lacks in narrative depth, it makes up for with thrilling action, emotional weight, and stunning visuals. Badlands is all about the hunt — and it absolutely delivers.

Rating: ★★★★

Review by: Benjamin Garrett

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