News Summary
The upcoming film, Predator: Badlands, directed by Dan Trachtenberg, promises to deepen character explorations within the franchise. Set on a remote planet, it follows a young outcast Predator who forms an alliance with a human, potentially hinting at connections to the Alien universe. With an emotionally driven narrative and innovations like subtitled Predator language, fans can expect a fresh take on the series. A special panel at Comic-Con revealed early footage and an alternate ending to the previous film, intensifying anticipation for its release.
San Diego, CA – The highly anticipated film in the Predator franchise, titled Predator: Badlands, is set to hit theaters on November 7, 2025. Directed by Dan Trachtenberg, who previously worked on Prey and 10 Cloverfield Lane, this new installment promises to bring fresh narratives and deeper character explorations to the iconic series.
During a packed Hall H panel at San Diego Comic-Con, which attracted approximately 6,500 fans, a trailer for Predator: Badlands was showcased, generating significant excitement amongst attendees. Many fans adorned themselves in Predator masks, further adding to the atmosphere as a 7-foot-tall Predator character made an appearance, interacting with the audience.
The narrative of Predator: Badlands is set on a remote planet in the future, centering on a young outcast Predator named Dek, played by Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi. Dek forges an unexpected alliance with Thia, portrayed by Elle Fanning, as they embark on a quest to find a formidable adversary. The film aims to present a plot that not only enhances the existing franchise but perhaps hints at connections to the Alien universe through the character of Thia, who may possess android attributes.
The Comic-Con panel featured a special presentation that included an exclusive alternate ending of the previous film Predator: Killer of Killers, showcasing memorable appearances by Arnold Schwarzenegger and Danny Glover. Additionally, audiences were treated to the first 15 minutes of Predator: Badlands, offering an early glimpse into the film’s direction.
Dan Trachtenberg emphasized his desire to diverge from the typical portrayal of Predators as mere antagonists. Historically, the franchise has depicted them as villains, but Trachtenberg aims to delve into the emotional journey of the Predator character, creating a deeper connection for audiences. By pairing Dek with Thia, an unforeseen ally, the film is set to present a more multi-dimensional anti-hero, shifting away from the conventional narrative.
The film intends to subtitle the Yautja language, traditionally spoken by Predators, to enhance viewer comprehension and engagement. This decision reflects Trachtenberg’s commitment to making the film accessible while still preserving the franchise’s intricate lore.
Predator: Badlands is poised to expand the Predator universe, promising new directions while honoring its storied legacy. The film is the latest in a franchise that began with the original Predator film in 1987, followed by Predator 2 in 1990, Predators in 2010, The Predator in 2018, and the more recent Prey in 2022. Each installment has contributed to the evolving narrative of the Predator mythos, with Predator: Badlands looking to make its mark on the legacy.
As anticipation builds leading up to its release, fans can look forward to a film that blends action, character development, and possibly unexpected narrative twists that aim to redefine their understanding of the Predator franchise.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Comic-Con 2025 Showcases Star-Studded Panels and New Releases
Exclusive Screening of ‘The Toxic Avenger’ at Comic-Con
Sparke Films Unveils ‘Primitive War’ at Comic-Con
NECA Unveils Exclusive Action Figures for Comic-Con
Additional Resources
- Fox 5 San Diego: Comic-Con Attendees Get Exclusive Look at Predator: Badlands
- Wikipedia: Predator (franchise)
- Space.com: Predator: Badlands Director Teases Return of Arnold Schwarzenegger
- Google Search: Predator Badlands
- ABC7: Disney Dominates Hall at San Diego Comic-Con
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Predator Franchise
- The Wrap: Predator: Badlands First 15 Minutes at Comic-Con
- Google News: Predator Badlands
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
