Predator: Badlands - First Look Reveals Alien Planet and Surprising Hero Twist

Director: Dan Trachtenberg (*Prey*) returns to direct.

Star: Elle Fanning leads the cast as a character named Thia.

Setting: The film takes place on a harsh alien environment described as a "planet of hurt."

Release Date: Scheduled for theatrical release on November 7, 2025.

Major Twist: Fanning's character reportedly teams up with the Predator, exploring the idea of the Yautja as a protagonist or anti-hero.

New Threats: The Predator itself will face even deadlier alien creatures native to the planet.

Why this matters: Shifting the Predator from the hunter to a potential ally (or at least, a co-protagonist against a greater threat) fundamentally alters the franchise's dynamic, offering a fresh perspective after decades of the Yautja being the primary antagonist.

Q: Who is directing Predator: Badlands?

A: Dan Trachtenberg, who previously revitalized the franchise with *Prey* (2022), is directing.

Q: What is the main premise twist in Predator: Badlands?

A: The film features the human protagonist (Elle Fanning) teaming up with the Predator, potentially casting the alien hunter in a heroic or anti-heroic role against larger threats on an alien planet.

Q: When is Predator: Badlands coming out?

A: The movie is set for a theatrical release on November 7, 2025.

Prepare for a *Predator* movie unlike any before, where the iconic hunter might be the one you root for.

The shift to an alien planet opens up possibilities for new creature designs and environmental dangers.

Dan Trachtenberg's involvement suggests a continuation of the quality and fresh perspective seen in *Prey*.

Source 1: The First Glimpse of Predator: Badlands Is Full of Skulls and Snarls (Gizmodo){target="_blank"}

Source 2: First Predator: Badlands Trailer Shown at CinemaCon (IGN){target="_blank"}

Source 3: PREDATOR: BADLANDS Reveals First Look At The Movie's Yautja As Elle Fanning Shares Crazy Plot Twist (ComicBookMovie){target="_blank"}