The Predator franchise has always been a box office enigma, with a cult following but never quite reaching blockbuster status. And here's the twist: despite its ups and downs, the franchise is getting a unique revival with a bold new direction.
The original Predator, directed by John McTiernan, was a solid hit, but its successors struggled to replicate that success. The franchise seemed destined for obscurity after Predator 2's lackluster performance, and the subsequent AVP films and Shane Black's The Predator didn't revive its fortunes.
But then came Prey in 2022, a refreshing take on the Predator mythos, starring Amber Midthunder as a Comanche warrior. The film's success left director Dan Trachtenberg with a dilemma: how to follow up without simply repeating the formula?
Trachtenberg's solution? Make the Predator the protagonist! In a surprising twist, the upcoming Predator: Badlands will tell the story from the Predator's perspective, a concept hinted at in The Predator but never fully explored. This fresh approach is a daring move, especially when paired with the talented Elle Fanning.
By flipping the script and focusing on the alien hunter, Trachtenberg is breathing new life into a franchise that has struggled to find its footing. It's a risky move, but one that could pay off by attracting both fans and newcomers alike.
But here's where it gets controversial: is this a respectful homage or a betrayal of the original films' spirit? Will it be a thrilling new direction or a misstep that dilutes the Predator's mystique? The debate is sure to spark passionate discussions among fans.
Predator: Badlands is set to release in theaters on November 7, 2025, and it promises to be a game-changer for the franchise. Will it be a triumphant return or a controversial misadventure? You decide. What do you think about this unconventional sequel? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
