Predator: Badlands Review
When one thinks of the Predator franchise, the first thing that usually comes to mind is the explosive, gory action. Whether it be the classic film featuring a militaristic Arnold Schwarzenegger to the thrilling Prey and Killer of Killers, these movies are the backbone of the sci-fi action genre as a whole. While most of them showcased the prowess of the Yautja warriors, better known as the said Predators, we’ve been accustomed to one side of their story. For director Dan Trachtenberg, who gave us the modern 2020 Predator movies, he confidently takes a more experimental route with Predator: Badlands.
Predator: Badlands places us into the perspective of Dek (Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi), a young Predator who’s considered a weakling by his father. In an attempt to claim that right, Dek ends up on the treacherous planet of Genna to hunt down its prized creature: the regenerative Kalisk. However, given Genna’s countless dangers, he’s unable to do it alone and stumbles upon Thia (Elle Fanning), a damaged synth, to help him traverse these threats. Unfortunately for both of them, Thia’s partner, Tessa, is on the hunt for the Kalisk as well as Dek and Thia.
The most apparent thing that makes Predator: Badlands stand out is its PG-13 rating, which seems like a departure from previous series entries. As such, this has led some to doubt how intense Trachtenberg’s latest outing can be. However, the film manages to take measurable steps forward to honor the spirit of the action-thriller elements of the franchise.
This shows through the physical action, combining a blend of real stunt work and intricate CGI to keep you hooked. While the increasing on-screen stakes make the film feel somewhat Jumanji-esque with tree-vine monsters, explosive bugs, and plants that shoot deadly darts, most action moments will keep you closely invested. When all of this culminates in the climax, it does make for some crowd-pleasing moments that’ll really make you root wildly.
The extensive collaboration between Trachtenberg, Jeff Cutter, and Stefan Grube also results in an aesthetically beautiful film with its visuals. The expansive, jagged landscapes are reminiscent of those pieces from Prometheus with a The Mandalorian-inspired palette, creating some of the franchise’s most eye-catching locations yet. Every set piece in Predator: Badlands looks realistic, but is able to stand out in its own unique way (save for the Wey-Yu camps that play into the corporate-isms of the franchise.)
This also goes for the amazing practical effects of Dek and his Predator family, which really gives life to an otherwise apathetic creature. There’s a surprising amount of depth in their facial expressions as well since most of this is from Dek’s perspective, adding some subtleties slightly hidden before. This confidently works in tandem with the characteristics of Dek and the personal stakes that he has to deal with.
Predator: Badlands is, at its core, a “found family” story as Dek tries to live up to his family’s name with the help of Thia. The plot itself may feel basic as a sci-fi action-adventure with an ever-looming threat, this case being Tessa, who’s brought to life in a dual performance by Fanning. It very much feels like a video game at times since most of the film is action-centric and the beats about “evil AI synths” and “nature vs. nurture” are played out in a somewhat fast fashion. Yet, seeing both Dek and Thia share this common ground and developing sentiment about caring for others and “finding their clan” adds a needed sweetness to the film.
The chemistry that Dek and Thia share has its charms, most in part due to the “joker-straight man” dynamic they have and the constant jokes about Thia’s missing legs. These continuous exchanges also make for some quippy one-liners from Dek that will certainly drum up more of that excitement.
Furthermore, when it adds in “Bud”, this blue alien-monkey that feels like a play on Grogu and Aladdin’s Abu, you can’t help but enjoy its worth. To say that it is a key character is perhaps an understatement: while it may be initially nothing more than comic relief, the way the story forms its purpose does leave things to ponder on. Sure, its role in the film might be recognized as predictable once the third act kicks in, but the character is simply an overall joy.
Dan Trachtenberg confidently takes the franchise in a new direction with Predator: Badlands with a surprisingly emotional story while retaining the fierce action of the Predator films.
Predator: Badlands releases in theaters on November 7.
Rating: ★★★½
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Christopher Gallardo is a freelance entertainment writer and critic. While not running The Reel Roller, Chris can be found writing reviews and breakdowns on all things films and TV. Outside of entertainment writing, he’s currently taking classes for a Bachelor’s of Science with a minor in Digital Media & Journalism. Plus, he loves Percy Jackson, animated films and shows, and Fallout! Follow Christopher on Instagram & X.