The highly anticipated science fiction action feature, Predator: Badlands, is slated to hit theaters on November 7, 2025. Serving as the sixth entry in the long-running franchise, this film sees the return of director Dan Trachtenberg, who previously revitalized the series with the critically acclaimed prequel, Prey. Badlands promises a significant narrative evolution, moving beyond the established trope of the Predator as a relentless hunter. For the first time in the thirty-seven-year history of the franchise, the plot pivots to feature the extraterrestrial warrior not merely as a pursuer, but as a reluctant protagonist compelled to forge unexpected alliances.
The action unfolds in a far-flung future, situated on the notoriously hostile planet known as Kalisk—ominously dubbed the “Planet of Death.” This environment is characterized by flora and fauna that present dangers just as lethal as the planet itself. At the heart of the story is Dek, a young Yautja portrayed by Demetrius Schuster-Koloamatangi. Dek finds himself ostracized from his own clan, primarily due to his diminutive height and the resulting assumption of weakness. Driven by a fierce need to prove his worth and survive, he enters into a surprising partnership with Theta, an android played by Elle Fanning. Theta is described as a defective synthetic entity originating from the powerful Weyland-Yutani corporation, who, much like Dek, is struggling to define her existence.
This shared odyssey transcends a simple fight for survival; it becomes a profound process where both characters discover intrinsic value in a universe that has relegated them to the status of mere tools or societal rejects. Their path is fraught with peril, forcing them to confront formidable adversaries. These include mysterious, reportedly indestructible creatures, alongside a specialized squad of Weyland-Yutani androids intent on seizing absolute dominion over Kalisk. Director Dan Trachtenberg, collaborating on the screenplay with Patrick Aison, revealed that the unique relationship dynamics between Dek and Theta were heavily influenced by the acclaimed cult video game, Shadow of the Colossus.
The alliance between these two “broken” individuals, both desperate for acceptance, serves as a powerful catalyst for exploring fundamental concepts of family, loyalty, and the meaning of a clan. To ensure genuine immersion and authenticity regarding Yautja culture, the production team meticulously developed a specialized language for the species. Behind the scenes, John Davis and Brent O'Connor served as producers, guiding the project to fruition. The film’s sonic landscape was crafted by composers Sarah Schachner and Benjamin Wallfisch. Ultimately, Badlands is poised to be a compelling study of resilience, demonstrating that forging unbreakable connections and harnessing internal strength through collaboration offers the ultimate means of conquering overwhelming external adversity, even when faced with the direst, most hostile circumstances imaginable.