The Predator franchise, one of the most feared and fascinating series in science fiction history, is returning with a fresh twist in Predator: Badlands, set to release worldwide on 7 November 2025. This time, the hunter becomes the hunted.
The Predator saga began in 1987 with Arnold Schwarzenegger’s iconic film Predator, where a team of commandos faced a terrifying, invisible creature in the Amazon jungle. The film introduced audiences to the deadly alien species known as the Yautja, whose only goal was to hunt the most powerful beings in the universe.
The 1990 sequel, Predator 2, shifted the setting from forests to the concrete jungle of Los Angeles. Here, the Predator hunted gang members and police officers, revealing that these creatures had been visiting Earth for centuries.
In 2010’s Predators, the story took human warriors to the Predator’s home planet, where they faced “super predators”. The film explored the inner conflict and hierarchy within the Yautja species.
Then came 2022’s Prey, which took the story back in time to 1719. Set among the Comanche tribe, it followed a brave young woman named Naru who fought the Predator with courage and wit. The film revived the franchise with its fresh setting and emotional storytelling.
Now, Predator: Badlands, directed by Dan Trachtenberg, promises to take the series to new heights. The story centres on a young Predator named Dek, who becomes trapped on a dangerous planet. Forced to team up with an android warrior named Thea, Dek must fight for survival — a unique twist where the hunter faces his own hunt.
For the first time, the story will unfold from the Predator’s perspective, exploring the Yautja’s culture, values, and weaknesses. The film aims to go beyond action and thrill, offering a deeper look into the moral limits of hunting and survival.
With its bold new approach and emotional depth, Predator: Badlands is expected to redefine the legendary franchise and give fans an unforgettable cinematic experience.
