The first reactions to Predator: Badlands, the new installment of the iconic franchise, are mostly positive following its screening in London on October 29. The film, directed by Dan Trachtenberg, has been praised for providing an intense action experience and memorable characters. Critics like Drew Taylor from The Wrap describe it as “a tremendous achievement—fun, scary, thrilling, with memorable characters and creatures.”
A movie that breaks with what we expected from the character
Trachtenberg takes a risk by changing the traditional approach of the saga, presenting a narrative of “cosmic buddy road movie” instead of the usual horrific survival. The story follows a young yautja who, after being exiled from his clan, embarks on a journey of self-discovery alongside an unusual cyborg, played by Elle Fanning. These narrative choices have sparked both praise and criticism within the fan community.
Despite the praise, some more purist fans feel that the movie has not met their expectations. Phil Roberts from Future of the Force describes Predator: Badlands as “an epic spectacle,” but mentions that it “takes risks that are not always successful.” Josh Barton from Barton Reviews also comments that, while it could be “the weakest work of Trachtenberg in the franchise,” it is, nonetheless, an interesting expansion of the Predator universe.
As Predator: Badlands prepares for its theatrical release on November 7, many critics highlight that it is set to attract a broader audience by exploring new directions within the story. With the promise of exciting adventures and a reinvention of the original concept, this film could change the public’s perception of the franchise.
