Expanding the Predator Universe: A Review of Predator: Badlands
With the theatrical release of Predator: Badlands, director Dan Trachtenberg has delivered another outstanding addition to the iconic Predator franchise. Following his well-received film, Prey, which transported fans to the distant past, Badlands catapults audiences far into the future. This time, fans journey beyond Earth, exploring a strange planet that serves as the Predators’ most perilous hunting ground. This unique premise afforded the filmmakers the chance to unleash a variety of killer alien creatures, culminating in what many are calling the wildest and most thrilling entry in the series yet.
The Predator franchise began in 1987 with a hyper-masculine action film featuring a group of war veterans battling the titular alien during a mission in the jungles of Central America. Beneath the film’s explosive gunfire and glistening muscles lies a deconstructive narrative addressing the horrors of the Vietnam War and reflecting America’s militant presence in foreign territories. While the original film was emblematic of its era’s ultra-macho action films, modern audiences have shown a growing appetite for fresher and more diverse storytelling.
Hollywood faced challenges in rebooting the franchise after the mixed reception of 2018’s The Predator, which encountered a troubled production and garnered lackluster reviews. However, Trachtenberg, best known for directing 10 Cloverfield Lane, exceeded expectations with Prey, breathing new life into a beloved IP. Now, with the release of Predator: Badlands, it’s evident that Trachtenberg and his team have positively transformed the franchise.
Prey: A Groundbreaking Chapter
Hulu / Hulu
Set in 1719, Prey reinterpreted the original film’s themes of survival and colonialism, embedding them in a compelling narrative. The story follows Naru (Amber Midthunder), a Comanche woman striving to prove her worth as a hunter to her tribe amidst the threats posed by both a Predator and French voyageurs on her people’s native land.
The film’s focus on an Indigenous woman as the lead was groundbreaking for Hollywood blockbusters at the time of its release. By authentically depicting Comanche life and culture, with much of the dialogue in the Comanche language, Prey established itself as a forward-thinking installment in the franchise.
While the original film presented Anna (Elpidia Carrillo) as a supporting protagonist, Prey centers on Naru’s perspective, exploring the impact of colonial violence on Indigenous communities. The less technologically advanced setting heightened Naru’s challenges, showcasing her resourcefulness against an alien warrior equipped with advanced weaponry—a narrative approach that amplifies the stakes and drama of the story.
In many ways, I would argue that Prey surpasses its predecessor in both depth and execution, revitalizing the franchise just enough to warrant a new extension, which is precisely what we see with Predator: Badlands.
Predator: Badlands: A Bold New Frontier
20th Century Studios / 20th Century Studios
While the Alien and Predator franchises have crossed over in the past, Badlands takes an innovative approach by positioning a Predator as one of the protagonists. This shift is particularly striking, considering the Predators are typically portrayed as antagonists in previous films.
The “runt” Predator, Dek (Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi), embarks on a coming-of-age journey as he hunts for the formidable Kalisk on the ominous “death planet” Genna. Similar to Naru’s struggle to prove her capability to her tribe, Dek seeks acceptance within his clan on Yautja Prime.
Throughout the film, Predator: Badlands delves deeper into Predator society and culture, revealing a nuanced world in which the Predators are not solely defined by their hunter instincts. Dek, along with his unlikely allies Thia (Elle Fanning) and the alien Bud (Rohinal Nayaran), underscores that even Predators possess the capacity for love, humor, and friendship.
The narrative evolves the franchise’s themes of survival and identity into a heartwarming story of found family. Through Dek’s journey, he learns that vulnerability in relationships can be a source of strength, reflecting Thia’s influence on him. This character arc parallels Naru’s defiance in Prey, suggesting a broader commentary on societal expectations.
Furthermore, Badlands introduces elements of artificial intelligence, with Thia defying her programming from the Weyland-Yutani corporation, adding an additional layer of complexity to the narrative.
With the Predators’ reputation for lethal proficiency, placing one of them on a hostile planet known for its dangers proved to be a thrilling aspect of the film. Despite being armed with advanced technology, Dek encounters formidable creatures—sentient vines, regenerating apes, and giant alien elephants—requiring him to rely on his wits and the lessons learned throughout his adventure.
In conclusion, Trachtenberg has successfully crafted two engaging installments in the Predator franchise with Prey and Predator: Badlands. The film’s conclusion hints at further adventures, and many fans are eager to see what comes next—perhaps even a showdown between Predators and Xenomorphs.
Predator: Badlands is currently playing in theaters.
For more insights on this thrilling new installment, you can read further Here.
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