I’m opening this up with: Predator: Badlands is one of my favorite action blockbusters that I’ve seen in years. Badlands opens with a heart-wrenching scene that lays the groundwork for Dek (Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi), who’s a Yautja outcast for being a runt of the family, to begin his journey. In the quest to prove himself to his father and the clan, he ends up on one of the most dangerous planets, fighting for his survival and bringing back his trophy. He meets Thia (Elle Fanning), a Weyland-Yutani synthetic, who assists him in his mission.
Dan Trachtenberg, who previously directed Prey and the animated film Predator: Killer of Killers, clearly shows his love of the franchise, and I admire how he takes us far deeper into this universe with each installment. Rather than seeing Dek ravage through a group of unlucky soldiers, we are alongside him as he forges his own path separate from the society he once knew. The direction is exhilarating, with the pacing being on point with action-packed scenes that drive the narrative to new heights.
I recommend seeing Predator: Badlands in a theater (trust me, I will be going again opening weekend); it really deserves to be seen on the biggest screen possible. The vast landscape lends itself to breathtaking shots as Dek and Thia introduce us to creatures that all serve their purpose in this planet’s ecosystem. Trachtenberg, the production designers, VFX artists, and screenwriters Patrick Aison and Brian Duffield took full advantage of the freedom to create the diverse species that make the world that much more vibrant.
Beneath the phenomenal action sequences, the core story about finding family and breaking away from expectations shines through every beat. The stakes are real, and it’s satisfying to see everyone’s evolution play out. The screenplay tonally balances the thrills, humor, and emotional beats seamlessly. Paired with Schuster-Koloamatangi’s dry disposition in his delivery and Fanning’s curious charisma, these work to authentically hit every note. Watching Dek build bonds with those who are entirely different, him speaking another language and communicating through alternative avenues, hits home in a time like this.
Dek’s journey, which begins with the quest for acceptance and revenge, grows to explore who he is and how he differs from the clan — physically and emotionally. He proves that he is far more noble than they could ever be. The Yautja are ruthless, endlessly making others their prey without hesitation. They can kill their own and feel no remorse. Dek’s father sees the cracks in him, but that is what gives Dek his true strength. The humanity he develops expands his world, serving his journey by conquering any self-doubt that may have been present. He navigates the unknown terrain with Thia’s knowledge and relies on teamwork to achieve his goal. By the time we get to the final action sequences, the new skills he has gained as a fighter are in full effect.
Elle Fanning is in a dual role as Thia and Tessa, not an easy feat to begin with, let alone that they’re two synthetics with opposing personalities. With ease, she does an incredible job with her vocal inflections and mannerisms to highlight those differences. It’s subtle changes, but they make a significant impact. I can’t applaud her performance enough! This is my first time seeing Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi on the screen, and the ruthless physicality he brings to the role was electric. Without missing a beat—from the beginning to the end of the film—he emotionally invests in a character we typically see as the villain.
I was genuinely shocked to connect with Predator: Badlands as profoundly as I did. I appreciate some of the movies in the franchise, but they haven’t necessarily been for me. This film really fired on all cylinders, showing exactly how to create a compelling action film that transcends what we would typically expect from a blockbuster. Whatever you’re coming into this film expecting, you’ll walk away with even more. Trachtenberg and Co. have breathed new life into the franchise with the last three installments, and I hope we get to see more in the future!
Rating: 8.5/10