A young, exiled Yautja is thrust into a harsh alien world where he forges an unlikely alliance, including with a damaged synthetic.
Written by Patrick Aison from a story by Dan Trachtenberg and Aison. Sadly, it isn't the stripped-back simplicity of Predator (1987) or Prey (2022); instead, it embraces the franchise's comic-book and other mediums-big ideas, bold visuals, and kinetic action, much like Trachtenberg's Predator: Killer of Killers (2025).
The special effects are first rate, the music from Sara Schachner complement Trachtenberg's slick direction, action setups and emotional beats.
Badlands feels closer to 2004's AVP than the core series. It blends Enemy Mine-style companionship, Aeon Flux-like surreal grass, Conan the Barbarian vibes, and Weyland-Yutani nods, Alien, Aliens, and Alien: Romulus (especially in the third act), there's also wild beasts reminiscent of Predators (2010). Even some callbacks especially the ship to Predator 2 and much more. If you're hoping for a gritty return after Prey? You'll be disappointed. Badlands is mythic, heart-driven sci-fi adventure. The Predator's design and lore work well, while not the same reasoning, it still echoes 2018's genetic explanations for its human mannerisms.
Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi anchors the film as Dek, giving the Predator heart and a strong arc. Elle Fanning shines in dual roles as quirky, unsettling Thia (a severed Weyland-Yutani android) and Tessa. The supporting cast, including Dek's father, brother, and clan leader, add depth.
Was it what I expected? No. Did I enjoy it? Thoroughly. Sequel? Absolutely.
Badlands isn't the primal jungle horror or urban action, I would have liked, but it's a spirited, emotionally rich expansion of the mythos, shaped by comic lore and sci-fi grandeur.
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