UPDATE: In a groundbreaking move for the Predator and Alien franchises, director Dan Trachtenberg has confirmed that Predator: Badlands will be set in the distant future, a decision that could redefine the cinematic landscape of these beloved series. The film follows a Yautja named Dek and Thia, a damaged synthetic from the Weyland-Yutani Corporation, and its release is generating significant buzz just ahead of its debut on November 5, 2025.
Trachtenberg shared insights during an interview with Variety, emphasizing his intention to avoid overlap with other projects, particularly Alien: Romulus. “Very intentionally, it is the furthest into the future in both ‘Predator’ and ‘Alien,'” he stated. This strategic distancing allows Badlands to exist as a standalone narrative, separate from other ongoing stories within the franchises.
Critics and audiences are responding positively, as evidenced by the film’s impressive early reviews. It currently boasts a “Certified Fresh” rating and a staggering 95% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes. Financially, Predator: Badlands has made history with a phenomenal domestic opening of $40 million and a global debut totaling $80 million, surpassing the lifetime earnings of Predator 2 ($54.8 million) within just one weekend. The film is on track to challenge the original Predator’s total of $98.3 million.
The film’s unique setting, which takes place even after Alien: Resurrection, showcases Trachtenberg’s willingness to explore uncharted territories within the franchise’s timeline. He expressed excitement about venturing into this new era, stating, “I was excited for this to be in the future, even past ‘Alien: Resurrection.'”
The success of Badlands opens the door for potential sequels, as the film’s conclusion sets the stage for further adventures with Dek and Thia. While no sequel has been officially greenlit yet, the strong box office performance and favorable reviews suggest a promising future for Trachtenberg’s vision.
As for the larger universe, discussions about renewing Alien: Earth for a second season and a possible sequel for Romulus are ongoing. However, Trachtenberg assured fans that these projects will not interfere with the trajectory of Predator: Badlands due to its unique timeline placement.
With strong box office numbers and critical acclaim, Predator: Badlands is poised to make a significant impact in the sci-fi genre. As fans eagerly await its release, the film’s fresh approach could usher in a new era for both franchises, captivating audiences around the globe. Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
