Amber Midthunder Drops HUGE Naru Predator Update!

Thescreescore – Amber Midthunder, the acclaimed star who brought the formidable warrior Naru to life in the critically lauded 2022 prequel Prey, has offered a tantalizing glimpse into her potential future within the Predator cinematic universe. While a direct sequel to Prey remains unconfirmed, Midthunder’s character has already made subtle, yet significant, appearances in director Dan Trachtenberg’s subsequent franchise entries, Killer of Killers and Badlands, fueling fervent fan speculation about her next hunt.

During an exclusive conversation with thescreescore.com’s Grant Hermanns, conducted amidst discussions for her role in Mike Flanagan’s Carrie series, Midthunder was naturally queried about any recent dialogues with Trachtenberg regarding Naru’s trajectory. With an amused candor, she affirmed that Naru’s ultimate destiny "rests squarely in the visionary hands of Dan Trachtenberg." She further elaborated on the unique dynamic between an actor and their role, likening performers to "guardians at the character’s gate," yet acknowledging that the ultimate narrative direction "is ultimately determined by the creative architects – the writers, directors, and the studio’s guiding vision."

Midthunder expressed profound affection for both Naru and her Carrie character, stating her eagerness to revisit them, despite the decision not being hers alone. She lauded Trachtenberg as a "masterful filmmaker and storyteller," expressing immense admiration for his stewardship of the Predator saga. Having thoroughly enjoyed Killer of Killers and Badlands, she conveyed her excitement for his overarching plans, confident that the franchise’s future is in "the most trustworthy hands imaginable."

The resounding success of Prey, which not only garnered critical acclaim as the franchise’s highest-rated entry but also shattered viewership records on Hulu, swiftly ignited discussions for a potential Prey 2. Midthunder has consistently voiced her enthusiasm for reprising her role. While whispers in early 2024 suggested the sequel was indeed progressing into early development, with Midthunder reportedly in negotiations, 20th Century Studios ultimately prioritized Trachtenberg’s third Predator installment, Badlands.

This strategic pivot proved somewhat beneficial for the seventh cinematic chapter in the sci-fi action saga. Badlands secured its place as the third-best-reviewed film in the series and emerged as the highest-grossing Predator movie to date. Nevertheless, its substantial production budget, reportedly hitting $105 million, casts a shadow of uncertainty over its $184 million box office haul. Industry analysts often note that films typically need to gross approximately 2.5 times their budget to achieve profitability, leaving its true financial success open to interpretation by 20th Century.

While Naru’s presence in Badlands was largely a subtle nod rather than a central role, the film’s conclusion undeniably hinted at a grand narrative arc Trachtenberg is meticulously crafting across his Predator entries. Killer of Killers famously concluded with Midthunder’s character, alongside other iconic figures, held in suspended animation on the formidable Yautja Prime. Badlands, meanwhile, introduced Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi’s Dek, who, having survived Genna, ascended to power on the alien homeworld, seemingly preparing for a confrontation with his progenitor. The intriguing development of Dek forging a unique clan composed of non-Predator beings suggests he could become the pivotal catalyst for Naru’s eventual liberation.

The announcement of Trachtenberg’s first-look deal with Paramount initially sparked questions regarding his long-term commitment to the Predator franchise, particularly concerning Prey 2 and future installments. Yet, the director previously assured thescreescore.com that this arrangement would operate concurrently, affirming he remains "deeply immersed in envisioning further narratives" for the beloved series. With Midthunder’s palpable eagerness to return, it appears Naru’s most significant battles and untold sagas are still on the horizon.