Thescreescore – Dan Trachtenberg, the visionary director behind the critically acclaimed Prey, is gearing up to unleash Predator: Badlands upon audiences, and he’s revealed a key narrative element that connects the two films: the underdog story. In an exclusive group interview during thescreescore.com’s set visit, Trachtenberg shared that Badlands, much like its predecessor, centers on a protagonist who is "the runt of the litter," an individual perceived as the weakest who must rise to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds.
Trachtenberg emphasizes his affinity for underdog narratives, stating, "For me, I’ve just always had a deep affection for underdog stories. Prey was certainly that, and I think that story is still that of an underdog." This emotional core, he suggests, serves as a unifying thread despite the films’ distinct settings and time periods. Predator: Badlands introduces Dex, a young Yautja outcast grappling with a traumatic event that fuels his perilous journey across a hostile alien planet.
The director draws parallels between his approach to Predator and the Mission: Impossible franchise, explaining, "Tom Cruise is not James Bond. He can’t handle everything with grace, he’s failing constantly." This element of struggle, of a protagonist pushing against the limits of their abilities, is what Trachtenberg finds compelling. Dex, he teases, will face challenges far exceeding those previously encountered by Predators, making his struggle all the more captivating.
Following the success of Prey, a prequel set in 1719 that resonated with audiences and critics alike, Trachtenberg directed Predator: Killer of Killers, further solidifying his vision for the franchise. Predator: Badlands, slated for a theatrical release on November 7, 2025, promises to be a game-changing addition, introducing a fresh dynamic with Dex forming an unlikely alliance with a synthetic being named Thia.
While Predator: Badlands will deliver the expected action and thrills, Trachtenberg is also aiming for a balance of warmth and beauty. "There is a way to continue doing these movies that can have a warmth at the center, but also still be incredibly ferocious and action-oriented," he notes. Despite the film’s PG-13 rating, Trachtenberg assures fans that the level of gore will be different, showcasing the Predator engaging in unprecedented hunts on an alien planet against non-human adversaries.
With Predator: Badlands, Trachtenberg aims to deepen the franchise’s emotional resonance while delivering the intense action and brutal thrills that fans crave. By embracing the underdog narrative that resonated so well in Prey, the film promises a fresh yet familiar experience that honors the legacy of Predator.
For the full interview, check out thescreescore.com’s Predator: Badlands set visit here.
Leave a Comment