Predator: Badlands Movie Review (Spoiler Free)

The newest alien hunter tale takes things in a new direction. The biggest change, we follow the plot from a Yautja’s perspective. It’s entertaining, it's violent, it’s something else…

Genre: Action / Adventure / Sci-Fi

Director: Dan Trachtenberg

Cast: Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi, Elli Fanning, Mike Homik, Stefan Grube, Reuben de Jong, Cameron Brown & Alison Wright.

Run Time: 107 min.

US Release: 07 November 2025

UK Release: 07 November 2025

German Release: 06 November 2025

If you followed my reviews back then, you will know that Predator is one of my all-time favourite flicks, which I re-watch nearly every year. The franchise, though, has been hit-and-miss. The first sequel is mediocre at best, the third instalment I enjoyed, Shane Black’s premise was absolute trash and then came Dan Trachtenberg… I adored Prey, liked Killer of Killers, so naturally I couldn’t wait for this new addition. However, when I left the theatre, I was torn. On the one hand, it entertained me, on the other… There were too many things that nagged at me.

So, come hunt with me and stalk my review for Predator: Badlands.

A young Yautcha exile must prove his worth to his clan by hunting the ultimate adversary. On his way, he crash-lands on the planet, forming an unlikely alliance with a synthetic to survive the hostile world.

The screenplay is, unfortunately, the most divisive aspect of Trachtenberg’s new film. For one, though the hunt’s initial setup is exhilarating, it quickly grows repetitive around the midpoint. The tone also shifts drastically from the franchise’s usual action-horror roots, leaning more towards comedy-adventure, a choice that diminishes the menace traditionally associated with the Yautja. On top of that, the inclusion of an unnecessary, emotionally manipulative animal companion feels out of place.

That said, the expansion of the lore is impressively ambitious, adding new layers of depth by flipping the formula, turning the franchise’s villain into the protagonist and making him surprisingly relatable to audiences. This fresh perspective injects real excitement into the narrative. The “buddy-duo” dynamic starts off rocky, but ultimately works. While the adventure does hit a stretch of monotony around the halfway point, it remains structurally solid.

The dialogue for Thia can come across as condescending, as well as painfully expository at times. However, her interaction with Dek stands out as one of the film's strongest points. The exchanges between the hierarchical aliens feature some of the most powerful and thought-provoking conversations.

Badlands focuses mainly on the two leads, whose strong chemistry is a highlight. Supporting characters are rather one-dimensional, used as plot devices or fodder for brutal massacres. 

Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi, who plays the Yautja runt Dek, is the driving force of the story. The actor gives an impressive, physical performance that conveys his physical strength, as well as his emotional arc.

Though Elli Fanning’s persona might have been spoiled in trailers, nonetheless, I will try to stay as vague as possible. Thia is empathetic plus caring, in search of a true connection. Fanning’s rendition is mesmerising, able to switch characteristics with the blink of an eye. That is all I am going to say. 

The villain Tessa represents a colder, opposing force to Thia. Her motivations may lack complexity, making her a standard, by-the-book movie villain. That said, given her nature, this might be forgiven, even though it could also be explained as a case of lazy writing.

The camera beautifully captures the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand, creating an epic, otherworldly atmosphere, contrasting the barren world of Yautja Prime. The battles are vicious, even within the limitations of a PG-13 rating, retaining the ferocity and brutality of the alien hunters. The earthy tones highlight the rocky, jungle aesthetic of the Badlands, differing from the sterile, white hues of Weyland-Yutani’s interior settings.

The visual effects are generally impressive, giving the world an immersive touch. The creature’ blend of practical makeup and CGI enhancements looks convincingly detailed. Unfortunately, some of the more digital-heavy imagery can appear muddy or unfinished, especially in the final scene, where the computer-generated visuals plus green-screen effects become glaringly obvious.

The orchestral score, by composer duo Benjaming Wallfish/Sarah Sachner, reflects the grandeur of the blockbuster. The familiar clicking, vocal motifs of the alien are combined with a new fabricated language.  

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Verdict: Dan Trachtenberg’s new Predator flick is one thing for sure… It’s ballsy! Taking the villain of previous instalments and turning him into the protagonist. On top of that, he manages to make the alien surprisingly relatable. The idea of centring the plot around an outcast, who tries to earn his place in the tribe by killing a beast even the Yaucha respect, is ingenious. I didn’t even mind the inclusion of Ellie Fanning’s character, though her role becomes really nerve-grinding during the first half. The dialogue also features a bit too much humour for a Predator movie. That said, Dek’s journey is beautiful to witness, even if it drags a little around the middle mark. The cinematography is stunning, and the world is lush, filled with deadly creatures. The practical prosthetics, enhanced with CGI, work incredibly well. Unfortunately, this does not account for all digitally rendered effects. It’s entertaining, even if it left me at odds at times. I’ll give Predator Badlands a 7.0 out of 10. 

Though I was left torn, I would say that this is a movie worth watching on the big screen. However, tone down your expectations. Thank you for reading!