There’s a notable trend in Hollywood of redefining iconic villains as sympathetic or even heroic figures. Films like ‘Wicked’ and ‘Maleficent’ have transformed once-evil characters into protagonists, while the ‘Venom’ trilogy brought Spider-Man’s arch-nemesis into the spotlight. ‘Predator: Badlands’ continues this trend, positioning the legendary Predator as a figure of redemption rather than an antagonist. Directed by Dan Trachtenberg, this reboot brings a fresh perspective to the franchise, focusing on Dek, a Yautja warrior striving to prove his worth in his clan.
Unlike the original 1987 film featuring Arnold Schwarzenegger, ‘Badlands’ reimagines the Predator as a character in search of validation. Dek, portrayed by Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi, is perceived as weak by his warrior kin, particularly his larger brother and father. Determined to prove his strength, he embarks on a quest to hunt the mythical Kalisk, a massive, regenerative creature with tentacles and a fearsome reputation. His journey takes an unexpected turn when he encounters Thia, a synthetic humanoid from the Weyland-Yutani Corporation, a company known for its ties to the ‘Alien’ universe.
Thia, played by Elle Fanning, becomes Dek’s reluctant ally, offering crucial survival skills and navigational guidance. While Dek sees her as a necessary tool, Thia hopes to reunite with Tessa, another synthetic she was separated from during a Kalisk attack. Their relationship evolves from survival necessity to an unlikely bond, reflecting themes of companionship and emotional depth. The film’s unique dynamic, combining action, sci-fi, and a road trip buddy comedy, adds a fresh layer to the franchise’s legacy. With a PG-13 rating, the film avoids human fatalities but delivers intense alien action, marking the sixth entry in the ‘Predator’ saga.
Trachtenberg, who previously directed the well-received ‘Prey,’ brings a visually stunning and emotionally engaging approach to the franchise. The film’s landscapes and creature designs are breathtaking, offering a rich sci-fi universe to explore. While the narrative remains straightforward, Trachtenberg’s direction ensures a compelling and immersive experience. The film’s focus on Dek’s internal struggle for acceptance and the evolving relationship with Thia provides a heartfelt undercurrent. ‘Badlands’ stands as a promising addition to the Predator franchise, delivering action-packed fun with a unique storytelling approach.