share 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 The Predator franchise has spawned different heroes over the years, from Arnold Schwarzenegger’s muscle-bound commando to Amber Midthunder’s Comanche warrior Naru in 2022’s Prey . But the formula is set to change with Predator: Badlands , the next film in the long-running series, as the focus shifts to an unlikely yet intriguing lead. Speaking to Empire , director Dan Trachtenberg revealed that the Predator will step into the main role in the upcoming sequel, departing from its tradition of starring human protagonists.
“The creature is front and centre, leading the charge,” he said. “He’s still badass. but there’s something there that touches you emotionally, too.
Creating a character you connect with, but are also super-intimidated by, has been challenging. But exciting.” Advertisement ▼ According to the filmmaker, the change in approach stemmed from a desire to “find another essential piece of cinema that does what Prey did spiritually — pushing the franchise’s boundaries, letting us root for a hero we rarely get to root for — but in a different way.
” This, of course, raises questions about Elle Fanning’s role in Predator: Badlands . The Super 8 and Maleficient star has been cast in the movie , and while no specifics were announced about her on-screen persona, it’s confirmed that she will play more than one character. Predator: Badlands is slated for release on 7 November 2025 , replacing the highly-anticipated reboot of.