'Badlands' Is the Best Movie in the 'Predator' Franchise Since the First Film – Here's Why

The Predator franchise has had a long journey, from the iconic 1987 action film to the controversial sequels and spin-offs that followed.

It seemed as if the story of the alien hunters had run its course. However, director Dan Trachtenberg – who had already proven his skill with Prey – achieved the near-impossible.

His Predator: Badlands not only breathed new life into the franchise but also rebooted it. It offers the freshest and most gripping take on the Yautja universe since the original film.

What Is 'Predator: Badlands' About?

The protagonist is a young Yautja named Dek. He yearns to prove his worth and earn the respect of his stern father, the clan leader.

In an attempt to restore his family's honor, Dek embarks on a deadly mission to track down and kill the legendary monster Kalisk on a distant planet teeming with terrifying life forms.

His journey becomes more challenging when his father declares him a disgrace to the clan and orders his older brother to kill him. The brother sacrifices himself to save Dek, allowing him to escape.

On the dangerous planet, Dek meets an unexpected ally – the damaged synthetic Thia.

'Predator: Badlands' Shifts the Franchise's Focus, Offering a Refreshing Take

Dek isn't a mindless killing machine, he's a complex antihero with clear motivations and internal conflicts. For the first time, viewers have the opportunity to do more than fear the Predators – they can also empathize with them as they witness their struggle for acceptance and self-identification.

This approach radically changes the perspective. Rather than the typical "humans versus monsters" plot, we are presented with a coming-of-age story about a warrior's development in a brutal and complex world.

It's a refreshing change that opens up new narrative possibilities for the franchise, moving it away from the already familiar formula.

The Movie Delves Deeper Into the Lore and History of the Predators

Badlands is a gift for fans of deep lore. Trachtenberg finally lifts the veil of secrecy on the Predators culture, social hierarchy, and family relationships.

This focus on the Predators' world allows for a complex, multilayered story that explores their civilization from the inside rather than repeatedly portraying them through the lens of human fear.

'Predator: Badlands' Is a Visual Feast With a Strong Storyline

Badlands is an undeniable visual triumph for the franchise. The dangerous planet is presented as a living, breathing organism with incredibly detailed and inventive flora and fauna – where even a blade of grass can be deadly.

The action scenes are staged with scope and energy, surpassing all previous installments in scale and spectacle.

But behind the vibrant visuals lies a high-quality story. The plot is seamless, and the dynamic relationship between the sullen Dek and the optimistic Thia adds emotional depth to the story and conceals an interesting plot twist.

What Did Critics & Viewers Think of 'Predator: Badlands'?

• Predator: Badlands has 85% from critics and 95% from viewers on Rotten Tomatoes.

• On IMDb, the movie has a score of 7.6/10.

• On Letterboxd, Predator: Badlands is scored 3.6/5.0.

Where to Watch 'Predator: Badlands'?

Predator: Badlands is currently playing in theaters.