(Image: 20th Century Studios)
Following the debut of the first trailer for "Predator: Badlands," the sixth installment in the franchise from "Prey" director Dan Trachtenberg, audiences have been buzzing about the unique design and origin of its new Predator protagonist. In a recent interview with Bloody Disgusting, Trachtenberg offered some answers.
First off, the protagonist Yautja in "Badlands" is described as a "Runt," a term for the smallest member of a litter. Named Dek, this underdog hunter has chosen the alien world of Kalisk—also known as the Death Planet—as the proving ground for his trial. His mission is to prove his disapproving father wrong and earn his place within his tribe and bloodline. But the prey Dek is hunting is also hunting him, forcing him to use every skill at his disposal to survive.
(Image: 20th Century Studios)
Trachtenberg also noted that "Badlands" will draw heavily from the expanded universe of the "Predator" franchise, incorporating lore from comics and video games. Additionally, he cited several cinematic inspirations, including "Conan the Barbarian," "Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior," "The Book of Eli," and various Clint Eastwood westerns.
(Image: 20th Century Studios)
Trachtenberg also touched on the android character Thia, played by Elle Fanning, revealing her story arc is somewhat similar to Dek's while exploring different themes. He candidly admitted that the dynamic between Thia and Dek was inspired by the video game "Shadow of the Colossus." He explained that in the game, the protagonist is paired with another character to add "life and connection." Trachtenberg found the horse in "Shadow of the Colossus" to be particularly special and compelling, which sparked the idea of pairing the Predator with a character who is his polar opposite. He described the Predator as a character of few words, contrasting with Fanning's character. Trachtenberg added that Thia possesses talents the Predator lacks, highlighting her physical prowess, and said he's excited for audiences to witness it but wants to keep some surprises for the movie itself.
(Image: 20th Century Studios)
"Predator: Badlands" is set to hit theaters on November 7, 2025. The film, set in the near future, is penned by Trachtenberg alongside his "Prey" co-writer Patrick Aison. Elle Fanning stars as Thia, with Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi portraying the Predator, Dek. As for whether any other major human characters will appear, Trachtenberg remained tight-lipped.
via： Bloody Disgusting