Predator: Badlands - What We Know So Far + Release Date
Is the hunt about to change? Predator: Badlands promises a thrilling shift, positioning the iconic extraterrestrial hunter as the protagonist, a bold move that could redefine the franchise.
The anticipation is palpable. The latest installment in the Predator saga, titled Badlands, is slated to stalk into theaters on November 7, 2025. This date marks a significant departure from the release strategy of its predecessor, Prey, which bypassed the big screen entirely, opting for a direct release on streaming platforms. Fans can expect a similar digital availability for Badlands, with a release anticipated on Hulu and Disney+ a few weeks following its theatrical debut.
While the excitement builds, and the cinematic world waits with bated breath, an official trailer has yet to materialize. However, details are steadily emerging, painting a picture of what promises to be a unique and compelling addition to the Predator legacy. Dan Trachtenberg, the visionary director behind the critically acclaimed Prey, is at the helm once more, and the talented Elle Fanning is confirmed to star.
| Movie Title | Predator: Badlands |
| Release Date | November 7, 2025 |
| Director | Dan Trachtenberg |
| Lead Actress | Elle Fanning |
| Genre | Science Fiction Action |
| Setting | Future, Alien Planets |
| Franchise Standing | Seventh film in the mainline Predator series, ninth overall. |
| Production Company | 20th Century Studios |
| Standalone Film | Yes, not a sequel to Prey |
| Streaming Release | Expected on Hulu and Disney+ after theatrical run |
Predator: Badlands is conceived as a standalone film, separate from Prey 2, offering a fresh narrative perspective. Set in a futuristic setting, the story will unfold on one or several alien planets, promising a visual feast of uncharted territories. In August 2024, whispers suggested that the plot would be divided between two main story arcs, increasing the potential for intrigue.
The release date, revealed in October 2024, had previously been earmarked for another 20th Century Studios/Disney project, the Marvel Cinematic Universe's Blade, which has since been delayed without specific details. The production largely took place in New Zealand, with filming commencing on August 27, 2024, adding to the buzz surrounding the movie's progress.
This shift in narrative, as confirmed by director Dan Trachtenberg, is not just a change in scenery, but a fundamental alteration to the franchise's core. The titular Predator will step into the spotlight as the primary protagonist. This promises a fresh take, moving away from the traditional perspective of human prey and offering a deeper understanding of the iconic creature and its motives.
The anticipation is further fueled by the tantalizing prospect of seeing the iconic, terrifying Predator in a whole new light. As the film promises, "The predator is one ugly son of a bitch and he's back."
20th Century Studios is behind the film and will be distributing this latest installment to the franchise. With the director of Prey back at the helm, the film is set to hit theaters across the United States on November 7, 2025. The film is the seventh in the mainline series and ninth overall, and is highly anticipated as one of 20th Century Studios most exciting action movies of 2025.
The narrative will deviate from the norm, casting the monstrous alien hunter as the central figure, a decision that could redefine the saga's future. This is a distinct project from the plans for Prey 2, providing a separate storyline and a unique cinematic experience.
The production has been shrouded in secrecy, but clues from various sources have hinted at the potential narrative. Moreover, the confirmation from 20th Century Studios and the director solidify its status as a forthcoming release. The film is also set to be released in theaters across the United States on November 7, 2025, which has further fueled the anticipation of the film.
Director Dan Trachtenberg's return to the franchise after his successful work on Prey speaks volumes. It seems he has big plans to alter how the franchise works, including making the Predator the protagonist. In the film, Elle Fanning, star of Super 8, is said to be playing a complex dual role, portraying the sisters Thia and Tessa, who have opposing personalities.
As the most recent trailer reveals, fans were given some story details and action, and could have missed a major reference to the Alien franchise. The film is slated to give fans their best look yet at the monstrous creatures that have terrified us for generations.
The movie is set to give fans their best look yet at the monstrous creatures that have terrified us for generations. This new Predator film, a standalone entry in the franchise, is directed by the same director that also directed the movie, Prey.
A first look at Predator: Badlands has already been shared at Cinemacon, and this Yautja not only looks quite a bit different, but will be portrayed in a whole new light, according to lead star Elle Fanning. It's a promise of a thrilling new narrative, and a fresh perspective on the creature that has haunted our nightmares for decades. The excitement for November 7, 2025, continues to build.
