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Predator: Badlands Could Be the AVP Reboot We’ve Been Waiting For
Jul
Elle Fanning is no stranger to sci-fi. But in Predator: Badlands, she takes on her most intense role yet — as Thia, a Weyland-Yutani android stranded on a deadly alien planet.
The Predator franchise last appeared on screen with Prey, which took viewers back to the 1700s. That film followed Comanche warrior Naru as she faced off against a single Predator. The historical setting gave the franchise a fresh angle. However, Badlands moves in the opposite direction — far into the future, on a hostile world where survival is uncertain.
A World Where Everything Is Trying to Kill You
In the trailer, Thia lands on a dangerous planet. There, she crosses paths with Dek, a young Predator exiled from his clan. The two must navigate a landscape filled with killer plants and flying alien beasts.
At first, Dek doesn’t seem interested in teaming up. In fact, one shot shows him lifting Thia’s damaged body by the neck. Still, their fragile alliance may be the only hope either of them has. Over time, they may need to trust each other — or die trying.
An Unexpected Alliance, with AVP Potential
Predators are known for being ruthless hunters. Yet in Badlands, we see one out of his element. For once, a Predator needs help. That twist alone gives this film a unique edge.
Fans may remember that Alien vs. Predator explored similar themes. However, Badlands looks deeper. It focuses on survival, not just spectacle. That shift could set the stage for a smarter, stronger AVP reboot down the line.
The Team Behind the Hunt
Badlands is directed by Dan Trachtenberg, who also helmed Prey. The production team includes Jon Davis, Marc Toberoff, Ben Rosenblatt, and Brent O’Connorby. Their past work includes titles like Star Trek: Into Darkness, The Predator, and Venom: Let There Be Carnage.
With that crew and Fanning in the lead, expectations are high. The early buzz is promising.
Mark Your Calendar: November 7
Predator: Badlands opens exclusively in theaters on November 7. It’s not officially an Alien vs. Predator film, but the influence is clear. Weyland-Yutani, Predators, hostile planets — the building blocks are all in place.
In short, this film could be the first step toward a long-awaited AVP revival. One that finally gets it right.
