The monster is back for more: the teaser trailer for the upcoming sci-fi action sequel, Predator: Badlands, has just been unleashed online.
In the gripping sneak peek, we're introduced to Elle Fanning's character, who seems to inhabit a perilous future on a remote planet. What sets this film apart is the Predator she encounters, which appears to be unlike any we've seen before—potentially even serving as the protagonist. "The director of Prey welcomes you to a world of pain," the teaser ominously promises.
Apart from this unique Predator, there are intriguing hints at the Alien universe, sparking speculation that Badlands might be paving the way for a new Aliens vs Predator movie. We catch a glimpse of Fanning's eyes flashing with the iconic Weyland Yutani reboot effect seen in Alien: Romulus, hinting that she might be a synthetic. Additionally, there's a brief shot of the Weyland Yutani logo—the sinister megacorporation central to the Alien franchise—on a damaged vehicle.
That's the Weyland Yutani logo on Elle Fanning's eyes. Is she a synth?
Predator: Badlands was first announced in February 2024, with its release date confirmed in October of the same year. The trailer made its exclusive debut at CinemaCon earlier this month, and this marks the first time fans can get a sneak peek at what's in store.
At CinemaCon, 20th Century Studios released an official synopsis for the film, stating: “In the future on a remote planet, a young Predator, outcast from his clan, finds an unlikely ally in Thia and embarks on a treacherous journey in search of the ultimate adversary.”
"Something unprecedented happens in this movie," Elle Fanning shared with the audience at CinemaCon. "My character is not the one being chased. My character actually teams up with the Predator. And you get to see him in a completely new light. And... I'll stop there!"
Directed by Dan Trachtenberg, known for his work on 10 Cloverfield Lane and the Predator prequel Prey, the film was co-written with Patrick Aison. Predator: Badlands is slated to hit theaters on November 7, 2025.
