Prepare for Action: 'Predator: Badlands' Smashes Records
Attention all Predator fans, buckle up! The galaxy's ultimate hunter is back, and it's dominating the box office like never before. 'Predator: Badlands' has unleashed a whirlwind of action, securing the biggest global opening for a Predator movie ever, eclipsing even the legendary 'Alien vs. Predator' films.
Directed by the visionary Dan Trachtenberg—who already reinvigorated the franchise with 2022's retro-styled 'Prey'—'Badlands' delivers a fresh, sci-fi action-packed punch that critics are raving about. With IGN rating it a solid 8/10, it's clear this beast means business.
Disney has confirmed that the predator phenomenon opened with a colossal $40 million domestically and another $40 million internationally, totaling a jaw-dropping $80 million worldwide. To put this in perspective, 2018's 'The Predator' managed $73.5 million on its opening, making 'Badlands' the new alpha in town.
Since the original 1987's 'Predator'—starring action icon Arnold Schwarzenegger—this series has been a cult favorite. However, 'Predator: Badlands' takes a new path, trading some of its sci-fi horror roots for an adrenaline-fueled sci-fi action vibe. And guess what? This time, the Predator is the hero!
Meet Dek, our Yautja protagonist played by Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi, on a thrilling quest to prove his mettle. Enter Elle Fanning as Thia, a Weyland-Yutani synth in a wild Alien/Predator crossover that fans can't get enough of.
For Trachtenberg, revitalizing the saga meant dodging a dusty remake. His inspiration? None other than 'Terminator 2: Judgment Day.' Trachtenberg explained, "Terminator 2 was something even my mom could watch. I wanted 'Badlands' to be bold, emotional, and spectacular." And spectacular it is!
What's next, you ask? As Trachtenberg's Predator universe kicks off with a roar, fans are already dreaming of sequels, inspired by tantalizing teasers like the one at the end of 'Killer of Killers.' Could we see an all-star alignment soon?
'Predator: Badlands' positions itself perfectly for follow-ups, leaving us on the edge of our seats. Ready for more action? Dive into IGN's 'Predator: Badlands Ending Explained' and don’t miss what's coming next.
Which is your favorite Predator movie? Is it the classic 'Predator,' the sequel showdown, or the new-age 'Badlands'? Cast your vote!
Wesley is Director, News at IGN. Follow him on Twitter at @wyp100 or drop a line at wesley_yinpoole@ign.com.