Get ready, Predator fans! The upcoming film Predator: Badlands is set to ignite the franchise with a subtle yet significant crossover with the Alien universe. This news has sent ripples of excitement through the sci-fi community, promising a fresh take on the iconic series. But how exactly will these two worlds collide? And could a familiar face be returning? Let's dive in!
Dan Trachtenberg, the 2x Emmy-nominated writer and director, has masterfully woven elements of the Alien franchise into Predator: Badlands. The film, which hits theaters on November 7th, goes beyond the typical 'versus' approach seen in Alien vs. Predator (2004) and Aliens vs Predator – Requiem (2007). Instead of a direct clash, Trachtenberg has chosen a more nuanced integration.
"Badlands itself is definitely a crossover in that we have the Weyland-Yutani corporation as a huge part of the movie," Trachtenberg explained. Elle Fanning will portray a Weyland-Yutani synth, adding a layer of complexity to the narrative. "I thought it was really cool to just take an element from one franchise and fuse it with this one," he added, highlighting the strategic approach.
The story centers around Dek, a young Predator from the Yautja clan, who finds himself cast out. He forms an unlikely alliance with Thia, a damaged synth played by Fanning, to prove his worth and overcome a formidable enemy. Producer Ben Rosenblatt described the inclusion of the Alien element as a "super organic" decision, born from the franchises' "spiritual connection." This approach allowed the filmmakers to explore the crossover without relying on a human protagonist, which would have immediately shifted the audience's focus.
But here's where it gets controversial... Rosenblatt also dropped a major hint about the potential return of Arnold Schwarzenegger as Dutch from the original Predator (1987). After a recent animated cameo in Predator: Killer of Killers, the possibility of Schwarzenegger reprising his iconic role has fans buzzing. "Obviously, the holy grail of Predator movies would be getting Arnold back in there," Rosenblatt admitted. "Arnold and Dan have met a couple of times now. He’s been really interested in what we’re doing." Excitingly, the team is hoping to have more concrete plans after Predator: Badlands is released.
And this is the part most people miss... The subtle integration of Alien elements, the focus on character-driven storytelling, and the potential return of Schwarzenegger all point to a Predator film that could redefine the franchise. What are your thoughts on this approach? Do you think the crossover will work? Are you excited about the possibility of Arnold's return? Share your opinions in the comments below!
