Summary
The newPredatormovieBadlandshas cast its main star. ThePredatorseries began in 1987 with the film of the same name, featuring Arnold Schwarzengger in the lead role. Since then, the franchise has had numerous other entries, most recently with Dan Trachtenberg’sPreyin 2022. Following this film, anotherPredatoruniverse movie,titledBadlands, was announced to be in development.
As perDeadline,Badlandswill find its leading star in Elle Fanning. According to the source, Fanning is currently in negotiations to star in the standalonePredatorfranchise film. 20th Century Studios has not yet commented on the casting, meaning that it is not yet confirmed, but seems quite likely. The plot is under wraps forBadlands, so the nature of Fanning’s role is also not yet determined.
Can Badlands Stand Up To Other Predator Films?
Prey Received Great Reviews
Fanning is an acclaimed young actor who hasbeen prominent in Hollywood since she was a child. While her earlier roles include movies such asSuper 8andMaleficent, she is more recently known for playing Catherine the Great in theHulu seriesThe Great. Fanning’s work has been widely praised, earning her an Emmy nomination in 2022 for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series. In the action and horror film realm, Fanning’s past credits includeGalvestonandThe Neon Demon.
Badlandsis situated in a tough spot within thePredatorfranchise. The original film is iconic in its own right for its over-the-top nature and defining performance from an ‘80s-era Schwarzenegger. Trachtenberg’s 2022 franchise film,Prey, stood out significantly from the originalPredatorand its immediate sequels.Also taking on an independent story, the film features a Comanche woman at its core, telling a compelling story. This originality was well-received, withPreygetting positive reviews, including a 94% Tomatometer and a 74% audience approval rating.
New Predator Movie’s Setting Can Finally Answer A 14-Year-Old Franchise Mystery
Dan Trachtenberg’s Badlands looks set to take the Predator franchise into the future, and in doing so can finally resolve a long-running mystery.
GivenPrey’s success,Badlandshas a tough act to follow. The fact that Trachtenberg is returning forBadlandsis one good sign, indicating that there will be a similar creative spirit for this second film, but it will also mean that there is a lot of pressure on him to perform. Those who follow the franchise may expectBadlandsto have the same kind of freshness asPrey, as hard as that may be to achieve. Fanning is a seasoned actor who has performed in a large array of roles, so her casting is at least one positive start.
Predator: Badlands
Cast
Predator: Badlands is a science fiction film set for release in 2025, building on the longstanding Predator franchise.
