UPDATE: The highly anticipated film, Predator: Badlands, is set to deliver a fresh storyline without the need for extensive prior viewing of the Alien and Predator franchises. Director Dan Trachtenberg confirmed this exciting news in an interview with IGN today, ensuring fans can dive into the action without feeling overwhelmed by the franchise’s history.
In a time when cinematic universes often require viewers to complete “homework,” Trachtenberg emphasizes that Predator: Badlands stands alone. He stated, “We’re not trying to squeeze [it] in,” highlighting that the film is set far into the future, allowing it to operate independently of previous films. The director admitted that while he was aware of other projects like Alien: Romulus and Alien: Earth, they did not influence the storyline for Badlands.
The film features Elle Fanning as Thia, a character connected to the infamous Weyland-Yutani corporation, known for its role in the Alien series. Trachtenberg reassured fans that the events of earlier films occurred long before the timeline of Predator: Badlands. “You’re going to have to remind yourself, where in a timeline does this sit between this movie and that movie? And I really do not want that to be the case with Badlands,” he expressed.
This news comes as a relief to dedicated fans who may have felt the pressure to watch all related content before enjoying the new film. Trachtenberg’s creative decision allows audiences to focus on the thrilling aspects of the film — including deadly Xenomorphs and a relentless Predator — without the burden of connecting every dot in an expansive universe.
As anticipation builds for the release of Predator: Badlands, set to premiere in 2024, fans can look forward to an exhilarating experience that prioritizes entertainment over extensive lore. This approach not only invites newcomers into the franchise but also revitalizes the excitement for long-time followers.
What to watch for next: As the release date approaches, keep an eye out for trailers and promotional content that will offer glimpses into the action-packed sequences and character developments. The buzz surrounding the film is sure to ramp up as fans prepare for a standalone adventure in the Predator universe.
Stay tuned for more updates as we learn about the film’s premiere and further details from the production team.
