The wait is over — the iconic extraterrestrial hunter returns in a bold new chapter of the legendary franchise with the release of the teaser trailer for *Predator: Badlands*. Now streaming online, the trailer introduces audiences to a reimagined world where the Predator may no longer be the villain.
In this first-look footage, we’re introduced to Elle Fanning’s character Thia, a resilient inhabitant of a harsh and distant future planet. As seen in the visuals, she forms an unexpected alliance — not with a human, but with a young Predator who has been exiled from his own kind. The dynamic between the two hints at a fresh narrative approach, suggesting that this particular Predator might just be the story’s central figure.
The teaser boldly proclaims, “The director of *Prey* welcomes you to a world of pain,” setting the tone for what promises to be a thrilling sci-fi action experience. Beyond its ties to the *Predator* universe, the trailer also delivers subtle yet unmistakable references to the *Alien* franchise. Fans were quick to notice visual parallels reminiscent of *Alien: Romulus*, particularly in the way Fanning’s eyes reflect a synthetic-like quality similar to that of Andy’s in the aforementioned film. Even more intriguing is the appearance of the Weyland Yutani logo — the infamous megacorporation central to the *Alien* series — visible on a wrecked vehicle within the backdrop of the desolate terrain.
This tease of *Predator: Badlands* made its debut earlier this month at CinemaCon, though this marks the first opportunity fans worldwide have had to witness the footage. Alongside the trailer drop came an official synopsis from 20th Century Studios:
“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.”
Elle Fanning shared her excitement about the film’s unconventional direction during the CinemaCon presentation. “Something unprecedented happens in this movie,” she revealed. “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 *10 Cloverfield Lane* and the critically acclaimed *Predator* prequel *Prey* — and co-written with Patrick Aison, *Predator: Badlands* brings a new perspective to the storied franchise. With its fusion of futuristic world-building, deep lore connections, and a never-before-seen take on the Predator itself, anticipation is building rapidly.
Mark your calendars: *Predator: Badlands* storms into theaters on [ttpp]November 7, 2025[/ttpp].