Latest Predator: Badlands teaser trailer confirms November release; offers gut-wrenching first look

20th Century Studios has released the first teaser trailer for Predator: Badlands, the latest installment in the iconic sci-fi franchise. Directed by Dan Trachtenberg, the creative genius behind films like Prey and 10 Cloverfield Lane, the film is set for a theatrical and IMAX release this November.

The teaser introduces a fresh narrative twist by positioning the Predator as the protagonist. The story follows Dek, a young Predator outcast from his clan, portrayed by Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi. Stranded on a perilous planet, Dek forms an unexpected alliance with Thia, a human played by Elle Fanning, to confront a formidable adversary that challenges both their survival instincts.

We get to meet Elle Fanning's character in the teaser video, who seems to be a citizen of a deadly distant planet in the future. She meets the Predator, who is far different than the ones that have appeared throughout the franchise. The teaser hints that he's on the search for someone and as Fanning's character says:

"You're hunting something that can't be killed."

As the planet succumbs to destruction under the hands of a new, far more dangerous killer, we see the Predator in full action as he gets all ready to attack this new enemy. If all the previous films had you wondering what could be worse than the Predators, this one will fulfill your curiosity and answer your questions.

What is Predator: Badlands about?

Still from Predator: Badlands (Image via YouTube/@20thCenturyStudio)

The new film marks a significant departure from previous entries in the series, offering audiences a deeper exploration of the Predator's perspective. Trachtenberg aims to add newer perspectives to the franchise's premise by making the Predator a part of the opposite side as he has a face off against a new enemy. The visuals in the trailer are haunting, eerie and aesthetically dark, promising a captivating watch as we go back to the vicious world of the extraterrestrial creatures.

The synopsis of the film reads:

"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."

More details on Predator: Badlands

The new angle to the franchise is taking a unique take on the Predator, making it the central figure to the story. It will certainly bring out nuanced perspective as we get to side with the Predator as he hunts down his enemies.

Director Trachtenberg previously spoke about this new angle and told Empire:

“The creature is front and centre, leading the charge. He’s still badass, but there’s something there that touches you emotionally, too. Creating a character you connect with, but are also super-intimidated by, has been challenging. But exciting.”

He further added how the new film will let the audience:

"root for a hero we rarely get to root for — but in a different way. And that transformed into this big idea of rooting for the Predator.”

As for Elle Fanning, she plays the Predator's ally in this one and the actress told the audience during CinemaCon that the film will explore the curious answer to the question, “What if the Predator was a good guy?”

She further added:

“Something unprecedented happens in this movie, and my character is not the one being chased. My character actually teams up with the Predator, and you get to see him in a whole new light."

Predator: Badlands releases in theaters on November 7, 2025.