Badlands Trailer Unveils Unique New Predator

The iconic hunter returns: The official teaser trailer for the upcoming sci-fi action sequel Predator: Badlands has just been released online.

In the chilling preview below, we're introduced to star Elle Fanning's character, who appears to be surviving on a perilous off-world colony. What makes this installment unique is that the Predator she encounters seems fundamentally different - possibly even serving as the story's unlikely hero. "The director of Prey welcomes you to a world of pain," the teaser ominously declares.

Beyond featuring this redesigned Predator, the trailer contains several intriguing connections to the Alien universe, fueling speculation that Badlands might lay groundwork for a future Alien vs. Predator crossover. Most notably, Fanning's eye transformation mirrors the synthetic reveal effect seen in Alien: Romulus, hinting she might be an android. Even more telling is a brief shot showing the unmistakable Weyland-Yutani corporate logo - the sinister conglomerate central to the Alien saga - emblazoned on wrecked machinery.

Originally announced in development back in February 2024, Predator: Badlands had its release date confirmed eight months later. While CinemaCon attendees got an exclusive first look earlier this month, this marks the trailer's official public debut.

Studio representatives shared the official synopsis at CinemaCon: "On a distant planet in humanity's future, an exiled young Predator forms an unexpected alliance with a human settler named Thia as they undertake a dangerous quest to confront their ultimate nemesis."

"This film breaks new ground for the franchise," Fanning revealed during the CinemaCon presentation. "For the first time, my character isn't the prey - she actually partners with the Predator. Audiences will experience this legendary creature in ways they've never imagined. But I shouldn't say more!"

Director Dan Trachtenberg (10 Cloverfield Lane, Prey) helms the project, co-writing the screenplay with Patrick Aison. Predator: Badlands is scheduled for theatrical release on November 7, 2025.