Hulu has expanded its offerings with the release of “Predator: Badlands,” a new addition to the iconic franchise. Directed by Dan Trachtenberg, this film builds on the success of the previous installments, including 2022’s “Prey” and the animated anthology “Predator: Killer of Killers,” both well-received by audiences. With a budget of $105 million and ticket sales reaching $184 million globally, “Badlands” promises an entertaining experience.
Plot Overview
The narrative of “Predator: Badlands” shifts focus to the Yautja species, known for their ruthless hunting capabilities. The protagonist, Dek, played by Dimitrius Schuster-Kolomatangi, embarks on a journey to prove his worth in a harsh warrior society. The film opens with Dek and his brother, Kwei (Mike Homik), engaging in brutal sibling rivalry that culminates in tragedy.
Escaping patriarchal oppression, Dek flees to the treacherous planet of Genna, where he seeks to hunt the formidable kalisk beast. The environment poses lethal challenges, filled with sharp and carnivorous creatures, creating a perilous backdrop for his quest.
The Companions
- Thia: Played by Elle Fanning, she is an upper-half humanoid android who brings humor and emotional depth to the story. Thia assists Dek in navigating Genna, providing critical knowledge of its dangers.
- Bud: A whimsical frog-ape creature that accompanies Dek and Thia, adding a dose of charm to the narrative.
This unlikely trio navigates through danger, showcasing a dynamic balance between Dek’s gruff demeanor and Thia’s comedic, upbeat personality. Together, they confront various dangers while exploring themes of identity and familial connections.
Cinematic Comparisons and Reception
Fans of previous installments may find parallels with classic films like “Aliens” and modern Godzilla features. “Predator: Badlands” has been well-received, reaching noteworthy acclaim as a standout in the franchise since its early days with Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Elle Fanning’s performance has particularly garnered praise, noted for her exceptional timing and ability to engage the audience emotionally. The film ultimately maintains an entertaining balance between action and character development, steering clear of overused tropes about teamwork.
Visuals and Production Quality
Visually, “Predator: Badlands” excels, utilizing a combination of CGI and practical effects to create immersive landscapes reminiscent of epic fantasies like “Avatar” and “Lord of the Rings.” The film prioritizes character relationships over sheer spectacle, delivering thoughtful narrative twists and engaging humor.
Conclusion: Should You Stream or Skip ‘Predator: Badlands’?
“Predator: Badlands” successfully reinvigorates the franchise with its fresh perspective and engaging characters. Despite concerns over its PG-13 rating, the film delivers significant entertainment value without relying on excessive violence. Prospective viewers can take advantage of Hulu’s 30-day free trial to experience this addition to the Predator saga.
How to Watch
New viewers can start with Hulu’s free trial, transitioning to a monthly subscription of $10.99 for the ad-supported plan or $18.99 for an ad-free experience. Consider the Disney+ bundles for added value, which include Hulu subscriptions at rates starting from $12.99 per month.
