Badlands trailer reveals unique Predator

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

The brief preview introduces Elle Fanning's character, who appears to inhabit a perilous future colony on a distant planet. However, this time, the Predator she encounters seems fundamentally different—possibly even assuming the role of protagonist. "The director of Prey welcomes you to a world of pain," declares the ominous teaser.

Beyond this redesigned Predator, the trailer includes subtle nods to the Alien universe, fueling speculation that Badlands might pave the way for a new Aliens vs. Predator installment. Fanning's eyes undergo the same visual distortion seen in Andy's synthetic eyes from Alien: Romulus, hinting she may be artificial. An additional scene reveals the infamous Weyland-Yutani corporate logo on wreckage—the notorious megacorp behind many catastrophes in the Alien saga.

Predator: Badlands entered development in February 2024, with its release date confirmed later that October. While the trailer initially premiered at CinemaCon earlier this month, this marks its first public availability.

At CinemaCon, 20th Century Studios shared an official synopsis: "On a desolate future world, an exiled young Predator forms an unexpected alliance with a woman named Thia. Together, they undertake a perilous quest to confront the ultimate opponent."

"This film breaks new ground," Fanning told attendees. "My character isn't the prey—she teams up with the Predator. You'll see him in a way nobody has before. That’s all I can say!"

Dan Trachtenberg, director of 10 Cloverfield Lane and the acclaimed Prey, helms this installment from a screenplay co-written with Patrick Aison. Predator: Badlands arrives in theaters November 7, 2025.