Dan Trachtenberg's "Predator: Badlands"
Movie Review by Dennis D. McDonald
In the first half of Predator: Badlands, we’re reminded of one of the most hostile environments ever put on film—the eerie, toxic landscapes of Scavenger’s Reign.
That said, Predator: Badlands successfully blends a variety of science fiction tropes in a unique and satisfying way, featuring:
A troubled hero banished to a remote location in search of redemption
A damaged robot that provides wisecracking companionship
A “cute” alien that turns out to be more than it seems
Gorgeous photography and stunning special effects
A climax that combines intricate action choreography with flashes of visual humor
A major nod to the ever-ominous Weyland-Yutani Corporation
A punch line worthy of a sequel
My friend Charlie thought it was “silly.” Parts of it are. But if you have an itch for clever, kinetic sci-fi action that really needs scratching, you can’t go wrong with Predator: Badlands!
This, together with Trachtenberg’s Predator: Killer of Killers or Prey would make for a very satisfying double bill!
Review © 2025 by Dennis D. McDonald
