Predator: Badlands Director Reveals 'Death Planet,' New Aliens

The debut trailer for Predator: Badlands has raised intriguing questions among fans, particularly about the redesigned appearance of the new Predator.

Director Dan Trachtenberg shared exclusive insights with Bloody Disgusting, detailing his fresh approach to the iconic sci-fi hunter.

Introducing Dek, portrayed by Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi—an underdog Yautja runt breaking tradition as the film's protagonist, unlike previous Predator antagonists.

Dek stakes his claim on Kalisk, a lethal "Death Planet," battling to earn his father's respect and gain acceptance within his clan.

Distinct from predecessors, Dek's noticeably more humanoid appearance and smaller stature reflect his unconventional role as an unlikely hero.

While Predator: Badlands centers on Dek's journey, Elle Fanning co-stars as a mysterious character bearing striking resemblance to Alien franchise synthetics.

Trachtenberg drew inspiration from Shadow of the Colossus when crafting Dek's dynamic with Fanning's character.

"Games like Shadow of the Colossus influenced me profoundly," Trachtenberg noted. "That emotional bond between protagonist and companion mirrors Predator: Badlands—these contrasting personalities complement each other."

"Fanning's character possesses extraordinary abilities that counterbalance Dek's strengths. While she's expressive, he's reserved. Their partnership reveals surprising dimensions I can't wait audiences to discover."

The director remained coy about Alien connections, teasing: "Their pairing introduces a compelling narrative hook we're keeping under wraps."

Predator: Badlands premieres November 7, 2025, following Trachtenberg's animated anthology Predator: Killer of Killers this June.