‘Predator: Badlands’ Boasts Top-Notch Action and Phenomenal Performances

Predator: Badlands Boasts Top-Notch Action and Phenomenal Performances – Review

The latest installment in the Predator franchise, directed by Dan Trachtenberg, brings audiences deeper into the world of the Yautja with Predator: Badlands. This thrilling new chapter expands the larger narrative and explores the code of honour and survival mentality of the Yautja.

The Yautja Code and Dek’s Journey

For the Yautja, any sign of weakness is one of the greatest flaws, opposing their strict code of honour and survival-of-the-fittest mentality. This code governs their behavior and shapes their social hierarchy. Dek (Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi), a young Yautja smaller than his peers, is cast out by his clan and sets off on a dangerous journey to the remote planet Genna.

A Predator No Longer at the Top

Used to dominating the food chain, Dek quickly realizes that on Genna he is no longer the hunter but the hunted. The planet forces him into a new reality where he must fight for survival against unseen threats.

An Unlikely Ally

Dek meets Thia (Elle Fanning), a damaged synthetic also stranded on Genna. Despite her condition, Thia proves a valuable partner, offering Dek the skills and insights he lacks to navigate the hostile environment.

"To the Yautja, weakness of any kind is one of the most significant flaws, as it goes against their code of honour and their survival-of-the-fittest mentality."

"As the top predator becomes prey, Dek finds an unlikely ally in Thia, a damaged synthetic also stranded on this perilous planet."

Author’s summary: Predator: Badlands delivers intense action and compelling performances while exploring themes of survival and honor through the struggles of an outcast Yautja and his unexpected ally.

Muses of Media — 2025-11-07