<p>“Predator: Badlands” is one of those rare movies. You already expect something good after “Prey,” but then you watch this and it turns out to be one of the most satisfying action films of the year. Disney clearly believed in it too, bumping the budget to about 105 million, which is a big jump from “Prey’s” 65 million.Dan Trachtenberg is officially three for three. “Prey,” “Killer of Killers,” (also released in2025, on Hulu and awesome) and now “Badlands.” He delivers a confident, fast, beautifully paced movie that never wastes a moment. It also works as a complete standalone. No homework required. You don’t need to be a Predator fan or even a sci-fi fan. The movie just pulls you in as a flat-out fun, kickass action experience.The details are great. The runtime is a perfect one hour and forty-seven minutes. The movie lightly introduces Yautja culture without slowing anything down, and the world-building is clear, exciting, and leaves the door open for the future. There’s even a subtle crossover nod that never pulls focus.Elle Fanning is incredible. Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi brings a whole new life to the Predator character, making it both terrifying and surprisingly sympathetic. The Kalisk creature is a very fun addition. The invented language is a cool touch. And the villain is genuinely strong without giving anything away.The sound design is excellent, the VFX are top tier, and New Zealand looks unbelievable on screen. Trachtenberg blends real landscapes with massive effects in a way that makes the world feel alive.If there’s one small con: you just hope the crossover tease doesn’t jinx the success the movie has earned so far.“Badlands” is in theaters now and will likely hit digital platforms in December and stream on Hulu or Disney+ in early 2026.</p>
