‘Predator: Badlands’ a Sweet, Queer Twist on the Franchise?

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Fans are reacting to a recent review in The Hollywood Reporter of Predator: Badlands, with many surprised and pleased by its approach. Some are calling it a surprisingly gentle addition to the Predator series, and others are openly discussing the possibility that this installment features queer representation.

A Kinder, Gentler Predator

As reported by THR’s Richard Lawson, the film centers on Dek (Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi), a young member of the Yautja species who is picked on by his father for being seen as weak and overly emotional—and potentially gay.

Dek isn’t the ruthless hunter you might expect. Instead, he discovers the importance of empathy and finds a new family with an android who uses prosthetics (played by Elle Fanning) and an adorable alien companion. Author Lawson describes the story as a science fiction adventure geared towards young adults.

Lawson commends director Dan Trachtenberg for giving the Predator series a softer, more heartwarming feel. He explains that the new film focuses more on emotional connection, comedy, and camaraderie than the original movies’ intense, frightening atmosphere.

“This Predator Is Queer and We Should Say It”

The critic argues that the new Predator film embraces queerness and should be acknowledged as such. He playfully suggests the protagonist could easily fit into a musical or thrive in New York City, highlighting the film’s generally lighter mood and underlying themes of identity.

Fans familiar with the Predator’s reputation for intense scares and graphic violence might find this new approach to be a big change – and one that doesn’t quite match up with the creature’s past as a truly terrifying movie monster.

From Killer to Comfort Character

Lawson acknowledges that Badlands makes the Predator franchise more appealing and less frightening, even suggesting some scenes feel like they belong in a Pixar movie. He appreciates the film’s intelligence and craftsmanship, but ultimately believes it’s shifted the Predator from a terrifying monster to a more sympathetic – and perhaps even likable – character.

As a longtime fan of the original Predator, this new direction feels… different. Seeing how far it’s strayed from what made the first film so special makes me question if Hollywood has lost some of its edge. Honestly, I think I already know the answer. It’s just not the same gritty, intense experience I remember loving.

Predator: Badlands opens Thursday with previews and officially on Friday.

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2025-11-06 02:31