Predator Is a RUNT?! ‘Badlands’ Trailer SHOCKS Fans!

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On Wednesday, the trailer for Predator: Badlands was unveiled, revealing a brand-new Predator design that has sparked widespread criticism across the internet.

Once more, the movie has been directed by Dan Trachtenberg, known for helming the “Prey” Predator film featuring a teenage Comanche warrior who successfully eliminates the creature.

Here’s another option:

Dan Trachtenberg, who made the Predator “Prey” movie with the young Comanche Warrior defeating the creature, is at it again with this upcoming film.

Here’s one more:

The director of the teenage Comanche warrior vs. Predator film, Dan Trachtenberg, returns for another project in this upcoming movie.

In the storyline of “Badlands“, there’s an interesting change in the established narrative since this time, the Predator character transforms into a heroic figure named “Dek.

New details revealed

After the trailer unveiling, Trachtenberg shared fresh insights about the Predator in Badlands during an interview with Bloody Disgusting.

Runt of the litter

In the trailer, the depicted version of Predator is described as a smaller or weaker one, similar to the term “runt” used for the smallest or least robust animal in a litter, such as puppies, kittens, or baby pigs.

In the film Badlands, portraying the Predator suggests something akin to the idea that Dek is the least powerful among his species. Given this, it’s reasonable to assume that Dek might be defying his kind due to an unsupportive father who perceives him as weak. Instead, Dek seems to be striving for acceptance within his own clan.

Predator is now the prey

Trachtenberg teases a bit of the plot:

I aimed to create a unique and distinct atmosphere for ‘[Predator: Badlands]’, an alternate take on the franchise where the Predator finds himself as the one being hunted instead of the hunter, this time on another planet.

What about the VFX?

Moreover, Trachtenberg unveils intriguing insights about the visual aspects, such as how Weta Digital, a well-known pioneer in digital visual effects and computer animation, was responsible for creating the appearance of the small Predator.

An interesting aspect of our work is that we make sure the digital effects align with the costumes, rather than the texture of the creature itself.

The texture of this animated ‘flesh’ differs from a regular suit. Therefore, our digital face seamlessly integrates and harmonizes with the quality of the suit, aiming to appear as if it’s made of genuine material.

Who is the actor that plays the new Predator?

Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi, formerly a basketball player, has been cast in the role of the new Predator. Far from being small or weak, this actor stands tall in his new position.

During one of our auditions, Dimitrius appeared with an impressive pirate-like grace. To test his abilities, we devised a challenging physical obstacle course, which ultimately led to his selection.

Release info

Predator: Badlands hits theaters and IMAX on November 7, 2025 and also stars Elle Fanning.

In “Predator: Badlands,” a young Predator finds himself banished from his tribe and joins forces with Thia (played by Fanning). Together, they embark on a perilous journey to confront an unprecedented foe – a formidable new adversary.

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2025-04-25 23:01