Predator: Badlands shocked audiences with its surprise ending just 24 hours after hitting theaters on Nov. 7, 2025. Director Dan Trachtenberg teases a sequel with a bold new threat. The film stars Elle Fanning alongside Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi as the outcasts on alien planet Yautja Prime.
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🔥 Quick Facts:
- Predator: Badlands earned $4.8 million Thursday night previews.
- Director Dan Trachtenberg teases a sequel with a new antagonist emerging.
- Budget reaches $105 million, franchise record investment from 20th Century Studios.
- Hollywood critics praise the film’s 86% Rotten Tomatoes score with fresh reviews.
- Streaming eventually on Hulu and Disney+ after theatrical run concludes.
What Fans Missed in the Shocking Ending
The ninth Predator franchise entry culminates with an unexpected twist that resets expectations entirely. Dek, the young outcast Predator, defeats the Alpha threat hunting him across Yautja Prime.
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But the real shock hits when credits roll and a brief post-credits scene emerges. A mysterious new force appears on the horizon. Trachtenberg crafted this moment specifically to hint at future franchise expansion.
“Director Dan Trachtenberg hints at a possible sequel with a new threat.”
The revelations shocked diehard fans within hours of the film’s release. Social media erupted with theories about who or what emerges in this teaser moment.
Why This Matters for the Franchise Future
This bold ending positioning signals Disney and 20th Century Studios intend to expand the Predator universe significantly. The $105 million budget represents the franchise’s biggest bet yet on theatrical success.
Early box office tracking suggests Predator: Badlands will surpass previous reboots including “Predators” (2010) and “The Predator” (2018). Opening weekend projections point toward $25-30 million domestically plus $35 million internationally.
You’re witnessing a franchise pivot away from Earth-bound stories. Yautja Prime became the central stage, establishing it as a mythology centerpiece for future films. Sequel potential skyrocketed immediately with fans.
The character arcs for Dek and Thia create emotional investment rare in action franchises. Neither hero dies, neither becomes corrupted, establishing continuation pathways naturally.
The Numbers Behind the Surprise Announcement
Reception metrics paint an impressive picture for franchise momentum moving forward:
| Metric | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Thursday Previews | $4.8 million | Strong Start |
| Opening Weekend Projection | $25-30 million domestic | On Track |
| International Estimate | $35+ million | Tracking High |
| Production Budget | $105 million | Record High |
| Critical Reception | 86% on Rotten Tomatoes | Fresh Rating |
| Audience Score | 7.6/10 on IMDb | Positive Buzz |
These figures validate the studio’s massive investment. Profitability emerges within reach despite the hefty production costs.
What To Expect Next in the Predator Universe
- Sequel Greenlight: Unofficial but strong signals point toward Predator: Badlands 2 greenlight announcement within weeks.
- Streaming Availability: The film eventually arrives on Disney+ and Hulu after theatrical exclusivity window closes.
- Related Projects: 20th Century Studios may develop spinoffs exploring the mysterious antagonist teased in post-credits scene.
- Franchise Timeline: This adventure establishes Yautja Prime as canon-central, reopening mythology for exploration.
- Crossover Possibilities: The Alien universe connection (Weyland-Yutani brief appearance) teases potential interfranchise expansion.
Is Predator: Badlands Setting Up Predators Kill Predators?
The post-credits scene leaves major questions unanswered intentionally. Dek confronts a threat unlike any Alpha he faced before. This could be interdimensional conflict, ancient plague, or rival species entirely.
Fans speculate whether the new antagonist represents a “Mother” figure worse than fathers or brothers hunting him. Social media exploded with theories within the first 24 hours following release.
Director Trachtenberg hasn’t revealed details officially. Studio insiders hint strongly at sequel confirmation arriving once box office numbers solidify through the full opening weekend.
The ending breaks franchise formula by refusing to provide closure. You leave theaters wanting answers. That’s exactly what hooks sequel funding and audience enthusiasm. Will this surprise ending launch you back into theaters the moment a sequel drops?
Sources
- Polygon – Predator: Badlands ending analysis and post-credits scene breakdown
- Variety – Box office projections and production budget confirmation
- 20th Century Studios – Official theatrical release information and credits
Daniel Harris is a specialist journalist focused on the crossroads of breaking news, extraordinary history, and enduring legends. With a background in historical research and storytelling, he blends timely reporting with timeless narratives, making complex events and ancient myths resonate with today’s readers. Daniel’s work often uncovers surprising links between present-day headlines and legendary tales, offering unique perspectives that captivate diverse audiences. Beyond reporting, he is passionate about preserving oral traditions and exploring how extraordinary stories continue to shape culture and identity.