Predator: Badlands just smashed a franchise record with a 96% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes. This November 7, 2025 release becomes the highest-rated Predator film ever. Director Dan Trachtenberg continues his winning streak after 2022’s Prey. The sci-fi action thriller features Elle Fanning and newcomer Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi as an unlikely duo.
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🔥 Quick Facts:
- 96% audience score beats all six previous Predator films combined
- 86% critics score (certified fresh) with 156 reviews
- 500+ verified ratings drive the strong 4.6/5 star average
- Second Predator film released in 2025 (after Predator: Killer of Killers)
- Streaming exclusively at theaters now; arrives at Hulu and Disney+ in January 2026
What Happened: A Historic Audience Win
In a stunning reversal for the franchise, Predator: Badlands captured hearts and minds like no Predator movie before it. The verified audience score of 96% crushes Prey (74%), the 1987 original (87%), and Predators (52%). Audiences absolutely love this fresh take on the killer alien hunter.
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The critics consensus echoes audience enthusiasm with an 86% fresh rating. Major outlets praised Trachtenberg’s “audacious, whip-smart blockbuster filmmaking.” The Boston Globe called it a screwball comedy like “It Happened One Night” with a monster.
“Director Dan Trachtenberg continues to take the Predator franchise in exciting new directions with Badlands, a rollicking adventure that transforms one of cinema’s most iconic brutes into a hero worth rooting for.”
User reviews are equally glowing. Fans highlight the strong character development and emotional core missing from prior films. One viewer noted Elle Fanning’s “vibrant” performance elevated the entire experience.
Why This Matters: A New Era Begins
The Predator franchise hasn’t had an easy run. Between 2010 and 2018, the series stumbled with both Predators (52%) and The Predator (34%). Fans lost faith in the property. Then Dan Trachtenberg arrived with Prey, proving fresh perspectives work.
Now Badlands proves Trachtenberg’s success wasn’t a fluke; it’s a formula. By centering the narrative on a young Yautja (the species name), the film invites us to empathize with the “monster.” Audiences connect deeply when heroes feel authentic and layered. That emotional hook drives the 96% score.
This success means studios will greenlight more Predator projects. Expect the franchise to continue evolving away from pure action toward character-driven sci-fi adventure. Opening weekend earned $4.8 million in previews alone across 3,725 theaters.
The Details: Box Office & Streaming Timeline
Predator: Badlands delivers on technical execution and heart. Here’s what you need to know before diving in:
| Release Date | November 7, 2025 (Theaters) |
| Where to Watch | Theaters now; Hulu & Disney+ January 2026 |
| Rating (MPAA) | PG-13 (Strong Sci-Fi Violence) |
| Runtime | 1 hour 47 minutes |
| Director | Dan Trachtenberg |
| Lead Cast | Elle Fanning (Thia), Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi (Dek) |
| Audience Score | 96% (Rotten Tomatoes) |
The PG-13 rating was a bold choice. Critics initially wondered if watering down violence would hurt the film. Instead, audiences prove an M-rated experience isn’t essential for thrilling Predator entertainment. The focus shifted to world-building, creature design, and emotional stakes.
What To Watch For: Future Franchise Moves
Three key questions emerge from this massive success:
- Will Dan Trachtenberg direct a Predator 3, or pass the torch?
- Can the franchise maintain 96% audience love for the next entry?
- Will Alien vs. Predator crossovers return with this new formula?
- Expect expanded universe projects on Disney+ soon.
20th Century Studios and Hulu now have proof that smart Predator storytelling wins big. Pre-release hype suggested a $60 million global opening. If the film matches projections, expect announcements about sequels within weeks.
Can a Film Redefine an Entire Franchise in One Weekend?
Yes. Predator: Badlands proves that one exceptional movie can erase years of franchise fatigue. By treating audiences with respect, centering on compelling characters, and trusting Dan Trachtenberg’s directorial vision, 20th Century Studios cracked the code.
The 96% score isn’t just a number—it represents validation that the Predator universe belongs in the hands of filmmakers willing to evolve it. Audiences want fresh ideas wrapped in beloved IP. They want to care about characters, even alien warriors.
If you haven’t caught Predator: Badlands yet, now’s the time. This film justifies the entire franchise’s existence and sets a new standard for where it goes next.
Watch the official trailer below:
https://youtu.be/43R9l7EkJwE?si=eoJcvLxK5J142c3m
Sources
- Rotten Tomatoes – Official critics consensus and audience score verified ratings
- Screen Rant – Predator: Badlands audience score analysis and franchise comparison
- Deadline – Box office data and opening weekend projections
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.