20th Century Studios' Predator: Badlands generated $4.8 million in previews from Wednesday and Thursday showings, positioning it for a strong opening weekend. The Dan Trachtenberg-directed sci-fi action film is projected to earn $14 million on Friday and $33 million over the three-day debut, marking the second-best start in the Predator franchise. Positive audience scores and a lower budget compared to recent blockbusters bolster its performance.
Preview Performance
Predator: Badlands kicked off its theatrical run with $4.8 million in combined previews on Wednesday and Thursday, according to early box office reports. This figure surpasses the $2.5 million Thursday previews for 2018's The Predator and edges ahead of 2017's Blade Runner 2049's $3.5 million, though it trails 2024's Alien: Romulus at $6.5 million. The film, produced by John Davis and shot in New Zealand with tax credits, carries a net production cost of $105 million before marketing—52% less than the $220 million for Tron: Ares.
Opening Projections
Distributors anticipate a $14 million Friday haul, contributing to a $33 million opening weekend across 3,725 theaters. This would place it behind only 2004's Alien v. Predator, which opened to $38.2 million and holds the franchise record with a $16.4 million Friday. Earlier forecasts pegged the debut at $25 million or higher, reflecting optimism after the success of Trachtenberg's 2022 Hulu release Prey, which became the streamer's most-watched premiere and earned 94% on Rotten Tomatoes.
Reception and Context
Audience enthusiasm is evident with a 96% Rotten Tomatoes score, the highest in the franchise and topping the original 1987 Predator's 87%. The PG-13 rating features intense action but avoids red blood, using green Predator blood instead to broaden appeal. While some fans debated the rating online, previews suggest strong turnout. The film revives the series after Prey, with critics noting its female-led action hero vibe, drawing comparisons to John Wick: Chapter 4's ballerina spin-off, which previewed at $3.8 million before a $24.5 million opening.
Overall, Predator: Badlands benefits from favorable reviews and franchise goodwill, potentially setting up future installments.