The latest entry in the Predator franchise, Predator: Badlands, has exceeded expectations by grossing over $80 million worldwide since its early November theatrical release. Directed by Dan Trachtenberg, the film has drawn praise from industry figures like Hideo Kojima for its innovative approach inspired by manga, anime, and gaming culture. The movie's ending leaves room for potential sequels, as teased by the director.
Release and Box Office Success
Predator: Badlands hit theaters in early November 2025, quickly becoming a box office hit with more than $80 million in worldwide earnings. This success underscores the enduring popularity of the Predator franchise, originally launched with the 1987 film starring Arnold Schwarzenegger. The new installment, directed by Dan Trachtenberg—who previously helmed the prequel Prey—continues the series' tradition of high-stakes sci-fi action involving the alien hunter.
Industry Praise
Renowned game designer Hideo Kojima has lauded the film, stating it "represents a new direction for Hollywood entertainment" influenced by "manga, anime, and gaming culture." This endorsement highlights the movie's blend of visual styles and narrative elements that resonate with fans of Japanese media and video games, potentially broadening the franchise's appeal.
Sequel Tease
The film's "awesome and ironic" ending has sparked speculation about future installments. Director Dan Trachtenberg teased possibilities, noting that exploring what comes next "would be a whole lot of fun," though no sequel has been officially confirmed. This open-ended conclusion keeps audiences engaged while the franchise's physical media collections, including Blu-ray sets of earlier films, see increased interest amid the buzz.
Franchise Context
Predator: Badlands builds on predecessors like Predator, Predator 2, Predators, The Predator, and Prey. While streaming options exist on Hulu, physical releases such as the four-movie Blu-ray collection are available on Amazon, currently on sale for $29.90.
