The monster is back for more: the teaser trailer for the upcoming sci-fi action sequel, *Predator: Badlands*, has just hit the internet. In this sneak peek, we are introduced to star Elle Fanning's character, who seems to be a resident of a perilous, remote planet in the future. But what sets this film apart is the Predator she encounters, which appears to be unlike any we've seen before—and might even be the protagonist of this story. The teaser tantalizes us with the promise, "The director of Prey welcomes you to a world of pain."
Apart from this new-look Predator, there are clear nods to the Alien universe, fueling speculation that *Badlands* may be setting the stage for a new *Aliens vs Predator* movie. Fans have noticed Fanning's eyes exhibiting the Weyland Yutani reboot effect, similar to what we saw with Andy in *Alien: Romulus*, hinting that she might be a synthetic character. Additionally, a glimpse of the Weyland Yutani logo—the notorious megacorporation central to the Alien franchise—can be seen on a damaged vehicle.
*Predator: Badlands* was first announced to be in development in February 2024, with its release date confirmed in October of the same year. While the trailer debuted exclusively at CinemaCon earlier this month, this is the first opportunity fans have had to get a glimpse of what's in store.
During CinemaCon, 20th Century Studios also unveiled an official synopsis for the film, which reads: "In the future on a remote planet, a young Predator, outcast from his clan, finds an unlikely ally in Thia and embarks on a treacherous journey in search of the ultimate adversary."
Elle Fanning shared with the CinemaCon audience, "Something unprecedented happens in this movie. My character is not the one being chased. My character actually teams up with the Predator. And you get to see him in a completely new light. And... I'll stop there!"
Directed by Dan Trachtenberg, known for *10 Cloverfield Lane* and the *Predator* prequel *Prey*, *Predator: Badlands* was co-written by Trachtenberg and Patrick Aison. The film is slated to premiere in theaters on November 7, 2025.
