The debut trailer for Predator: Badlands has ignited curiosity among fans, particularly regarding the design of the new Predator, Dek. In an insightful interview with Bloody Disgusting, director Dan Trachtenberg shared exciting details about this latest addition to the sci-fi franchise.
Dek, portrayed by Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi, is a unique Yautja "runt" who takes on the protagonist role, a significant departure from the typical antagonistic portrayal of Yautja in previous Predator films. Dek's journey unfolds on a "Death Planet" named Kalisk, where he strives to prove his worth to his father and gain acceptance within his clan.
Unlike the towering Predators seen in past movies, Dek's design is notably more human-like and smaller in stature, fitting his underdog status. Predator: Badlands centers on Dek's story, but he is not alone on Kalisk. He collaborates with a character played by Elle Fanning, whose appearance suggests a connection to the Alien franchise, sporting the Weyland Yutani logo in her eyes, hinting at a potential synth identity.
Trachtenberg drew inspiration from the 2005 PlayStation classic Shadow of the Colossus for the dynamic between Dek and Fanning's character. He likened their relationship to the poignant bond between the protagonist and the horse in Shadow of the Colossus, emphasizing the contrast between the laconic Dek and the more expressive and capable Fanning. Trachtenberg teased a "unique hook" to Fanning's character that enhances their pairing, though he remained coy about her true nature and any explicit Alien connections.
Predator: Badlands is set to premiere on November 7, 2025. Before that, fans can look forward to Trachtenberg's animated anthology, Predator: Killer of Killers, scheduled for release in June.
