Predator: Badlands Producer Explains Decision to Prioritize Over Prey 2

What's Happening?

Producer Ben Rosenblatt has revealed why the upcoming film Predator: Badlands was prioritized over a sequel to Prey. According to Rosenblatt, director Dan Trachtenberg wanted to bring something fresh and unexpected to the Predator franchise, rather than jumping straight into a sequel. Prey, released in 2022, was praised for its unique take on the Predator series, set in 1719 and featuring a young Comanche woman battling a Predator. The success of Prey led Trachtenberg to direct two more films, including Predator: Badlands, which is set to release in November 2025. Rosenblatt emphasized that Prey 2 is not abandoned, but the team wanted to avoid creating a new version of the same thing.

Why It's Important?

The decision to prioritize Predator: Badlands over Prey 2 highlights the creative direction aimed at revitalizing the Predator franchise. By focusing on originality and unexpected narratives, the filmmakers aim to attract a broader audience and maintain interest in the series. This approach could influence future projects within the franchise, encouraging innovation over formulaic sequels. The success of Prey demonstrated the potential for unique storytelling within established franchises, which could lead to more diverse and creative content in the film industry.

What's Next?

Predator: Badlands is set to release in November 2025, and fans are eagerly anticipating its fresh take on the Predator universe. The film will follow a young Predator named Dek on a hunt to prove himself after being outcast by his clan. As the release date approaches, marketing efforts and fan engagement are likely to increase, potentially setting the stage for future installments in the franchise. The decision to exclude a Xenomorph, despite the appearance of the Weyland-Yutani corporation in trailers, suggests a focus on standalone storytelling rather than crossovers.