What's Happening?
Director Dan Trachtenberg has revealed details about the setting of his latest film, 'Predator: Badlands,' which is part of the expansive Alien and Predator franchises. Trachtenberg explained that the movie
is set far into the future, allowing it to stand independently from other films in the series. This decision was made to avoid the necessity for audiences to watch previous installments to understand the new film. Trachtenberg noted that while other projects like 'Alien: Romulus' and 'Alien Earth' were in development, 'Badlands' was crafted to exist in its own timeline, free from the constraints of previous narratives. The film features Elle Fanning as Thia, a Weyland-Yutani synth, a nod to the Alien franchise's evil corporation.
Why It's Important?
The decision to set 'Predator: Badlands' in the far future is significant as it reflects a shift in how franchises are developed, focusing on standalone storytelling rather than interconnected universes. This approach can attract new audiences who may be deterred by the need to follow complex timelines across multiple films. It also allows filmmakers creative freedom to explore new narratives without being bound by existing storylines. For fans, this means enjoying the film without the pressure of 'homework' to understand its context, potentially broadening the appeal and accessibility of the franchise.
What's Next?
With 'Predator: Badlands' set in the far future, it opens possibilities for new storylines and characters within the franchise. This approach may influence other filmmakers to adopt similar strategies, prioritizing standalone narratives over interconnected universes. The success of 'Badlands' could lead to more films in the franchise that explore different timelines and settings, offering fresh perspectives and expanding the universe in innovative ways.
Beyond the Headlines
The choice to set 'Predator: Badlands' independently from other franchise films highlights a broader trend in the entertainment industry towards creating content that is accessible and engaging without requiring extensive background knowledge. This could lead to a reevaluation of how franchises are structured, with potential implications for storytelling, marketing, and audience engagement strategies.