"Death Planet" Named in New Predator Film, Director Inspired by Shadow of the Colossus

The debut trailer for Predator: Badlands has ignited a flurry of excitement and curiosity among fans, especially regarding the unique design of the new Predator, Dek. In an insightful interview with Bloody Disgusting, director Dan Trachtenberg shed light on several intriguing aspects of this upcoming sci-fi thriller, particularly focusing on his innovative approach to the iconic alien hunter.

Dek, portrayed by Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi, is a departure from the traditional portrayal of Yautja, the race of alien hunters typically seen as antagonists in the Predator franchise. Instead, Dek is introduced as an underdog "runt" who takes on the protagonist role. His journey unfolds on a "Death Planet" named Kalisk, where he battles to earn the respect of his father and acceptance within his clan.

One of the most striking elements of Predator: Badlands is Dek's design, which diverges significantly from previous iterations. Fans have noted that Dek appears more human-like and is notably smaller in stature, aligning with his "runt" characterization. This fresh take on the Predator adds a new layer of intrigue to the film.

While Predator: Badlands centers on Dek's story, he is not alone on Kalisk. He forms an alliance with a character portrayed by Elle Fanning, who has sparked discussions on IGN due to her resemblance to a synth from the Alien franchise, hinted at by the Weyland Yutani logo visible in her eyes. Trachtenberg drew inspiration for their on-screen dynamic from the 2005 PlayStation classic Shadow of the Colossus, emphasizing a compelling partnership between the laconic Dek and the more expressive Fanning, who brings unique capabilities to their duo.

Trachtenberg remained coy about the potential Alien connections and the true nature of Fanning's character, teasing a "unique hook" that enhances their pairing. This mystery adds another layer of anticipation for fans eager to uncover the full scope of the story.

Predator: Badlands is set to premiere on November 7, 2025. Prior to that, fans can look forward to Trachtenberg's animated anthology, Predator: Killer of Killers, slated for release in June.