November 13, 2025 – Most sequels are not as good as the original, which, in this case was a 1987 film, starring two actors who became state governors, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Jesse Ventura. The Predator franchise includes nine films. Of those, three stand out, in addition to the original, “Predators” (2010) “Prey” (2022) and the latest, “Predator: Badlands.”

Like “Predators,” this new film takes place on other planets, but this time, no humans are around. There is a kind of humanoid android, Thia (played by Elle Fanning of “A Complete Unknown”) who teams up with Dek, a Yautja (predator species) to survive on a deadly world. Dek (played by Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi of “Red, White & Brass”) is a runt of his species and wants to prove himself by killing an invulnerable beast called a Kalisk.

If you like to root for the underdog, as I do, then you'll want to root for Dek and Thia to survive on a planet where everything is trying to kill you. Thia has been damaged during an expedition to study the life on this “Death Planet” named Genna. Thia and her fellow androids were supposed to capture a deadly beast called a Kalisk, which cannot be killed because of its extreme regenerative capacity. This same regenerative ability is why medical research scientists want to study the creature.

Many Yautja have landed on Genna to kill the Kalisk, but none have survived. Dek has vowed to be the first to succeed. Thia is programmed to capture the Kalisk. Dek and Thia are an unlikely pair. They encounter an even stranger third member of their team, a dog-like creature that Thia calls “Bud.” Dek is uncomfortable working with others, but he begins to see the attraction of working in a team, where each member is supported by the others.

The bond between Dek, Thia and Bud becomes stronger as they continue on, relying on each other to survive the many dangers of Genna. The relationship between Dek and Thia ends up changing them both. There are numerous complications on their journey, and they face dangers far beyond those of the deadly plants and animals on Genna.

Even though there are no humans in this story, Dek and Thia are interesting characters in their own right. While Dek is overly serious, Thia is very lighthearted. She is open to the wonder of this death world, and remains upbeat most of the time, making her a good foil for Dek. The story is compelling and has many twists and turns. It rates a B.

Click here for links to places to buy or rent this movie in digital formats, or to buy the soundtrack, posters, books, even used videos, games, electronics and lots of other stuff (no extra charges apply). I suggest you shop at least two of these places before buying anything. Prices seem to vary continuously. For more information on this film, click on this link to The Internet Movie Database. Type in the name of the movie in the search box and press enter. You will be able to find background information on the film, the actors, and links to much more information.

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