"Predator: Badlands Director Reveals 'Death Planet' and New Predator Names, Inspired by Shadow of the Colossus"

The debut trailer for *Predator: Badlands* has generated significant buzz, particularly around the design and role of its new Predator character. In a recent interview with Bloody Disgusting, director Dan Trachtenberg shared fresh insights into the upcoming sci-fi film, shedding light on his unique vision for the iconic extraterrestrial hunter.

The new Predator, named Dek and portrayed by Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi, breaks from tradition by stepping into the role of protagonist rather than the typical antagonist seen in previous *Predator* films. Dek is described as an underdog—a young Yautja referred to as a “runt” among his kind—offering a compelling twist on the franchise's usual portrayal of the alien race.

Dek chooses his battleground on a harsh, dangerous world known as Kalisk, which Trachtenberg refers to as a “Death Planet.” It’s here that Dek must prove himself—not only to his father but also within his own clan, seeking acceptance through strength and skill.

His design marks a departure from earlier iterations of the Predator, appearing more human-like and less imposing in stature than predecessors. This subtle yet impactful change aligns perfectly with Dek’s narrative arc as an underestimated figure striving to rise within a warrior culture.

Dek isn’t alone in his journey across Kalisk. He’s joined by a mysterious companion played by Elle Fanning. Fans have speculated about her true nature, especially given the visual cues pointing toward the *Alien* universe—most notably, the Weyland-Yutani logo subtly embedded in her eye. The possibility that she could be a synth adds another layer of intrigue to the storyline.

Trachtenberg drew inspiration from the critically acclaimed PlayStation 2 title *Shadow of the Colossus*, specifically its emotionally resonant dynamic between the lone protagonist and his silent, colossal adversaries. He described how the bond formed between characters—even if vastly different—can add emotional depth and contrast to the narrative.

“As inspired as I am by movies, I’ve been very inspired by video games like *Shadow of the Colossus*, where you have a protagonist paired with someone else who provides color and connection,”

Trachtenberg explained. “There’s a thing with a horse in *Shadow of the Colossus* that’s devastating when you play the game. And so *Predator: Badlands* was a little bit inspired by that in terms of wanting to see the Predator with someone else, this character who’s the opposite of him. He’s very laconic; [Fanning] is not. She’s capable in ways that he is not. Physically, she’s got a real thing that I’m so excited for you guys to see. But I want to let eventually some of that speak for itself.”

Despite the hints and visual nods, Trachtenberg remained intentionally vague about the full scope of Fanning’s character and the potential *Alien* connections, teasing that there’s a “unique hook” to her role that will become more apparent over time.

Fans can look forward to experiencing *Predator: Badlands* in theaters on November 7, 2025. Ahead of that, Trachtenberg’s animated anthology series *Predator: Killer of Killers* will arrive in June, offering additional context and storytelling depth to the expanded Predator universe.