Predator: Badlands – Review
I have been watching Predator movies for a long time, all the way back to the original Arnold Schwartzeneggar Predator movie. There have been a number of takes on the concept.
Predator: Badlands takes a very different perspective. The Predators are hunters, hunters who are always seeking a better prey to test their skills. But our view of the hunt is almost always from that of the prey.
Predator: Badlands turns the concept on its head. We get a glimpse of the Predator world and why they do their hunts. We even get some idea of a Predator family and the dynamics of their society.
Without giving a spoiler, one Predator finds himself headed toward a very dangerous world, hunting the most feared prey. Unfortunately, this Predator has some disadvantages. Can he defeat his prey alone?
No.
Thankfully, the Predator encounters someone, a synthetic being from the Alien movies. Although damaged, this synth is able to assist the Predator, along with another alien they encounter.
So far, it sounds rather typical of science fiction movies.
What makes it much more is the emphasis on the characters and the theme of family. In fact, there are three families featured in the movie, even though we do not realize it right away.
Even in science fiction, families are dysfunctional. There are unreasonable expectations and unreasonable attempts to meet those expectations. Trauma is the result.
Predator: Badlands shares this dynamic in a science fiction genre that actually leaves the audience with a relevant and relatable message.
I went into this movie with not much of an expectation and finished feeling like it was time well spent. Great action and special effects but also a reminder of what we all face.
