Director Dan Trachtenberg’s masterpiece, Prey, revolutionized the Predator franchise, reviving enthusiasm and allowing fans to forget some of its less successful predecessors. This film offers a refreshing take reminiscent of the iconic Arnold Schwarzenegger original, opening up intriguing historical possibilities. If Predators have hunted humans in the past, what other surprises could emerge from this universe?
We’ve seen hints of that in Predator: Killer of Killers, an impressive animated anthology exploring Predators through time. Now, the fifth installment, Predator: Badlands, hits theaters this weekend. While Trachtenberg directed all three films, Badlands is the first making its theatrical debut, showcasing a new narrative twist where the Predator takes on the role of a hero.
In a recent conversation with io9, Trachtenberg shared insights on Badlands. He discussed the implications of portraying the Predator as a hero and whether this would reshape perceptions of previous films. He also touched upon the decision to skip Alan Silvestri’s iconic theme, collaborations with James Cameron, and his eagerness to continue expanding this universe.
The Journey of a Visionary
Trachtenberg explained his appreciation for collaborating with James Cameron, who praised Prey and provided crucial encouragement during the production of Badlands. Their discussions helped bolster Trachtenberg’s confidence, demonstrating the power of mentorship in the filmmaking industry.
What’s Next for the Predator Franchise?
With the introduction of Dek—a compelling Yautja character—Trachtenberg hints at the depth of Predator culture, suggesting a rich variety among the species. Fans might wonder how this new information could alter their interpretation of Yautja in earlier films. Trachtenberg encourages fans to imagine their own narratives, considering how different clans might vary in their experiences and values.
Is Weyland-Yutani Always Doomed to Fail?
As a fan of both Predator and Alien, the connection to Weyland-Yutani is intriguing. This infamous corporation seems to have an endless track record of missteps. Is this a deliberate theme? Trachtenberg noted that there is a comedic aspect to their failures, but he aimed to present them in a slightly smarter light this time, introducing more intelligent synths as they explore alien worlds.
The Music in Badlands
One anticipated aspect of Predator films is the music. Trachtenberg and his composers, Sarah Schachner and Ben Wallfisch, purposefully decided to omit Silvestri’s recognizable theme this time. Instead, they aimed to create a unique sound that reflects the Yautja culture, establishing a fresh identity for this installment and teasing a possible return of the original theme in future projects.
How Does Naru Fit into This Universe?
Naru, the protagonist from Prey, makes a surprising cameo in Killer of Killers. Fans may wonder when this decision was made. Trachtenberg revealed that the idea emerged while brainstorming the narratives connecting both films, showcasing his thoughtful storytelling approach.
What Lies Ahead for Trachtenberg?
As Trachtenberg gears up for more adventures in the Predator universe, he acknowledges the creative ideas fueling his passion. He’s eager to continue crafting original tales about worthy prey, blending exciting action with emotional storytelling.
Predator: Badlands is now in theaters, with Prey and Predator: Killer of Killers available on Hulu. If you’re a fan of thrilling narratives and captivating characters, be sure to dive into these films!
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