Predator: Badlands Review - A Pointless Yet Enduring Franchise
The long-running Predator franchise, known for its relentless pursuit of survival and the iconic alien hunter, has taken an unexpected turn with the release of 'Predator: Badlands'. This latest installment, however, falls short of the mark, leaving fans with a sense of disappointment. The original concept, as envisioned by Terrence Malick, promised a thrilling blend of horror and sci-fi, with Martin Sheen and Sissy Spacek facing off against a menacing space alien. But the reality is quite different.
The film's attempt to reboot the franchise as a sci-fi horror with a human touch falls flat. The Predator, a symbol of fear and power, is humanized to the point of becoming almost endearing. This transformation is evident in the portrayal of Dek, a young Predator with a peculiar set of mandible-like claws. While this attempt at character development might appeal to some, it also dilutes the franchise's core identity.
Enter Elle Fanning, who brings a certain charm to the screen as the synth twins, Thia and her counterpart. Thia, a goofy and fallible character, forms an odd-couple friendship with Dek, adding a layer of complexity to the story. However, the real twist lies in the revelation that one of the synth twins is a ruthless hunter, effectively negating the very essence of the Predator franchise. This unexpected turn leaves the audience questioning the purpose of the entire narrative.
Despite Fanning's stellar performance, the film's overall pointlessness becomes a significant hurdle. The story, filled with unnecessary twists and turns, fails to capture the essence of the original Predator films. The audience is left wondering if the franchise has lost its way, sacrificing its core identity for a more human-centric approach.
In conclusion, 'Predator: Badlands' is a missed opportunity for the franchise. While it attempts to explore new directions, it ultimately falls short, leaving fans yearning for the original thrill and intensity. The film's attempt to humanize the Predator and the unexpected twist in the synth twins' roles create a sense of dissonance, making it a challenging watch for both newcomers and long-time fans.
