Great news for Predator enthusiasts! The franchise's future is looking brighter than ever, despite a recent development that might have initially sparked some concern.
Last week, director Dan Trachtenberg, the visionary behind the critically acclaimed Prey, inked a three-year first-look deal with Paramount Pictures. This means that the exciting new projects he develops will primarily be under the Paramount banner. It's a significant move for Trachtenberg, bringing him back to the studio where he first made his mark with 10 Cloverfield Lane. This comes after a highly successful period at 20th Century Studios, where he not only revitalized the Predator universe with the prequel Prey but also contributed to the animated anthology Predator: Killer of Killers and the live-action Predator: Badlands. However, the exclusive nature of this new Paramount agreement naturally led some fans to wonder about the fate of the Yautja storyline.
But here's where it gets exciting: Trachtenberg himself has reassured fans! In a recent interview, he confirmed, "I am simultaneously figuring out all of the next steps for the Predator franchise." He described being in a similar creative headspace as when Prey was released, brimming with ideas for a Predator protagonist and even an animated film spanning different eras. "And so that’s where I’m at with Predator now, is, ‘Oh my God, there are so many exciting things we can do.’" This statement is a clear indication that his passion for the Yautja universe remains as strong as ever, even with his new studio commitments.
Trachtenberg further elaborated, "But also now I have this deal at Paramount where I’m thrilled... They are thrilled to make some of the original movies that I’ve always had in my head and heart." He acknowledged that while timing might influence the release schedule, his dedication to both his new projects and the Predator franchise is unwavering. "Anything’s on the table," he added, suggesting a wide-open future.
So, what does this mean for the future of the Predator saga? Trachtenberg has proven his ability to breathe new life into the franchise, and his recent work has laid a fantastic groundwork for what's to come.
In Prey, the post-credits scene hinted at a larger Yautja threat looming over Comanche territory, leaving audiences eager for a continuation. Predator: Badlands concluded with a compelling cliffhanger, introducing the mother of the protagonist Dek and setting the stage for explorations into the internal politics and hierarchies of the Yautja themselves.
Perhaps the most intriguing narrative thread was woven into Predator: Killer of Killers. This film revealed that the Yautja have been capturing formidable human warriors – those who have successfully defeated a Predator – and placing them in cryo-sleep on their homeworld for intergalactic gladiatorial combat. The extended ending even showcased iconic characters like Arnold Schwarzenegger's Dutch Schaefer and Danny Glover's Mike Harrigan in stasis alongside Naru from Prey. This opens up a fascinating possibility for the return of Schwarzenegger, potentially teaming up with Naru in a future installment.
Furthermore, Predator: Badlands has cleverly introduced the Weyland-Yutani corporation, a key antagonist from the Alien franchise. This connection could pave the way for a potential Alien vs. Predator reboot, blending these two iconic sci-fi universes in a fresh way. Predator: Badlands is set to stream on Hulu and Disney+ on February 12th.
Now, for the big question: Where do you think the Predator franchise should go next? Would you be more excited to see a new movie featuring Naru and Dutch together, or are you leaning towards an Alien vs. Predator crossover? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
