Elle Fanning and the Predator
Gareth Gatrell; Everett Collection
Badlands Gains Momentum with New Star
After announcing the expansion of its Predator universe earlier this year, Dan Trachtenberg’s next standalone film Badlands is picking up steam — and some serious star power. Sources close to Deadline report that Elle Fanning is in negotiations to star in the film, with Trachtenberg directing. He co-wrote the script with Patrick Aison.
20th Century Studios hasn’t commented on the matter yet. Plot details are under wraps, but it is confirmed that everyone’s favorite extraterrestrial big game hunter will feature in the film. While it’s uncertain whether Badlands will premiere theatrically or exclusively stream on Hulu (like Prey did), given the studio’s recent efforts with theatrical releases like Alien: Romulus, a theater release isn’t out of the question.
Success Paves the Way for New Ventures
When Prey
premiered in the summer of 2022, not only did it break streaming records for Hulu, but it also garnered some of the best reviews in the franchise’s history, landing a nomination for Best Movie at this year’s Emmys. Following such a successful relaunch, 20th Century looks set to move forward with another film while expanding the universe with Trachtenberg at the helm.
The Search for an Established Star
While Prey featured a cast mainly consisting of relative unknowns and rising stars like Amber Midthunder, executives and Trachtenberg aimed to land an established star for this new standalone installment. Insiders reveal that Fanning, an avowed fan of the franchise, met with Trachtenberg. This meeting convinced both parties to collaborate and there’s optimism that once a deal closes, production might commence later this year.
A Sequel to ‘Prey’ on Horizon?
A sequel to Prey
is still under early development discussions according to sources, with hopes of returning to its original setting and possibly featuring Amber Midthunder reprising her role as Naru. Interestingly, if Midthunder returns, it would mark a unique chapter in the franchise as no previous protagonist has reprised their role across seven films.
An Exciting Return Battling Aliens
The move to recruit Fanning is significant as she carved out her niche battling extraterrestrial beings in J.J. Abrams’ sci-fi thriller Super 8. Her most recent work includes leading roles in The Great, which garnered her an Emmy nomination for portraying Catherine The Great.
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