The 2023 film "Predator: Badlands" has brought a new perspective to the franchise, shifting from the typical A-list cast and testosterone-fueled action to a more nuanced exploration of diversity and survival. Director Dan Trachtenberg's vision is one of power fantasies for underdogs, whose plots align with the universe's origins while steering it in welcome new directions.
In this film, Dek, played by Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi, an outsider among his Yautja clan due to his lack of hunting prowess, must navigate a deadly ecosystem and confront his own limitations. The movie is not an overtly action-packed "Alien" vs. "Predator" entry or a traditional "Predator" sequel, but rather a thoughtful exploration of the complexities of masculinity, diversity, and survival.
The film's protagonist, Dek, is a symbol of the underdog, whose value lies in his cunning and resourcefulness rather than brute strength. His journey is one of self-discovery and growth, as he learns to accept assistance from Thia, a Weyland-Yutani synthetic programmed with empathy. The two form an unlikely partnership that enables them to survive against overwhelming odds.
Through Dek's character, the film challenges dominant definitions of masculinity, which often prioritize aggression and dominance over emotional intelligence and cooperation. Trachtenberg's vision is not about promoting a particular brand of masculinity but rather highlighting the value of diversity and inclusivity in achieving success.
The movie also features Elle Fanning playing two roles, Thia and Tessa, who embody different approaches to survival and human connection. Thia's empathetic nature allows her to form connections with Dek and other creatures they encounter on their journey, while Tessa represents a more utilitarian approach, where survival is the only priority.
The film's subtextual conversation about diversity and its representation in popular culture is equally compelling. The movie features a predominantly white cast, with only two non-white characters having major on-screen roles. However, Schuster-Koloamatangi's face is largely obscured by digital animation, highlighting the limitations of representation in media.
Ultimately, "Predator: Badlands" offers an empowering message about the power of diversity and collaboration. Dek and Thia's unlikely partnership serves as a testament to the value of embracing different strengths and perspectives to achieve success. As the film concludes, there is a sense that life can be navigated with greater ease when we choose to work together rather than against each other.
The "Predator" franchise has long been praised for its ability to market itself to children while still delivering complex themes and subtextual conversations. With "Badlands," Trachtenberg has added another layer of depth to the series, highlighting the importance of empathy, diversity, and survival in a world that often seems hostile and unforgiving.
By choosing to feature an underdog protagonist and exploring themes of masculinity, diversity, and collaboration, "Predator: Badlands" is a film that will resonate with audiences long after the credits roll. It offers a fresh perspective on the franchise while maintaining its signature blend of action and suspense, making it a must-see for fans of the series and newcomers alike.
In this film, Dek, played by Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi, an outsider among his Yautja clan due to his lack of hunting prowess, must navigate a deadly ecosystem and confront his own limitations. The movie is not an overtly action-packed "Alien" vs. "Predator" entry or a traditional "Predator" sequel, but rather a thoughtful exploration of the complexities of masculinity, diversity, and survival.
The film's protagonist, Dek, is a symbol of the underdog, whose value lies in his cunning and resourcefulness rather than brute strength. His journey is one of self-discovery and growth, as he learns to accept assistance from Thia, a Weyland-Yutani synthetic programmed with empathy. The two form an unlikely partnership that enables them to survive against overwhelming odds.
Through Dek's character, the film challenges dominant definitions of masculinity, which often prioritize aggression and dominance over emotional intelligence and cooperation. Trachtenberg's vision is not about promoting a particular brand of masculinity but rather highlighting the value of diversity and inclusivity in achieving success.
The movie also features Elle Fanning playing two roles, Thia and Tessa, who embody different approaches to survival and human connection. Thia's empathetic nature allows her to form connections with Dek and other creatures they encounter on their journey, while Tessa represents a more utilitarian approach, where survival is the only priority.
The film's subtextual conversation about diversity and its representation in popular culture is equally compelling. The movie features a predominantly white cast, with only two non-white characters having major on-screen roles. However, Schuster-Koloamatangi's face is largely obscured by digital animation, highlighting the limitations of representation in media.
Ultimately, "Predator: Badlands" offers an empowering message about the power of diversity and collaboration. Dek and Thia's unlikely partnership serves as a testament to the value of embracing different strengths and perspectives to achieve success. As the film concludes, there is a sense that life can be navigated with greater ease when we choose to work together rather than against each other.
The "Predator" franchise has long been praised for its ability to market itself to children while still delivering complex themes and subtextual conversations. With "Badlands," Trachtenberg has added another layer of depth to the series, highlighting the importance of empathy, diversity, and survival in a world that often seems hostile and unforgiving.
By choosing to feature an underdog protagonist and exploring themes of masculinity, diversity, and collaboration, "Predator: Badlands" is a film that will resonate with audiences long after the credits roll. It offers a fresh perspective on the franchise while maintaining its signature blend of action and suspense, making it a must-see for fans of the series and newcomers alike.
The way they're shifting the focus from those big-name stars to telling different stories is really cool 
. Dek's character is so relatable, you know? He's not your typical hero, but he makes it work because of his brains over brawn 
. And that Thia synthetic being? What a game-changer! 
It's like they're saying we don't have to be stuck in these traditional definitions of masculinity 
. Can't wait to see what other directions this franchise takes from now on... 
I'm loving how "Predator: Badlands" flips the script on the typical "Predator" formula. Dek's character is so relatable, you know? Like, we've all felt like we don't quite fit in or measure up at some point. And Elle Fanning playing two roles? Genius! It adds this whole layer of depth to the story. I'm also feeling the message about diversity and collaboration - it's like, we need more stories that show us that being different is what makes us strong. The way Trachtenberg explores masculinity too... it's all so thought-provoking. Can't wait to see how they carry this momentum forward for the franchise 
. Dek, the protagonist, isn't your typical alpha male; he's more of an underdog who relies on his wits and resourcefulness to survive. This shift in perspective allows for a nuanced exploration of masculinity, diversity, and survival that feels both timely and refreshing 
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. Dek's relationship with Thia, the synthetic programmed with empathy, is a highlight of the movie, as it shows how two vastly different individuals can come together to achieve common goals.
. The fact that Schuster-Koloamatangi's face is largely obscured by digital animation highlights the limitations of representation and how it can be used to amplify underrepresented voices.
. It's not just an action-packed thrill ride; it's a thoughtful exploration of complex themes that will resonate with audiences long after the credits roll 
. Less testosterone, more heart 
. Can't wait to see what other unexpected twists they throw in next! 
. It's all about redefinin' what it means to be strong, y'know? Dek's character is like, the ultimate underdog, right? He doesn't gotta rely on brute force to get by; he uses his wits and resourcefulness instead 
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. By showin' Dek's value lies in his emotions and relationships, we're reminded that vulnerability is a sign of strength, not weakness 
. It's a reminder that when we work together and appreciate each other's strengths, life can be way less lonely 
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! It's dope to see how her characters Thia and Tessa represent different approaches to survival and human connection. The way the film highlights the value of diversity and inclusivity is also really empowering 
It sounds like they're trying to subvert expectations, which can be cool, but also kinda confusing.
Is it just to show how versatile she is or is there something more going on? I feel like that part of the review was kinda glossing over it. 
. We need more movies that challenge traditional definitions of masculinity and highlight the importance of collaboration and empathy 
i was reading about them online and it's crazy to think about how they've adapted to their environment in such a unique way 
I mean, have you ever noticed how some pizza places just get it so right? Like, the crust is always perfectly crispy and the sauce isn't too sweet... anyway, back to "Predator: Badlands"... I love how they subverted expectations with Dek as the underdog protagonist. I mean, who expects a guy who's not exactly the best hunter to be the hero? 
She's amazing! 
. It's so refreshing to see a protagonist who's not just about brute strength, but about using his wits and cunning to survive. And Elle Fanning's dual roles? Mind blown 
Thia and Tessa are like yin and yang - one's all about empathy and connection, while the other's all about survival at any cost. It's a powerful message about diversity and collaboration, especially when you consider how limited representation is in media 
dek is literally my spirit animal because he's all about being resourceful and clever rather than just strong and aggressive 
and thia is so cool too she's like this synthetic programmed with empathy that's just trying to make a difference