Elle Fanning Embarks on a New Hunt in ‘Predator: Badlands,’ Teasing Crossovers and a Deeper Look at the Alien Race
Elle Fanning is returning to the iconic Predator franchise with the upcoming installment, Predator: Badlands, directed by Dan Trachtenberg, following his work on Predator: The Prey (2022) and the forthcoming Predator: Killer of Killers (2025). The 27-year-old actress takes on the role of Thea, a unique android comprised only of a torso, who accompanies a young Predator named Dek on his inaugural hunt – quite literally as a “human backpack.”
Fanning describes the filming experience as “incredible,” largely due to the emphasis on practical effects over traditional chroma key technology, as reported by Fatogramas. “Most of what you see on the screen is tangible,” she explained. The complex setup involved attaching Fanning to Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi’s back using a previously untested cable system. While occasionally uncomfortable, the cast fostered a supportive environment, with a shared mantra of mutual support: “If you have my back, I’ll have your back.” Fanning fondly recalls “loving riding my Predator.”
Beyond Thea: A Dual Role as Synthetic Lifeforms
Fanning’s involvement extends beyond the role of Thea. She also portrays Tessa, another synthetic being created by Weyland-Yutani, characterized by a more reserved, scientific, and enigmatic demeanor, according to Frames. While remaining tight-lipped about the specifics of this second portrayal, Fanning emphasized the opportunity to showcase her versatility and adaptability as an actress.
For Fanning, Predator: Badlands, as noted by Fatogramas, represents a significant expansion of the Predator universe, being “bigger and more epic” than its predecessors. The film blends intense action sequences with moments of emotional depth and nuance. Crucially, the narrative delves into the origins of the Predator, fostering empathy for the extraterrestrial creature and positioning it as the central protagonist.
A Dangerous World Inspired by Classic Monster Films
The film’s setting is a planet teeming with peril, where even the flora poses a threat. “From blades of grass to trees to flowers, everything is trying to kill you,” Fanning commented to Fotogramas. Director Dan Trachtenberg revealed that the visual design draws inspiration from classic monster movies like those by Ray Harryhausen and King Kong, where the creatures are dramatically larger than the Predator itself.
Fanning expressed her enthusiasm for integrating iconic elements of the franchise and tackling the physical demands of the role, highlighting how practical effects enhance the realism and immediacy of the on-screen experience.
The Potential for Dutch’s Return and Expanded Universes
The possibility of future crossovers and the return of established characters, such as Dutch (Arnold Schwarzenegger), are also on the horizon. Fanning shared with Fotogramas that Trachtenberg and Schwarzenegger have been in communication regarding a potential reunion. “If he comes back, I already told Dan: ‘Put me there! I want to work with him’,” she stated, adding that the expanding nature of the Predator universe makes such a collaboration increasingly plausible.
The actress fondly recalled watching the original Predator film as a teenager, playfully admitting to Fotogramas that she would imitate the Predator’s distinctive sounds – much to the amusement of her parents. She even learned a few phrases in Yautja, the Predator language, though she confessed to having since forgotten them.
Fanning leaves the door open for future installments and exciting new adventures within the realm of action and science fiction, suggesting that the boundaries between universes are becoming increasingly blurred.
