AceShowbiz - The first reactions to Predator: Badlands are in, and they are overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the movie's action-packed and emotional journey. Dan Trachtenberg's latest installment in the Predator franchise sees the titular character become the prey, rather than the hunter, with the help of a damaged Weyland-Yutani Thia, played by Ella Fanning. According to user @thebrosgeekout, Predator: Badlands is "one hell of an action ride" and "a brutal, emotional journey of a Predator finding acceptance."

Film critic Josh Barton thought that Predator: Badlands was "good" but argued that it could be Dan Trachtenberg's "weakest work in the franchise yet." Nevertheless, he agrees that the new Predator installment "delivers yet more thrilling action in this world." Dexerto's deputy editor Eammon Parks Jacobs commented on the "cosmic buddy road movie" as "all killer no filler," praising Trachtenberg's smart direction in upping the scale rather than just sticking to the franchise's usual formula.

Other reviewers, such as Neil Vagg and Nicole's Film Perspectives, have also shared their positive thoughts on Predator: Badlands, with Vagg saying that it brings "the franchise out of horror and presenting a straight up sci-fi adventure," which turns into a "crowd pleasing spectacle." Nicole's Film Perspectives called Predator: Badlands an "action packed adventure" and praised Ella Fanning as the standout in the movie, "who not only captivates you but keeps you on your toes."

While these are just first reactions, official reviews will likely be available closer to the movie's release on November 7. The Predator franchise has experienced a rejuvenation in recent years, thanks in part to Dan Trachtenberg's creative involvement, which started with the 2022 Hulu movie Prey. The success of Prey and other recent installments has built high anticipation for Predator: Badlands, and these positive first reactions will only add to the excitement.