The Predator franchise is taking a bold new direction with its upcoming film, Predator: Badlands. For the first time in the series, a young Predator will be the main character. The story unfolds on a dangerous, remote planet where this young predator must overcome deadly challenges and forms an unexpected alliance with a cyborg. Director Dan Trachtenberg recently discussed his casting choices, particularly highlighting actor Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi, who portrays the young Predator. Trachtenberg praised Dimitrius for bringing both physical prowess and emotional depth to a creature typically shown as purely ferocious. The franchise started in 1987 with Arnold Schwarzenegger's original film and has since expanded with sequels, reboots, spinoffs, and crossovers with the Alien series. Predator: Badlands features Elle Fanning and will release in theatres on 7 November in English, Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu.
Director Praises Lead Actor's Performance
Dan Trachtenberg called Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi one of his most remarkable discoveries. After an impressive audition, the team tested his physical capabilities using an obstacle course with stunt performers. Dimitrius exceeded expectations, displaying better movement, weapon handling, and agility than professional stuntmen. Beyond physicality, Trachtenberg was unprepared for the emotional layers Dimitrius brought to the role. The director explained that the actor portrayed the young Predator as simultaneously vulnerable and terrifying, adding dimensions rarely explored in the franchise. This combination of physical skill and emotional range made Dimitrius perfect for portraying a protagonist who is both ferocious and relatable, breaking new ground for Predator characters.
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