Predator: Badlands Box Office Success Ends Summer Slump

Dan Trachtenberg’s new film, *Predator: Badlands*, is shattering box office expectations. The movie dominated Friday ticket sales with a massive $15.6 million haul. It is now projected for a record-breaking domestic opening weekend.

This performance signals a major turnaround for the domestic box office. The film’s success is largely attributed to its strong critical and audience reception.

Franchise Records and Critical Acclaim

*Badlands* is set to achieve the highest opening for any standalone *Predator* film. Industry tracking initially predicted a $25 million weekend, a figure it has now far surpassed. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the film is now challenging the entire franchise’s opening record.

It has a real shot at surpassing *AVP: Alien vs. Predator*, which debuted with $38.4 million in 2004. This new installment is the first in the series to earn an A- CinemaScore from audiences.

Its PostTrak exit scores are also exceptionally high. This positive word-of-mouth is fueling its stronger-than-expected performance.

A New Direction for the Iconic Franchise

Trachtenberg, who also directed the acclaimed *Prey*, is credited with reinvigorating the franchise. He co-conceived the story with writer Patrick Aison. The film introduces a unique protagonist for the series.

This time, the story follows a villainous Predator named Dek. He is portrayed by Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi. Dek pairs with a synthetic character played by Elle Fanning.

The plot sees the outcast Predator traveling to a dangerous planet to prove his worth. This fresh narrative approach is resonating with both new viewers and longtime fans. The film blazes a new trail for the nine-film series that began in 1987.

*Predator: Badlands* is proving to be the box office hit the industry needed. Its record-breaking performance and critical praise solidify its place as a standout franchise entry.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the box office projection for Predator: Badlands?

The film is projected to earn between $36 million and $38.5 million for its domestic opening weekend. This far exceeds initial industry tracking that predicted a $25 million debut. It earned $15.6 million on its opening day alone.

How does this opening compare to other Predator movies?

It is guaranteed to have the top opening for any standalone Predator film. The movie is also challenging the overall franchise record held by 2004’s *AVP: Alien vs. Predator*, which opened to $38.4 million.

What is the audience reaction to the new film?

Audience reaction has been overwhelmingly positive. The film is the first in the entire Predator series to receive an A- CinemaScore. PostTrak exit polls also show viewers gave it five out of five stars.

Who directed Predator: Badlands?

The film was directed by Dan Trachtenberg. He previously directed the well-received *Prey* and *10 Cloverfield Lane*. Trachtenberg also co-conceived the story with writer Patrick Aison.

What is the plot of the new movie?

The story follows a Predator named Dek who has been cast out by his clan. To prove himself, he travels to a dangerous planet for an unsanctioned hunt. There, he teams up with a synthetic character played by Elle Fanning.