A Tender Take on the Predator Franchise: 'Predator: Badlands'

In 'Predator: Badlands', we meet a young Predator named Dek who feels out of place among his species. He finds himself under the harsh scrutiny of his father due to his lack of strength and size. However, over the course of this refreshing installment in the Predator franchise, he discovers the strength in his sensitivity and forms strong bonds with two vibrant females - one a robot, the other an alien - who become his lifelong friends.

Refreshingly, this new addition to the Predator canon spearheaded by Dan Trachtenberg, tones down the notorious brutality and testosterone-infused narrative typical of the franchise, instead opting to take it into a more tender direction - an approach that is sure to please many viewers.

Unlike the first couple of films in the franchise which were bathed in unyielding grimness and gore, Badlands humanizes the Predators. Yes, we've seen this species depicted as more than just killing machines before, most notably in the 2004 movie 'Alien vs. Predator'. But, it’s safe to say that 'Badlands' takes this idea a step further - largely due to it being the first film in the franchise to tell the story from a Predator's perspective.

The new perspective was quite the task, considering the previously remorseless killing machine portrayal of Predators. However, Trachtenberg, along with screenwriter Patrick Aison, successfully navigates this new pathway, presenting a fresh, almost YA-like take on the series.

The movie is both engaging and lively, thanks to Trachtenberg’s knack for inventive world-building. After his thoughtful Predator movie 'Prey', he further establishes himself as a filmmaker capable of revitalizing tired narratives.

In the quest to prove his valor, we follow Dek as he journeys to a deadly planet known as Genna to face a terrifying creature from Yautja lore. He is accompanied by a plucky robot named Thia, played admirably by Elle Fanning. Thia’s character serves as a wonderful balance to the stern, honor-bound culture of the Predators, providing moments of joviality in between the gritty action scenes.

Ultimately, despite venturing into comfortingly emotional terrain, 'Predator: Badlands' respects its roots, weaving in gruesome action scenes amongst its character-centric narrative. By fully embracing its genre, and even tenderizing the franchise branding, the film delivers an experience to remember.

By the film's end, we can't help but cheer on our unlikely hero, Dek, as he confronts his past, achieves his goals and answers a question many fans, and Predators alike, have been wondering: Where are the females of the Yautja species? The movie promises more diversity and inclusivity in upcoming sequels. So, whether you loved the classics or are new to the Predator franchise, 'Badlands' is sure to satisfy.