According to Deadline’s recent reports, 20th Century officially announced the development of a new standalone film. Titled ‘Badlands,’ the film will be under the helm of Dan Trachtenberg, who directed ‘Prey.’
‘Badlands’ is poised to break new ground as a high-priority project for the studio, with Trachtenberg returning not only to direct but also to co-write the screenplay alongside Patrick Aison. Details surrounding the plot remain tightly guarded, but as per Deadline, the film is actively searching for a female talent to fill the lead role.
The production timeline for ‘Badlands’ is set to commence later this year. While the release strategy for ‘Badlands’ has yet to be disclosed, the film’s development comes at a time when the 20th Century is increasingly leveraging both streaming platforms and theatrical releases to reach its audience.
‘Prey’ Also Has An Upcoming Sequel
The announcement follows the success of ‘Prey,‘ which received praise for its direction, action sequences, and Amber Midthunder’s performance. Set in the Northern Great Plains in 1719, the film has an innovative approach to the franchise, with its focus on Indigenous characters and a full Comanche language dub, a first for a feature film.
‘Prey’ was the fifth film in the main Predator series and the seventh installment overall, directed by Trachtenberg and written by Aison. Following the success of the movie, ‘Badlands’ aims to expand the ‘Predator’ universe.
In addition to ‘Badlands,’ there are discussions around a direct sequel to ‘Prey.’ Potential plans involve revisiting the film’s original setting and characters, and Midthunder may return in the sequel.
