Updated: November 04, 2025 04:09 PM IST
Predator Badlands director Dan Trachtenberg talks about Demetrius Schuster-Kolomatangi, who plays a young Predator in the new film.
The Predator franchise takes another step in a new direction with the upcoming film, Predator: Badlands, which stars a young Predator as the hero for the first time. Set on a remote, deadly planet, the film features the young hunter dealing with the obstacles thrown in his way and making an impossible, shaky pact with a cyborg.
Director Dan Trachtenberg has opened up about the casting of the two pivotal characters and how actor Demetrius Schuster-Kolomatangi brings vulnerability to the character.
Dan Trachtenberg on Dimitris
“Dimitrius was one of the most remarkable discoveries of my career,” said Dan, “He had a beautiful audition, but we wanted to see what he was capable of physically, so we had a day where we brought in a group of stunt performers and set up an obstacle course. The way Dimitrios navigated that course was insane. The zeal he showed in the slides, jumps, leaps and weapon work was comparable to stuntmen. I was good at it. Dimitris had a special physical ability.”
The filmmaker added that Dimitris also brought an emotionality to the role, which was not typically seen for Predators in the franchise. “Then on set, Dimitris came not only for the physical work, but also for the emotional work. It was incredible to see where he went. I was not prepared for how he brought so much to this creature, who is simultaneously vulnerable, but terrifying, cruel and visceral,” he continued.
All about Predator Badlands
The Predator franchise began in 1987 with the film of the same name. Starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, it was a resounding success. Since then, there have been two sequels, a reboot, and a spinoff. The franchise has also had two crossover films with the Alien series, resulting in two Aliens vs. Predator films. Predator: Badlands also stars Elle Fanning. The film will be released in theaters on November 7 in English, Hindi, Tamil and Telugu.
