Is Predator Badlands Any Good

Initial Impressions and Comparison to Previous Predator Films00:00:00

The reviewer expresses surprise at enjoying "Predator: Badlands" given the disappointing 2018 Predator film. They describe the 2018 movie as 'so bad it's good' due to its bizarre plot point of Predators harvesting autism to become stronger. The initial skepticism for Badlands stemmed from the new Predator design and the concept of the Predator as a good guy.

The Predator's Character and Design in Badlands00:01:25

The reviewer explains that the new Predator's design and his role as a protagonist work in the film's context. He is portrayed as the 'runt of his clan,' which justifies his different appearance. The film successfully makes the audience care about this Predator, named Deck, without it feeling cheesy, despite the reviewer's initial conceptual dislike of humanizing the Yautja.

Humor and the PG-13 Rating00:02:41

The humor in the film, particularly the banter between Deck and the synth character Thea, is noted as a bit odd and out of place for a Predator. The film's PG-13 rating is also discussed. While initially concerning for a Predator film, the movie maintains gruesomeness by having the Predator kill synths and aliens with non-red blood, allowing for dismemberment and gore without violating the rating.

The Intelligence of Synths and Action Sequences00:03:55

A critique is made about the synths being unintelligent, seemingly only to facilitate the PG-13 rating's gore without human casualties. Despite this logical inconsistency, the reviewer praises the action sequences, stating that the film is almost non-stop action, with Deck hunting creatures, being hunted, or killing synths effectively, overcoming the potential limitations of the rating.

Spoiler Section: Thea, Yautja Culture, and Future Prospects00:06:46

With a spoiler warning, the reviewer discusses their appreciation for Thea's character and the expanded Yautja culture. They enjoyed seeing Deck fight against other Yautja, including his father, and celebrate the setup for future films with the introduction of Deck's mother. Thea's role in helping Deck reconsider the traditional Yautja way of life is highlighted, making the film's conclusion satisfying and promising for a sequel.