A recent digital release of Dan Trachtenberg's latest cinematic offering, "Predator: Badlands," is set to be followed by a 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and DVD release in February. This highly anticipated release allows enthusiasts of filmmaking to delve into extensive behind-the-scenes footage, offering an exclusive look at the film before the application of its extensive visual effects. The footage is particularly engaging due to the actors' visible enjoyment of the more whimsical aspects of production, especially the lead, Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi, who portrays the young Predator Dek, often seen sporting a peculiar 'Predator hoodie' with his face unconcealed.
An exclusive peek into the featurette titled "Embodying the Predator" highlights Schuster-Koloamatangi and co-star Elle Fanning engaged in an action sequence. In the film, Dek embarks on his inaugural solo hunt as an unblooded Predator, targeting a fabled creature on a perilous planet. Fanning undertakes a dual role as Thia and Tessa, identical humanoid androids. The footage humorously captures moments, such as Schuster-Koloamatangi retrieving a blaster pistol, accompanied by off-screen 'pew pew pew' sound effects, drawing parallels to the playful anecdotes from the Star Wars prequels. Whether he is dramatically snarling as Dek or conversing in the Yautja language within a studio booth, the behind-the-scenes content exudes a delightful charm.
The physical release of "Predator: Badlands," slated for February 17, is currently available for pre-order and boasts a comprehensive array of features not included in its digital counterpart. This includes various deleted and pre-visualization scenes with optional audio commentary, such as "Sand Trap," an early animatic of Dek's initial encounter with Thia, and "Squirt Canyon," depicting Dek and Thia navigating a water-filled trench. Additional scenes like "Tessa vs. Abe" and "Razor Grass" delve into alternative storylines and early visual concepts. Featurettes like "Embodying the Predator" and "Authentic Synthetics" explore the creative processes behind the film's characters and creatures. "Building the Badlands" showcases the creation of the deadly planet Genna, while "Dek of the Yautja" offers insights into Predator culture. An audio commentary track featuring Director Dan Trachtenberg and other key crew members is also included, providing deeper insights into the filmmaking process.