Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Predator: Badlands’ Scores A– CinemaScore as Opening Projections Climb Past Expectations

A PG-13 reinvention with clear Alien‑universe nods is fueling word of mouth that lifts early grosses above tracking.

Overview

  • Industry estimates peg Friday at about $15.6 million with a domestic weekend now forecast in the $36 million–$38.5 million range, with some outlets suggesting it could approach $40 million.
  • The film earned an A– CinemaScore, a franchise best, alongside a Certified Fresh 85% critics score and a 96% Rotten Tomatoes audience rating.
  • Trade analysts say the launch is poised to be the top opening for a standalone Predator title and could challenge AVP’s $38.4 million debut (unadjusted).
  • Reviewers highlight the franchise’s PG-13 shift and character‑driven focus, with the story centered on non‑human leads.
  • Director Dan Trachtenberg confirms explicit Alien ties such as Weyland‑Yutani and MU/TH/UR, and notes multiple Predator concepts in development, though no sequel is officially announced.