Episode Summary
JR and Stacey review Predator: Badlands, the seventh installment in the Predator franchise. The discussion covers the film's unique storytelling approach, its connection to the Alien franchise through the Waylon-Yutani corporation, and whether it's accessible to newcomers.
- Release Date: November 7, 2024
- Budget: $105 million
- Box Office: $184.3 million
- Notable Cast: Elle Fanning (Dakota Fanning's younger sister) as an Android
- Franchise Position: 7th installment, follows Prey (2022)
- Related Content: Ties to Predators: Killer of Killers (2025 animated film) and Marvel comic book series
Unique Perspective
- Film tells story from the Predator's point of view
- Shows internal power struggles among Predators
- Explores conflict with Waylon-Yutani corporation
Franchise Connections
- Bridges Alien and Predator universes through Waylon-Yutani
- References to Alien vs. Predator films
- Comparison to Alien: Romulus (2024) - budget $80M, earned $350M
Accessibility for New Viewers
- JR considers it an easy entry point for sci-fi newcomers
- Similar to Alien: Romulus in being newcomer-friendly
- Can be enjoyed without seeing previous films
- Important: The hosts watched a version without English subtitles for the Predator's alien language, which significantly impacted Stacey's viewing experience
- Proper version includes English subtitles for full comprehension
JR Sparrow:
- Enthusiastic about the film
- Appreciates the world-building and Waylon-Yutani connections
- Would recommend to sci-fi newcomers
- Rates it worthy of his "sci-fi catalog"
Stacey Sparrow:
- Admits to only half-watching due to language barrier
- Interested in rewatching with proper subtitles
- Plans to watch the entire Alien/Predator franchise from the beginning
- Recalls enjoying Alien: Romulus in theaters (August 2024)
Watch if you like:
- Tension and atmosphere
- Predator as an actual threat
- Science fiction world-building
Skip if you want:
- Constant explosions
- Frequent jokes
- Fast-paced action without substance
- Prey (2022) - Previous Predator film, mentioned as must-watch
- Alien: Romulus (2024) - Comparable in accessibility
- Predators: Killer of Killers (2025) - Animated companion piece
Sparrows Under Review - Available on all major podcast platforms
Sister Show: Pod and Saved Our Marriage with King Jerm and Queen Jerm - New episodes every Friday
Key Discussion PointsMovie OverviewMain Themes DiscussedTechnical NoteHosts' PerspectivesRecommendationsRelated ViewingPodcast Information
