UPDATE: In a stunning box office turn, Predator: Badlands has officially surpassed Kevin Costner’s notorious sci-fi film Waterworld at the domestic box office, marking a significant milestone for the franchise. Predator: Badlands, which opened to critical acclaim, has grossed $88.4 million, edging out Waterworld’s $88.2 million total.
This recent development is particularly striking given Waterworld’s infamous reputation as one of the most expensive films ever produced, with a budget that ballooned from $100 million to a staggering $175 million during production. Released in 1995, Waterworld was plagued by severe weather and logistical challenges, leading to its mixed reception at the time.
In contrast, Predator: Badlands, directed by Dan Trachtenberg, has garnered a certified fresh rating of 86% on Rotten Tomatoes and an impressive 96% audience score, indicating a strong response from viewers. This film, with a reported budget of $105 million, is on track to become the highest-grossing installment in the Predator franchise, despite not yet reaching the $100 million threshold domestically.
The film’s success comes as it continues to break records in the sci-fi genre, propelling it past several predecessors. Critics praise Trachtenberg for revitalizing the franchise, with one review stating, “
Director Dan Trachtenberg continues to take the Predator franchise in exciting new directions with Badlands, a rollicking adventure that transforms one of cinema’s most iconic brutes into a hero worth rooting for.
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The release of Predator: Badlands is set against a backdrop of heightened competition at the box office, as audiences flock to theaters for new content. This surge in interest reflects changing viewer preferences and showcases the potential for established franchises to thrive in today’s cinematic landscape.
As Predator: Badlands continues its run, all eyes are on whether it can break the significant milestones of $100 million domestically and $200 million worldwide. Fans are eagerly awaiting updates as the film’s trajectory unfolds.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the box office battle heats up.
