Predator: Badlands Tops Box Office with $80 Million Global Gross
NEW YORK – The latest entry in the long‑running Predator franchise, *Predator: Badlands*, led North American theaters this weekend with a $40 million opening, according to studio estimates released Sunday. The strong debut pushed the film’s worldwide total to roughly $80 million, surpassing early forecasts and giving the franchise a solid boost after a series of mixed‑performance sequels.
Directed by a veteran action filmmaker and starring a returning lead actor, *Badlands* follows a group of mercenaries who encounter the iconic alien hunter in a desolate desert setting. The studio promoted the film heavily through a blend of traditional TV spots, digital campaigns, and fan‑focused events, positioning it as a summer‑season tentpole aimed at both longtime fans and a broader action‑movie audience.
The opening weekend performance was notable given the competitive slate of releases, which included a high‑budget superhero sequel and a critically acclaimed drama. Industry analysts attribute the film’s success to its modest budget, effective word‑of‑mouth promotion, and the enduring popularity of the Predator brand, which has cultivated a loyal fan base over three decades.
Studio representatives said the results “exceeded our internal projections and demonstrate strong audience appetite for well‑crafted franchise entries.” Market watchers echoed this sentiment, noting that the $40 million domestic haul places *Badlands* among the top‑grossing openings for mid‑budget action titles this year. Theater operators reported high occupancy rates for evening showings, especially in suburban multiplexes.
Looking ahead, the film is set to continue its rollout in key international markets such as the United Kingdom, Germany, and Brazil, where early pre‑sales suggest additional growth. If the momentum holds, *Predator: Badlands* could finish its theatrical run with a global total exceeding $120 million, strengthening the studio’s position ahead of upcoming releases and potentially paving the way for further installments in the series.
