The latest chapter in the Predator franchise roars to the top with its biggest debut ever — proving the alien hunter still commands the big screen.

A Championship Debut

November 10, 2025: The newest instalment in the Predator saga has arrived with a bang. Predator: Badlands opened in theatres this weekend with an estimated $40 million in North America and another $40 million internationally, bringing its global total to approximately $80 million. This marks the highest opening ever for the nearly 40-year-old franchise, surpassing all previous records.

Why the Big Numbers?

Several factors contributed to the film’s standout debut:

Franchise Legacy + Fresh Tone: While the Predator brand is decades old, this edition refreshed the formula — introducing new characters and settings while retaining the core thrill of high-stakes alien hunts.

Strong Fan Anticipation: The series has built up loyal viewers over the years, and overdue sequel buzz helped drive early ticket sales.

Strategic Release Timing: With limited major competition this weekend, Badlands landed at the top when audiences were ready for a new big-screen event.

Positive Reception: Early reviews and word of mouth indicated a favourable response, encouraging more movie-goers to check it out in theatres.

What the Record Means

This achievement is more than a box-office win — it signals a few key shifts in Hollywood:

Franchise films still hold power when they reinvest in strong characters and spectacle.

Mid-to-late-season releases (outside of summer) can succeed when executed well.

The global market remains vital: half the debut comes from international audiences, showing how big-screen entertainment transcends borders.

Looking Ahead

While opening weekend numbers are strong, the real test lies in how Predator: Badlands performs in the coming weeks — its staying power, word-of-mouth legs, and international expansions will determine whether it becomes a franchise revival or a high-water mark. For now, though, the hunted have become the box-office hunters.