In a Galaxy Not So Far AwayPredator: Badlands, the latest cinematic thrill set to hit theaters on November 7, 2025, comes with an unexpected piece of trivia that intertwines Star Wars folklore with the Predator universe. The mighty Chewbacca’s act of bonding with the dismantled C-3PO in Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back has ignited director Dan Trachtenberg’s vision for a central theme in Badlands. As stated in IGN, this creative nod vividly animates a new sci-fi saga.A Synthesis of Classic and NewThe narrative unfolds with Elle Fanning’s character, Thia, who finds an unlikely alliance with a young Predator named Dek, played by Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi. After a fierce confrontation, Thia becomes reliant on Dek, resembling the Star Wars duo, as she lays split in half. The scene echoes its sci-fi predecessor yet carves a unique niche as Thia, a Weyland-Yutani synth, partners with Dek to face an immortal beast—a challenge of epic proportions fittingly dubbed the ultimate apex predator.The Inspirations Beyond StarsWhile drawing from the unmistakable Star Wars motif, Predator: Badlands also finds its muse in gaming classics. The visionary Trachtenberg credits Half-Life 2, Uncharted, Prince of Persia, and God of War as pivotal influences. This convergence of different artistic expressions births a dynamic storytelling mechanic that enhances the symbiosis between Dek and Thia, adding layers of interactivity and engagement to the cinematic experience.Awaiting the FansAnticipation builds among the Predator loyalists to witness how these influences are sewn together—each carrying echoes of Alien’s legacy. As Predator: Badlands prepares to debut, the film promises not just action-packed sequences but a deep dive into a world interconnected through cinematic history.Stay tuned as the evolution of Predator: Badlands unfolds, offering a fusion of worlds old and new in a thrilling narrative set to captivate audiences across galaxies.Wesley is Director, News at IGN. Follow his insights on Twitter at @wyp100 or reach him at wesley_yinpoole@ign.com.