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