Did Savage Lands introduce the franchise’s first gay Predator?

Predator: Wildlands has been recording impressive numbers and critical praise, but not all fans are satisfied with the direction of the franchise. The film, directed by Dan Trachtenberg – the same as The Predator: The Hunt -, grossed more than 80 million dollars in its opening weekend, becoming the biggest opening in the series’ history Predator. Despite this, the film also became the target of criticism from viewers who consider it the first “Disney Predator” for having a lighter and more emotional tone.

According to some comments on social media, Wildlands it would be the most “family” version of the franchise, with less brutality and more focus on empathy. The story follows Dek, a young Yautja (alien species of Predators) considered the “weak” of his tribe, who ends up joining two human women on a journey that mixes friendship, self-discovery and acceptance. The film also features Bud, a small creature who, in the end, is revealed to be the daughter of Kalisk, an unprecedented touch of tenderness for the saga known for its violence and atmosphere of extreme survival.

The more emotional approach divided the public. While many praised Trachtenberg’s boldness in reinventing the franchise and giving more depth to the protagonist, others claim that the film “dilutes” the essence of Predatortraditionally marked by the dark tone and brutality of its hunts.

Gay predator?

On the networks, part of the criticism also focused on a misreading of a review published by The Hollywood Reporterwhich jokingly suggested that “this Predator is gay.” The author of the text, Richard Lawson, later clarified that the comment was ironic, but the excerpt was quickly amplified and interpreted literally by fans.

In fact, the film does not make any direct reference to the protagonist’s sexuality. Some viewers, however, saw symbolic parallels between the clan’s attempt to eliminate Dek – seen as “weak” – and the prejudice of a father who rejects his own son for being different.

As the debate continues, Predator: Wildlands continues to attract audiences to cinemas and establishes itself as one of the most talked about premieres of the year. The mix of action, adventure and sensitivity may not please all veteran fans, but it indicates a new creative phase for one of science fiction’s longest-running franchises.

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