AceShowbiz - Excitement for the "Predator" franchise reached new heights with the announcement of "Predator: Badlands", a new installment directed by Prey filmmaker Dan Trachtenberg, arriving in theaters on November 2025. However, the news was soon eclipsed by the revelation of a second, secret "Predator" film also slated for 2025.

Speculation surrounds the nature of this secret project, with a rumor from Gizmodo suggesting that it could be an animated anthology. According to sources, the film will present three distinct stories featuring Predators battling warriors in different eras. One story is rumored to revolve around pirates, another around samurai, with the third remaining unknown.

This rumor aligns with previous statements from 20th Century Studios president Steve Asbell, who revealed that Trachtenberg had pitched "crazy but cool" ideas after the success of "Prey". Asbell also hinted at the existence of the animated film, noting that the studio had been working on a "non-live-action 'Predator' film."

An animated "Predator" film would mark a significant departure for the franchise, which has primarily consisted of live-action films, novels, comics and video games. However, the secrecy surrounding the project suggests that it may be easier to keep animation under wraps than filming traditional live-action installments.

While the animated anthology rumor remains unconfirmed, it aligns with the desire to expand the "Predator" franchise and explore different concepts without committing to a direct sequel. Additionally, the format allows Trachtenberg to continue experimenting with the "Predator" character in different historical periods, as seen in Prey.

Another intriguing rumor suggests that the third story in the animated anthology could be an "Alien vs. Predator" continuation. Asbell has previously expressed interest in revisiting the "Alien vs. Predator" concept but emphasized that it would be a distinct take on the franchise.

While an official confirmation of the animated "Predator" anthology is still pending, the potential for such a project adds another layer of excitement to the upcoming "Predator: Badlands" and hints at the franchise's continued evolution in the coming years.