Kevin Costner’s Waterworld Overtaken by Predator: Badlands at Box Office

UPDATE: In a dramatic turn of events at the box office, Predator: Badlands has officially overtaken Waterworld, once deemed the most expensive film ever made, in domestic earnings. This latest installment of the Predator franchise has grossed $88.4 million to date, surpassing Waterworld’s $88.2 million run.

The success of Predator: Badlands, directed by Dan Trachtenberg, highlights a significant shift in audience preference, as it continues to dominate discussions in theaters across the nation. Released on November 5, 2025, the film has garnered a certified fresh rating of 86% on Rotten Tomatoes, with an impressive 96% audience score, reflecting its strong appeal among viewers.

Why This Matters: The box office battle illustrates not just changing trends in Hollywood, but also the resilience of the Predator franchise, which has successfully reinvented itself. As Predator: Badlands continues to gain traction, it stands poised to reach new financial milestones. Despite its production budget of $105 million, the film’s performance suggests a strong post-theatrical run ahead.

In contrast, Waterworld, released in 1995, was marred by production difficulties, including severe weather conditions and an initially inflated budget that ballooned to $175 million. Although it eventually recouped its costs through ancillary revenue, its recent dethroning marks a symbolic end of an era.

The shift in box office rankings is a testament to evolving cinematic tastes, as audiences are drawn to innovative storytelling and fresh takes on classic franchises.

What’s Next? Following its successful debut, industry experts are closely monitoring the trajectory of Predator: Badlands. Can it surpass the $100 million mark domestically and reach $200 million worldwide? As the film continues to attract viewers, the answer to that question may soon become clear.

As the film landscape shifts, fans and critics alike are eager to see how these developments will affect future projects and industry standards. Stay tuned for more updates as this situation evolves.