Film Stories with Simon Brew

The Prestige (2006), plus Dan Trachtenberg on Predator: Badlands and more

Nov 3, 2025
Dan Trachtenberg, celebrated for directing 10 Cloverfield Lane and Prey, dives deep into the making of Predator: Badlands. He shares the creative challenges of featuring a teenage Predator and how genre influences shaped its tone. Film journalist Ryan Lambie, an avid Predator fan, engages Trachtenberg on collaborations with VFX teams and the narrative ties to the wider Predator universe. Plus, they discuss the impact of online video cultures on future filmmakers. It's a captivating look at evolving storytelling in film!
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ANECDOTE

Nolan Traveled To Convince Bowie To Play Tesla

  • David Bowie initially turned down the role of Tesla and Nolan flew to New York to persuade him.
  • Bowie accepted after Nolan explained his specific vision for the part.
INSIGHT

Initial Mixed Reviews Didn't Stop Its Growth

  • Early critical reception to The Prestige was mixed, but lowered expectations helped its premiere transform into strong word-of-mouth.
  • The film then climbed box-office charts and gained reputation over time as Nolan's stature rose.
INSIGHT

Making The Predator The Central Character

  • Dan Trachtenberg embraced the challenge of centering a Predator film on the creature with subtitles and VFX-heavy shots.
  • That ambition became a rallying cry rather than a deterrent for the team.
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