Get ready for a thrilling tale of sci-fi adventure and unique physical abilities! Elle Fanning's portrayal of an android in 'Predator: Badlands' is a testament to her extraordinary talent and some intriguing natural gifts.
In this action-packed film, Elle Fanning takes on the role of Thia, an android who finds herself in the dangerous alien world of Genna. Genna is a hostile environment, teeming with deadly plants and creatures. From quick-moving tentacles to razor-sharp grasses, and even indestructible apes and acid-spitting eels, Genna is a true test of survival.
Thia, or rather her top half, is discovered by the Yautja hunter Dek, played by Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi. She explains her tragic encounter with the local wildlife, which left her in need of Dek's protection. Throughout the film, Thia provides Dek with valuable insights into the biome, all while maintaining her curious and chatty demeanor.
But here's where it gets controversial... Thia isn't the only android in the story. Later, we meet Tessa, Thia's 'sister,' also played by Fanning. And this is where Fanning's unique physical abilities come into play.
In a recent interview, Elle Fanning revealed that her double-jointed elbows and ability to go without blinking for extended periods added an eerie, almost supernatural element to her performance. She proudly stated, "I do have double-jointed elbows, and I'm glad it showed in a few scenes. I can also keep my eyes open for a very long time without blinking, and that was all me, no computer effects!"
Schuster-Koloamatangi, her co-star, agreed that Fanning's unusual talents were an asset. He recalled being surprised by her bendy arms and wide-open eyes, adding a layer of authenticity to the android characters.
Given the physical nature of Thia's role, with her being thrown around and bound to Dek's back, Fanning's natural flexibility was a perfect fit. It also allowed for practical effects to be used, a challenge the director, Dan Trachtenberg, was eager to embrace due to the extensive use of VFX in the film.
So, what do you think? Did Elle Fanning's unique abilities enhance her performance, or were they merely a curious addition? Let us know in the comments! 'Predator: Badlands' is now showing in theaters, so go check it out and decide for yourself!
