The Predator film franchise, which began over three decades ago, is renowned for its distinct and varied storytelling. Unlike many cinematic series, each of the seven Predator films presents a unique perspective, often disregarding previous narratives. The latest entry, Prey, further diverges by taking place centuries before the other films in the series. The franchise commenced in 1987 with the original film, featuring the then-emerging superstar Arnold Schwarzenegger, and showcased groundbreaking visual effects and prosthetics that set a new standard in the industry.
This strong foundation not only made the first film a critical success but also paved the way for a sequel, Predator 2, released in 1990, which starred Danny Glover and shifted the action from the jungle to an urban environment. The introduction of a xenomorph skull in Predator 2 initiated an iconic crossover, leading to Predators in 2010 and Shane Black’s The Predator in 2018, followed by Prey on Hulu in 2022.
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Aliens vs. Predator vs. Predator: Requiem (2007)
The Spin-Off Sequel Ends the Aliens & Predator Crossovers
Considered the weakest installment of both the Predator and Alien franchises, AvP: Requiem (2007) failed to resonate with audiences and critics alike. Set in a contemporary small-town setting, the film attempted to merge slasher horror with sci-fi elements, but it struggled to uphold the Predator’s code of honor. This resulted in a narrative that lacked depth and visual coherence.
The film, directed by the Strause brothers, sought to employ an R-rating to amplify the horror, but the execution was inconsistent. While certain scenes, like Xenomorph blood melting a character’s face, presented flashes of creativity, other moments felt gratuitous, especially the introduction of Chestbursters. The potential of showcasing a Predalien was squandered, resulting in an underwhelming antagonist that contributed little to the plot.
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Alien vs. Predator (2004)
The Predators Begin Hunting Xenomorphs
Launched in 2004 by director Paul W. S. Anderson, Alien vs. Predator served more as a reboot than a sequel, emerging six years after Alien: Resurrection and 14 years post Predator 2. Despite the heavy anticipation for a collision between these two beloved franchises, the film ultimately disappointed fans due to its lackluster narrative and PG-13 rating, which diminished the impact of its action sequences.
While the film featured notable callbacks to earlier works, including a cameo from Lance Henriksen as Charles Weyland, much of the action felt like a rehash of previous plots. Nevertheless, diehard fans appreciated seeing Predators and Xenomorphs battle on screen for the first time, even if the outcome was underwhelming.
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The Predator (2018)
Shane Black Brings Back Predator As a Hero
Shane Black’s 2018 installment, The Predator, presents challenges when positioning it against its predecessors. Fast-paced editing and an abundance of ideas often overshadow its coherence, leading to a film that fails to deeply engage its characters or ideas. Yet, it also reignites some traditional franchise elements, providing exhilarating visuals with unique alien technology.
The character dynamics, particularly involving Boyd Holbrook and Olivia Munn’s portrayals, offer a glimpse of the sharp humor appreciated by audiences. Despite this upside, the film’s shift in the Predators’ motivations from hunting for sport to planetary domination weakened the narrative, as it diluted the Yautja’s appeal.
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Predator 2 (1990)
The Predators Head to the Big City
Transitioning from the jungle to the urban chaos of 1990s Los Angeles, Predator 2 faced immense narrative challenges as it mirrored the original film’s plots. Set against a backdrop of gang warfare, the screenplay introduces Danny Glover’s character, who contends with not just one, but a group of Predators. While its noted budget allowed for visually striking sequences, the central storyline felt recycled.
Despite attempts to weave in political intrigue and department conspiracies, the film fails to recreate the tension of its predecessor. Nevertheless, the finale showcases Glover aboard a Predator ship, discovering a museum of past hunts that includes a Xenomorph skull, a moment that resonates with franchise enthusiasts.
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Predators (2010)
Predators Hunting Prisoners on an Alien Planet
Predators, released in 2010, is frequently overlooked, though it boasts a premise rich with potential. Set on a distant planet designated as a Predator hunting ground, the film showcases deadly human characters abducted for sport. While it doesn’t reinvent the wheel in terms of ambition, it successfully reinvigorates the franchise with notable characters and a novel setting.
Though it provides a solid experience for fans, some action sequences feel uninspired, primarily due to reliance on rapid editing. Still, the film was warmly received, with its strong cast providing depth, and many enthusiasts were disappointed when plans for a sequel were ultimately scrapped.
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Predator (1987)
The One That Started It All
Although it may not be Arnold Schwarzenegger’s most celebrated performance or John McTiernan’s finest work, Predator (1987) initiated a franchise that has proven to be challenging to replicate. This film set an impressive standard, one that would not be matched until the release of Prey. Predator captivates with its brilliant execution of a seemingly simple premise that evolves into a thrilling narrative of survival and cunning.
After an initial engaging action sequence, the film transforms into a chilling hunt, featuring an enigmatic villain. The Predator, an unforgettable character design, presented formidable challenges even for its fiercest opponents, culminating in a tense and memorable showdown between Schwarzenegger and the alien hunter. As a cornerstone of cinema history, Predator remains a classic and a benchmark for future entries.
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Prey (2022)
The Prequel Three Centuries in the Past
Premiering on Hulu, Prey was anticipated by fans and critics as a potential revival for the franchise, and it far exceeded expectations. Described as one of Predator’s soft reboots, the film follows Comanche hunter Naru tracking a Feral Predator in 1719. This creative gamble paid off, attracting a new audience while satisfying long-time franchise fans.
Prey earns recognition as the finest installment by returning to the series’ roots while enhancing them. The film successfully replicates the suspenseful atmosphere of the original, featuring breathtaking cinematography and realistic special effects that integrate seamlessly with its historical setting. The delicate balance between CGI and practical effects ensures that the film is immersive, grounded in its 1700s environment.
The Future of the Predator Franchise
Upon Prey‘s success, director Dan Trachtenberg is looking to the future with plans for new installments. Its reception spurred the announcement of two films set for release in 2025, starting with Predator: Badlands, which will return the franchise to theaters on November 7, 2025, featuring Elle Fanning in the lead role.
Additionally, another unnamed Predator film is set to stream before Predator: Badlands. While details remain scarce regarding its content or connection to previous films, speculation suggests it may follow in the footsteps of Prey and premiere on Hulu.