So far, in the 35 years the Predator franchise has graced our screens, we have endured 5 outings (7 if you include the Alien Vs Predator abominations). Given how many attempts to revitalise the franchise have come and gone, the series had started feeling ever so slightly stale.
Now, with some of the instalments such as the aforementioned AVP films, not much was expected of them and it was a clear cash grab attempt – a failed one at that. However in regards to 2010’s Predators and 2018’s The Predator, there was genuine hope for a breath of fresh air and a new direction into the franchise that brought it into the 21st century.
This only meant it hurt that much more when we were graced with a lack of innovation in the series and the unforgivable introduction of the Predator dogs.
It turns out though, in order to successfully bring this franchise forward, we had to look back and see how this creature learned to become The Predator. Prey’s director Dan Trechenberg creates a masterclass in how to make a sequel or prequel to an original movie. He not only understands what made the original so successful, but builds upon the lore in an interesting and beautiful manner that only makes you want more.
The move to pit some of the most resourceful survivalists in history against the universe’s greatest Predator was an ingenious move, and made the film about an indigenous tribe fighting the great big alien from outer space feel surprisingly grounded. This, of course works in its favour in terms of growing the tension and encouraging the audience to root for our main characters to prevail.
Predator vs Prey
So given how wrong some previous instalments got it, what actually makes Prey different to its predecessors?
Prey creates a balance between a slow paced but tense story and a compelling protagonist with Naru, making it a delight to watch. It rewards you throughout as she naturally becomes a far greater hunter as the movie progresses.
The film doesn’t start off with this perfect opponent straight away, and nor does it just laugh the audience straight into finely tuned combat with dramatic explosions and lots of guns. Instead we are met with a protagonist who learns from her mistakes in previous scenes and gains skills and insight with each encounter of the creature.
This creates a final act – that admittedly is not without its faults and does feel a little rushed – which is overall a much more enjoyable fight to watch, as it sticks to its strengths of staying simple is better. You see a culmination of all you have witnessed before as our main character utilises her skills, knowledge and strength to take on the Predator ensuring an enjoyable and coherent end.
Joining The Hall Of Fame Of Badass Women
The Prey Prequel executes a number of aspects which make it a standout from other instalments in this franchise, but none more so than its protagonist Amber Midthunder Naru. She emulates some of the best female 80’s horror survivalists, in the likes of Ellen Ripley and Sarah Connor.
Despite a strong main character this can, at points, leave the rest of the cast a little one dimensional. Prey might have benefited from further developing the dynamic between Naru and her brother, Taabe, in order to truly make their on screen relationship more impactful and effective in the story.
However, this is no way near enough to derail this thrilling action horror. It is a much needed refresh for the series and offers an ominous and intriguing look at what could be next for the new and invigorated franchise. This is certainly another gem for Dan Trechenberg to add to his mantle place along with 10 Cloverfield Lane and our on screen introduction into the world of The Boys.
Verdict
Prey is a much needed reinvigoration for what felt like a tired franchise and not only proves there is a lot more life in it yet but also offers a bright future for the Predator franchise.
Director Dan Trechenberg showcases a masterclass on how to successfully create a follow on to a beloved film with this thrilling and, at times, truly tense instalment. Amber Midthunder Naru is a fantastic addition to the franchise and is a pleasure to watch as she unfolds into an amazing badass survivalist. Despite some one dimensional characters and a rushed third act, the awe inspiring showdown between our hero and villain is the best the series has offered in some time.
