Prey is a refreshing departure from the typical Predator franchise, offering a unique and culturally significant perspective. Set during the French and Indian War, the film follows Naru, a talented Comanche warrior, as she hunts down a deadly alien predator in the American wilderness. Unlike previous installments, Prey places the indigenous people at the center of the narrative, showcasing their skills, traditions, and resilience.
The film’s stunning cinematography and practical effects create a visually immersive experience, transporting viewers to the rugged beauty of the 18th-century frontier. With its compelling characters, thrilling action sequences, and thought-provoking themes, Prey is a must-see for both fans of the Predator franchise and those seeking a fresh take on historical fiction.
Review by Ben Dover:
Prey (2022): A Thrilling Hunt Through Time
Prey, the latest installment in the Predator franchise, takes us back to the 1700s for a primal showdown between a Comanche warrior and the ultimate hunter, the Predator. This prequel ditches the modern-day setting and instead plunges us into the heart of the wilderness in 1719 America, where survival is a constant struggle.
The Hunt Begins
The film follows Narú, a skilled Comanche hunter who defies societal expectations to prove her worth. She has more grit than a sandwich at a beach picnic. When a mysterious and deadly creature enters her territory, Narú must use all her skills and cunning to survive. The Predator, with its advanced technology and ruthless efficiency, is a formidable opponent, but Narú is no pushover. Amber Midthunder plays our heroine, and let me tell you, she’s tougher than a two-dollar steak. She spends the movie proving that you don’t need rippling muscles and cheesy one-liners to take on a Predator – just a whole lot of smarts and a refusal to quit that’d make a mule look cooperative.
A Breathtaking Landscape
Prey’s greatest strength lies in its stunning visuals. The film captures the beauty and danger of the Great Plains with breathtaking cinematography. From the vast grasslands to the dense forests, every shot is a feast for the eyes. This immersive environment adds to the film’s suspense and makes the hunt feel truly visceral.
A Story of Survival and Resilience
While the Predator is undoubtedly the main attraction, Prey is ultimately a story about Narú’s journey to self-discovery. She’s not just fighting for her life; she’s fighting for her right to be recognized as a warrior in a world that dismisses her talents. Her determination and resilience are inspiring, making her a compelling protagonist.
A Modern Take on a Classic Franchise
Prey manages to feel both familiar and fresh. It pays homage to the original Predator film while introducing new elements that breathe life into the franchise. The film’s focus on Native American culture adds a unique perspective to the story, and the Predator’s design, while still recognizable, feels more menacing and brutal.
The period setting adds a whole new layer to the hunt. Watching 18th-century weapons go up against alien tech is like seeing a knife brought to a gunfight – thrilling, if a bit one-sided. But our girl Naru proves that sometimes, brains beat brawn… and plasma cannons.
Final Thoughts
Prey is a thrilling and suspenseful film that delivers on its promise of a primal showdown. It’s a visually stunning and emotionally engaging story that will leave you wanting more. While some may find the CGI to be a bit rough around the edges, the film’s strengths outweigh its weaknesses. If you’re a fan of the Predator franchise or simply enjoy a good action-horror film, Prey is definitely worth checking out.
Final Rating:
Out of 5, I’d give Prey a 4. It’s a well-crafted film with a compelling story, stunning visuals, and a captivating performance from Amber Midthunder. While not perfect, it’s a welcome addition to the Predator franchise and a must-see for fans of the genre.
Notes:
Rating: R
Runtime: 1 hour 40 minutes
Gross worldwide: $ (Pandemic Hulu film).
Budget: $65,000,000 (estimated)
This is a visually stunning movie in every way from the sci-fi to the natural aspects.
The script was rewritten by two Comanche activists to ensure its depiction of Comanche culture wasn’t inaccurate or stereotypical and it shows as the accuracy in this movie is unreal down to the flowers used.
When Naru runs from the predator and crouches in the tall grass, the grass was actually grown by the films production team. They figured out where they’d be filming, planted at the start of production, and then reaped what they sowed
In real-life, Naru would have easier time in proving herself before her peers as women warriors being among the various Great Plains Nations were actually very common and would sometimes even lead other warriors into battle
Taabe (Dakota Beavers) says about the Predator after wounding it: “If it bleeds… we can kill it.” It pays tribute to the first Predator (1987), where those same words were said by Alan “Dutch” Schaefer (Arnold Schwarzenegger).
French trappers say “I’ve got a bad feeling about this”, and “it’s a trap”. French Star Wars Easter eggs.
Quotes:
Naru: I don’t know that this thing can be killed.
Taabe: If it bleeds, we can kill it.
Naru: You bled my brother. So now you bleed. You think that I am not a hunter like you. That I am not a threat. That is what makes me dangerous. You can’t see that I’m killing you. And it won’t either.
Sumu (Chief Wife): My girl, you are good at so many things. Why do you want to hunt?
Naru: Because you all think I can’t.
Critics Consensus:
Critics 94% Audience 74% Rotten Tomatoes
The rare action thriller that spikes adrenaline without skimping on character development, Prey is a Predator prequel done right.
Trailer:
Plot Summary (copilot):
Set in 1719 in the Northern Great Plains, the story follows Naru, a young Comanche woman who dreams of becoming a great hunter like her brother, Taabe. While tracking deer, Naru witnesses strange lights in the sky, which she believes to be a Thunderbird, signaling her readiness to hunt. However, these lights are actually from an alien dropship.
As Naru strives to prove herself, she discovers that a vicious, humanoid alien is hunting humans for sport. This alien, known as the Predator, begins to target her tribe. Naru must use her skills and intelligence to protect her people from this deadly threat, as well as from French fur traders who are destroying the buffalo her tribe relies on for survival.
Key Themes:
- Survival and Courage: Naru’s journey is one of bravery and determination as she faces both human and extraterrestrial threats.
- Cultural Heritage: The film highlights the Comanche culture and features a predominantly indigenous cast, adding authenticity and depth to the story.