Prey: A Predator Prequel That Actually Bites Back - And How!
The Predator franchise evokes images of jungles, advanced weapons, and a menacing alien. After the excitement of Schwarzenegger’s battle in 1987, the series faced many lows. Enter "Prey" in 2022, shifting the action to the 18th century Comanche era. It works and roars.
Was "Prey" a Hit or a Flop? Spoiler Alert: It Landed Squarely in "Hit" Territory
Cutting to the chase. Did "Prey" score big? It never hit theaters. Instead, "Prey" went straight to Hulu. Does that mean it failed? No. Streaming can lead to massive success without traditional ticket sales. "Prey" achieved just that.
Critical Acclaim: Critics Went Wild for "Prey"
Critics loved "Prey." Visit Rotten Tomatoes. There, you'll find a remarkable 94% positive review rate from 286 critiques. It is impressive. The average score is 7.7 out of 10. To critics, that's a strong commendation.
On Rotten Tomatoes, the consensus states: "An adrenaline-spiking thriller with rich character depth, Prey is a Predator sequel done right." These words matter. After a string of subpar entries, "Prey" hits all the right notes. It combines thrill with character depth. Truly revolutionary.
Commercial Success: Disney Scored a Streaming Victory
But did audiences watch it? Indeed! "Prey" awe critics and audiences alike. It became a streaming hit for Disney, who now owns Predator. Exact view numbers often hide like secret recipes, yet it's clear that "Prey" was a massive Hulu success.
Viewership Records: King of the Streaming Jungle
"Prey" did not just get popular; it broke records. Upon release, it became the most-viewed film in the U.S. What an achievement! In a landscape full of options, "Prey" climbed to the top and made a cultural impact.
"Prey" (2022): Setting the Stage in the 18th Century Great Plains
"Prey" transports us to 1719. No bustling cities or modern jungles. We see the Northern Great Plains of North America, with vast grasslands and untouched nature. This historical backdrop shapes the film's unique identity.
Comanche Nation Front and Center
Naru leads the story, portrayed fiercely by Amber Midthunder. As a young Comanche woman, Naru strives to prove herself as a hunter. This character isn't generic; she embodies Comanche culture and tradition authentically.
The film's production involved the Comanche Nation extensively. From costuming to cultural accuracy, their input was essential. "Prey" presented its story faithfully and insightfully. Remarkably, it included a full Comanche language dubbing, boosting representation.
Historical Accuracy: More Than Just Sci-Fi Action
"Prey" is a sci-fi action film, featuring an alien hunter. Still, it sought historical accuracy with its depiction of the Comanche Nation in 1719. The filmmakers researched exhaustively, recreating a world of centuries past.
Some narrative liberties exist – it's still a Predator tale – yet the focus on the Comanche lifestyle is evident. This dedication enhances "Prey," moving it beyond typical genre conventions. It combines action with historical and cultural respect.
The Story Behind "Prey": Fact vs. Fiction (Spoiler: It's Mostly Fiction with a Dash of Inspiration)
Is "Prey" based on true events? Many ask this, especially since another film called "Prey" in 2007 loosely draws from real events, concerning the Tsavo Man-Eaters in Africa. Confusing, right? Let’s clarify.
Not Based on a True Story (Thank Goodness for the Comanche)
The 2022 "Prey" isn't rooted in historical fact. It is a sci-fi prequel to the Predator saga. There are no records of alien hunters facing Comanche warriors in 1719. If there were, history class would become captivating.
Inspiration from Real History: Drawing from the Past
While "Prey" isn't a documentary, it borrows from real history. Filmmakers immersed themselves in Comanche culture and history with ample research and consultations. The hunting practices and spiritual beliefs displayed in the film reflect historical truths.
The Predator in "Prey": Meet the Feral Predator – Leaner, Meaner, and More Primal
The Predator in "Prey" stands out among its peers. This creature differs significantly from the advanced hunter we witnessed in 1987. This one is primal and feral.
Different Appearance, Different Breed: Introducing the Feral Predator
This film's Predator is dubbed the "Feral Predator." The term reflects a distinct subspecies, one existing hundreds of years earlier than its modern counterparts. A variant that adds complexity to the lore.
This evolutionary background explains its physical features. The Feral Predator is leaner, more agile, and rougher around the edges. A hulking, high-tech beast would be out of place in 1719, while this being fits seamlessly into that context.
Why the Different Look? Evolution and Environment
Its appearance arises from an imagined evolutionary history. Genetic isolation and regional environmental forces created this unique Yautja variant. Adaptations highlight its design choices.
This Predator thrives in drier climates with thinner dreadlocks and scalier skin for moisture retention. Its facial structure adds adaptability for thermal vision through its bone mask.
Time Period Setting: Predator: 1719 Edition
This 1700s backdrop provides essential context for understanding design and capabilities of the Feral Predator. It highlights how adaptation and setting affect the creature's traits and actions.
The original "Predator" movie events establish the Feral Predator's more primitive nature. His technology is less advanced. This creature functions as a prototype, embodying a raw version of the hunter we know.
Design and Characteristics: Lean, Mean Hunting Machine
The Feral Predator's design shows off his primal traits. He has a leaner, athletic frame, unlike the bulkier classic Predator. His weaponry is simple and brutal. This quality emphasizes his feral appearance, indicating untamed and wild aspects.
Visually, he wears a bone mask that gives a tribal look, lacking technological flair. He also uses a gauntlet shield. This piece offers more defense than offense compared to the classic Predator's wrist blades.
Technology and Weaponry: Back to Basics
Out with plasma cannons and cloaking devices... well, he has a cloaking device, but it is less refined. The Feral Predator favors metal spear tips and arrows, favoring a low-tech approach. His weapons feel brutally effective, reminiscent of 18th-century tools, even with an alien twist. This choice enhances the film’s setting and reflects his primitive nature. He uses weapons that resonate with his prey's understanding, creating a level playing field in his twisted view.
Dane DiLiegro: The Man Behind the Mask
Dane DiLiegro brings the Feral Predator to life. Like Kevin Peter Hall, DiLiegro showcases physicality and menace. His performance channels the raw, animalistic traits of the character. This creates a terrifying opponent for Naru.
Why Earth? Hunting for Sport
This particular Predator chose the Northern Great Plains in 1719 for sport and exploration. Lore suggests he's eager to hunt and explore Earth’s wildlife. To him, "curiosity" means hunting and increasing his trophy collection. He's after formidable creatures in the Great Plains. Unfortunately, humans belong to this "deadly prey" category, especially those fighting back.
Characters of "Prey": Naru, the Central Figure
"Prey" focuses on a small but impactful cast, featuring Naru as its heart.
Naru: The Comanche Hunter Who Defies Odds
Amber Midthunder shines as Naru. She embodies strength, vulnerability, and determination. Naru is not merely an action hero; she offers a complex character with flaws and aspirations. As a young Comanche healer, she wishes to prove herself as a hunter, challenging her tribe's traditional gender roles. Midthunder's performance receives universal acclaim. She transforms Naru into a relatable action heroine.
Billy Sole Connection: A Nod to the Past
A connection to the original "Predator" exists for fans. Remember Billy Sole from the 1987 film? A fan theory suggests Taabe, Naru's brother, may represent a spiritual ancestor or reincarnation of Billy Sole. Both characters share a bond with nature and spiritual awareness. This implicit connection adds depth, suggesting a cyclical aspect to Predator hunts and those resisting them.
Is "Prey" Worth Watching? A Strong "Yes!"
The critical question arises: should you watch "Prey?" Critics and viewers widely agree, responding with a strong "YES!" Whether you love the "Predator" series, enjoy action movies, or seek an engaging film, "Prey" meets expectations.
General Consensus: A Must-See Film
The general agreement deems "Prey" not merely good but excellent. It ranks among the best of the franchise, often compared favorably to the 1987 classic. Critics commend "Prey" for strong character development and pulsating action. Its fresh take on the Predator narrative stands out among familiar themes.
The historical setting adds cultural richness alongside Comanche representation. The primal nature of the Feral Predator offers a new layer that makes the film resonate beyond mere "alien hunts humans."
Strengths: Characters and Action
"Prey" shines in key aspects. Naru's compelling journey resonates emotionally. Viewers genuinely care about her fate and her quest for validation. Next, the action features brutal choreography and intensity. Predator encounters create suspense and terror. Finally, the 1719 backdrop significantly contributes to the film’s identity.
Comparison to the Original: A Classic Parallel
"Prey" frequently receives favorable comparisons to its predecessor. Fans and critics uphold it as equal to or superior to Arnold Schwarzenegger's classic. Such an achievement highlights "Prey’s" effectiveness in capturing the original's spirit while carving its unique identity.
Sequel and Future Films: More Predator Ahead!
The success of "Prey" sparks interest in more Predator projects. Exciting news is on the way.
"Prey 2" Confirmed: The Hunt Continues
Fans rejoice! "Prey 2" is officially in development. It took longer than expected, but February 2024 confirmed this sequel. Details remain limited, raising questions about Amber Midthunder's return as Naru or possible new hunters appearing. Anticipation grows.
"Badlands": A Standalone Film
But there’s more! Besides "Prey 2," a standalone project titled "Badlands" is in development. Remarkably, this film aims for release before "Prey 2." Filming begins in July 2024. Dan Trachtenberg returns as director, ensuring quality and coherence in the Predator franchise.
Production Details: Lean Like the Feral Predator
Although "Prey" delivers blockbuster thrills, it's low-budget entertainment. This proves filmmakers can create gripping narratives without large resources.
Low-Budget Thriller: A Reminder
"Prey" often receives classification as a low-budget thriller compared to Hollywood marvels boasting immense budgets. This resource constraint seems to inspire creativity instead of hindering it. The focus on practical effects and stunning landscapes reflects that compelling storytelling outweighs financial incentives.
Filming Location: The Great Plains
A brief mentions South Africa as a filming site for "Prey." However, that's confusion with a 2007 film of the same name. The 2022 film mostly shot in Canada, particularly Alberta, to mirror the Northern Great Plains' landscapes effectively. These settings enrich the film's historical context and the Predator's hunt.
"Prey" (2017) Game: Another Perspective
Let's take a quick
Let’s detour to the 2017 video game "Prey." This "Prey" rebooted a previous franchise. It is a science fiction sim from Arkane Studios. Confusingly, both "Prey" (2022) and "Prey" (2017) exist, but they are not related. The movie "Prey" excelled. The game "Prey," while acclaimed, struggled commercially.
Marketing Failure: Lost in the Shuffle
Despite receiving critical acclaim, the "Prey" game flopped commercially. One primary reason was its marketing failure. The campaign for "Prey" confused people. It failed to clearly explain what the game offered. Many potential players were unaware the game existed.
Commercial Flop, Critical Darling: A Case of Underrated Genius?
Even though it underperformed commercially, "Prey" (2017) earned acclaim from critics. Reviewers praised its immersive gameplay and world-building. The narrative provoked thought. It stands as a rare reboot exceeding its original. Sadly, this success did not lead to sales, making it tragic.
Cancellation of "Prey 2" (Game): A Sequel That Never Was
The commercial disappointment of the first game led to the cancellation of "Prey 2" in 2014. Bethesda, the publisher, stated that the sequel did not meet their quality standards. They saw no path to commercial success. This cancellation disappointed fans who wanted more.
Violence and Gore: "Prey" Earns Its R-Rating
"Prey" is a Predator movie. Therefore, it is not suitable for families. The film earns its R-rating for strong, bloody violence.
R-Rated for Strong Bloody Violence: Not for the Faint of Heart
"Prey" holds an R-rating for strong, bloody violence. This film is not for young children or squeamish viewers. The Predator kills in brutal and gruesome ways. If you dislike graphic content, be ready to look away.
Content for Parents: Know Before You Go (or Let Your Kids Go)
For parents letting teens watch "Prey," be aware of its content. The film shows strong violence throughout. Characters die in bloody ways, including impalement, arrows to the eyes, and decapitation. There are also scenes of animal attacks, including a tiger mauling. This intense violence is not suitable for younger viewers.
Other Predator Movies: The Full Hunting Season Lineup
For fans wanting more from the Predator universe, here’s a list of other Predator movies in order:
- Predator (1987)
- Predator 2 (1990)
- AVP: Alien vs. Predator (2004)
- Aliens vs Predator: Requiem (2007)
- Predators (2010)
- The Predator (2018)
Now we can add "Prey" (2022) to this list. Even though it was a streaming release, it stands as a worthy addition to the Predator canon.
Actors in the Predator Franchise: From Arnold to... Arnold (Maybe?)
The Predator franchise has featured notable actors over the years, especially Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sonny Landham.
Arnold Schwarzenegger: The Original Predator Hunter
Arnold Schwarzenegger remains linked to the franchise due to his role as Dutch in the 1987 film. Rumors persist about his possible return. Buzz suggests he might be involved in "Predator 6: Badlands." Yet, currently, there are no official plans for his involvement.
Sonny Landham: Billy Sole – A Tracker of Legend
Sonny Landham played Billy Sole, the Native American tracker in "Predator." Billy Sole is a beloved character for his stoicism and connections to nature. His memorable line is, "I ain't got time to bleed." There’s a thematic link between Billy Sole and Taabe in "Prey," solidifying his place in lore.
"Prey" revitalized the Predator franchise in unexpected ways. It shows how a strong story and compelling characters can change perceptions. If you have not seen "Prey," watch it now. You may find yourself rooting for a Comanche hunter against an alien foe. Perhaps "Prey 2" will follow this success. The hunt appears far from over.
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