🎬 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐲 (𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟐)

Prey (2022) – A Thrilling Return to Predator’s Roots

Prey (2022) is a gripping and intense prequel to Predator (1987), stripping the franchise back to its primal essence. Directed by Dan Trachtenberg (10 Cloverfield Lane), the film takes place in 1719 on the Great Plains of North America and follows Naru (Amber Midthunder), a young Comanche woman determined to prove herself as a hunter. Unlike the warriors in her tribe, who see her as incapable of taking on larger prey, Naru possesses sharp instincts and an unyielding will to survive. When she notices strange disturbances in the wilderness—animal carcasses skinned with surgical precision, tracks too large to belong to any known predator—she realizes something far more dangerous than a mountain lion or a bear is lurking nearby. As her people dismiss her concerns, she sets out alone to investigate, leading her into a deadly confrontation with an advanced alien hunter: an early version of the Predator.

One of Prey’s biggest strengths is its simplicity. Unlike some of the later Predator sequels that leaned too heavily on convoluted lore or excessive action, this film takes a back-to-basics approach. It’s a survival thriller at its core, pitting an intelligent but vulnerable protagonist against a seemingly unstoppable force. The Predator here is not as technologically advanced as the ones seen in later films but still vastly superior to the weapons of the time. This allows for a more balanced fight, as Naru must use her ingenuity, knowledge of the land, and guerrilla tactics to even the odds rather than relying on brute strength.

Amber Midthunder delivers a standout performance as Naru. She embodies a character who is strong not because of some inherent superhuman ability, but because of her adaptability, resourcefulness, and relentless determination. The film doesn’t rush her development—she starts off making mistakes, struggling against the elements and her tribe’s expectations, but learns from her experiences. By the time she faces the Predator in the climactic battle, she has earned her victory through intelligence and perseverance.

Visually, Prey is stunning. The vast landscapes of Alberta, Canada, double as the Great Plains, creating a breathtaking and immersive setting. The cinematography emphasizes the beauty and brutality of nature, reinforcing the themes of survival and the hunter-prey dynamic. The film’s action sequences are also expertly crafted, favoring tense, methodical encounters over mindless spectacle. Every confrontation feels brutal and grounded, making each kill hit harder. The Predator itself has a more primal and menacing design, with a bone-like mask and a slightly different arsenal from its future counterparts. This adds to the sense that this is an earlier version of the iconic creature, still developing its hunting methods.

Another standout aspect of Prey is its cultural authenticity. The film features an almost entirely Native American cast, and there is even a Comanche-language dub available, making it the first major Hollywood film to offer such an option. The filmmakers worked closely with Comanche consultants to ensure an accurate portrayal of the tribe’s way of life, from their hunting techniques to their social structure. This adds a layer of depth and realism that sets Prey apart from other historical action films.

Clocking in at a lean 99 minutes, Prey wastes no time with unnecessary subplots or exposition. Every scene serves a purpose, building tension and advancing Naru’s journey. The pacing is tight, ensuring that the film never drags, while still allowing room for quiet moments that enhance the atmosphere and character development.

Overall, Prey is a triumphant return to form for the Predator franchise. By stripping away the excess and focusing on a compelling protagonist, a gripping story, and well-executed action, it delivers one of the best films in the series. It’s a thrilling survival tale that respects the legacy of the original while carving out its own unique place in the franchise. Whether you’re a longtime Predator fan or new to the series, Prey is a must-watch. ⭐⭐⭐⭐½