The “Predator” franchise has an interesting place in film history. The first film starring Arnold Schwarzenegger is cemented in pop culture history by the film’s memorable dialogue and the title creature itself, the Predator. After the first film, the numerous sequels fail to recreate the spark of the first film. It’s safe to say that the recent installment has revived the franchise, seemingly overnight. 

“Prey” is the fifth predator film in the franchise and is set before the first four films, making it a prequel. It stars Amber Midthunder as the main character, Naru. She is a woman of the Comanche Nation who dreams of becoming a hunter like her brother Taabe, played by Dakota Beavers. She is skilled and dedicated to becoming a better hunter. 

As she crosses paths with an extraterrestrial hunter in the form of the Predator, played by Dane DiLiegro, she makes it her mission to protect her tribe and way of life from the Predator. Along the way, she faces vicious animals, French fur traders and natural elements like quicksand and weather.

Set in North America during the early 1700s, the setting and characters provide a refreshing look at humans trying to survive against the Predator. Without the use of modern technology and weapons, the odds are seemingly against Naru and the other warriors of her village. 

However, technological conflict is what provides the thrilling moments of the film. It doesn’t make it predictable like past “Predator installments.” This is also a testament to the fight choreography. With a combination of both practical and computer-generated effects, the Predator comes to life in all his terrifying glory. 

Aside from Naru being a great character, and the audience’s ability to relate and root for her while witnessing her development, the Predator is also a standout character. Without dialogue or a clearly explained motive, the film does a good job at letting the Predator have some spotlight and see solo moments of the creature. This similar struggle of these young warriors in trying to prove themselves is shown between the characters trying to prove themselves and earn their respect in the hunt. 

“Prey” is a science fiction, action thriller that is tons of fun for the viewer. It takes the main character on a journey to prove herself and succeeds in a glorious fashion. 

The Predator is known as one of the deadliest aliens in pop culture and has a whole culture around hunting. In “Prey”, The Predator has met his match and the film shows that the hunter can easily become the hunted.