Synopsis:
As a new installment of the Predator universe, Prey is an exciting science fiction action-thriller film that captures the audience’s attention. It is set in the 18th century, even before the first movie that released in 1987, making the movie a prequel that goes back to its roots. The story is about a young Comanche woman named Naru who is up against one of the most dangerous alien killers, known to humanity, where she survives against all odds.
The setting begins in 1719’s Northern Great Plains. Naru is quite a skilled hunter, aspiring to be a tracker or a scout one day. Although capable, Naru doesn’t get the respect she deserves as a woman warrior suffering discrimination by male homophobic misogynist opposers. To earn the respect she is due, she takes on the challenge of hunting a dangerous alien predator. After accomplishing this feat, she plans to claim her much-coveted tribal status.
Whilst pursuing deer and honing her tomahawk skills, Naru encounters strange signs in the wilderness: bizarre animal activities, oversized tracks, and odd markings on prey skeletons. Her tribe considers these signs to be the handiwork of a predator such as a lion or bear, Naru does not share this conjecture. She believes something far more sinister is out there.
The modern world’s would call this a predator, a being that comes to earth for the exquisite challenge of hunting trophy worthy wildlife. In fact, this set less executive than the predators counterpart, but is just as vicious. Their methodology is to systematically advance their attempts by going after more and more dangerous animals, including wolves, bears, and eventually, humans.
As inhuman warriors and animals are fiercely slain one after the other, Naru comes to the realization that with her sharpened instincts along with strategic guerilla tactics, her understanding of the land could provide her an advantage in the fight. With careful consideration of the alien’s means of attack, she realizes there’s a repeating calculated non aggressive way the creature follows to circumvent direct confrontation with a bluntly labeled threat. It is because of this knowledge that Naru is able to set a plan for survival.
Naru’s journey escalates when she witnesses a Predator destroy a group of French fur trappers, the same ones who had captured her earlier. To defend herself, she devises counter-strategies against the alien’s weapons, including its stealth technology, thermal vision, and armament. In a final duel, Naru faces the Predator tomahawk in hand, along with her cunning, her knowledge of the wilderness, and primal instincts.
Amidst the massifs, employing subversive eludications, cunning deception, and meticulously orchestrated engagements, Naru defeats the alien creature, showcasing unparalleled valor and ingenuity, thereby gaining the respect of her kin. Triumphally, the film ends with her retrieving the head of the Predator, brandishing an alien weapon signifying her victory and new beginnings for her tribe.
Cast & Crew:
Amber Midthunder as Naru – Midthunder portrays the role of Naru in a jaw dropping, breakout performance dominated by both physical and emotional intensity. Her “don’t mess with me” attitude, alongside fearsome warrior body language highlights the evolution of the film, portraying the arboreal clash survivor as deeply nuanced.
Dakota Beavers as Taabe – Midthunder’s Taabe character is a skilled warrior and Naru’s older brother who turns into a supportive older sibling. His performance adds emotional weight to the brother-sister interaction and brings more understanding as he goes from doubting Naru’s dreams to accepting her undeniable strength.
Dane DiLiegro as the Predator – Having transitioned from playing basketball professionally, suit actor DiLiegro demonstrates Predator’s sophisticated hunting prowess through physicality and vicious fighting.
Michelle Thrush as Aruka – Naru’s mother reflects the tribal expectations of women and motherhood in a woman of culture.
Stormee Kipp, Julian Black Antelope, and others – Supporting members of Comanche tribe along with the French trappers serve as the background and foundation for the ensemble, furthering the historical accuracy and the setting of the film.
Prey is directed by Dan Trachtenberg (most known for 10 Cloverfield Lane), who has a distinct approach in integrating science fiction horror into historically grounded narrative. The breathtaking imagery of the untamed American frontier as well as the ensuing carnage is stunningly captured by Jeff Cutter. In contrast, the score performed by Sarah Schachner using tribal instruments and eerie sci-fi elements blends tension, and atmosphere with the film’s skeletal focus on Indigenous people’s culture.
Perhaps most remarkable on the production are the efforts made to retain fidelity. These include working with Comanche historians and cultural advisors for Comanche language, dress, and customs, and the dubbing done in Comanche language which marks a milestone for Indigenous peoples in mainstream cinema.
IMDb Ratings and Critical Responses:
Prey has a score of 7.1/10 on IMDb, which indicates that it is well received by both audiences and critics alike. Many fans and critics deemed it the best addition to the Predator franchise since the original film in 1987 with Arnold Schwarzenegger. The film was recognized for its straightforward plot, engaging main character, and distinct telling of history.
Many critics commended Amber Midthunder’s portrayal and deemed her as the face of the franchise moving forward. Midthunder’s performance was attributed to the success of the film due to her physical and emotional portrayal. The Predator was also praised for its fresh interpretation that re-designed the character’s look to midieval while still maintaining the classic feel, enhancing its identity as a primeval hunter instead of a robotic future soldier.
Reviewers noted the film’s unique ability to capture building tension while telling an action-packed story without excessive violence and far-fetched narratives which characterized some of the more recent films in the franchise. The choice to place the character centuries earlier from current times allowed the series to explore new horizons, enabling the horror of being hunted by a Predator to be experienced in a raw survivalist setting.
A few critiques highlighted the film’s formulaic elements or simplistic character development. Regardless, these were minor in comparison to the reception it garnered for its deft emotional pay-off, strong visual storytelling, and minimalist direction.
The decision to have Prey released on streaming services instead of in cinemas sparked some controversy. Many felt that the film’s cinematic quality warranted a theatrical release. Nonetheless, it became one of the most-watched premieres on Hulu and sparked intense discussion on social media and among genre fans.
Conclusion:
By stripping away complications and placing emphasis on a riveting central character, a formidable atmosphere, and an iconic monster—albeit set in a fresh context—the film succeeds spectacularly. Its affectionate portrayal of Indigenous culture, female empowerment, and direction add significance to the Predator franchise, demonstrating how legacy franchises can evolve in meaningful ways.
In the end, Prey portrays survival, carving one’s identity, and defiance of social norms. As Naru undergoes her transformative journey, the film reignites a cherished sci-fi movie franchise while simultaneously presenting an inspiring narrative of courage, relentless determination, and the fight for belonging.
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