‘Predator: Killer of Killers’ Review: A Worthy and Bloody Addition to the Franchise
Prey writer/director Dan Trachtenberg heard our cries for more alternate history Predator films and delivered us something special in the new animated anthology film, Predator: Killer of Killers, streaming now on Hulu. Here, Trachtenberg and co-director Joshua Wassung tell the story of three warriors throughout history and how their paths unfortunately intersect with bloodthirsty Predators. It’s brutal, beautiful, and never afraid to get bloody, making it the perfect addition to the world of Predator.
The first story takes place in 841 with a Viking tribe on a quest for revenge under the leadership of Ursa, whose father was murdered years ago by Voran. But something else stalks the group as they get ever closer to Voran’s encampment. It’s the epitome of “what if a revenge movie became a gnarly creature feature?” And it’s a blast, while also delivering heart-wrenching emotional beats, which is a delicate balance Predator: Killer of Killers pulls off easily.
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That trend continues in the next segment, this time taking place in 1609 Japan as two brothers—one an outcast and the other next in line for the throne—collide after the death of their father. Think of a samurai revenge story, but then an alien appears that also wants to fight. Importantly, the script reveals to the audience that our characters are being watched, so while human combat unfolds, the audience is also aware of the tension building towards the Predator reveal.
Then, we end with a Predator appearing during World War II and getting embroiled in a dogfight over the ocean with a squadron of pilots. This segment is the most action-packed, and our lead character John Torres is motivated not by revenge but by sheer desire to live and prove himself. It’s a refreshing note to end on, subverting expectations established by the first two segments.
Don’t worry, there’s also a clever wraparound that expands into its own segment, but the reveal is part of the fun, right? Suffice it to say, all of these pieces come together to form a perfect example of a successful anthology, as Predator: Killer of Killers tells three interesting and surprisingly emotional stories united through a clever frame narrative. Each story is thoughtful and more than just an excuse to show different Predators and how their weapons tech evolves throughout the centuries. Humanity is put first, which results in shockingly deep characters for an anthology, let alone one in the world of Predator.
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In utilizing animation, Predator: Killer of Killers can get even weirder with it when it comes to the looks of Predators and their weapons, as well as the film’s numerous fight sequences. And The Third Floor, in their first animated film, delivers just that with action scenes that feel more epic and cinematic than the last. This isn’t just about hand-to-hand combat anymore, especially as we take to the skies in the third segment. The 3D animation captured via Unreal Engine gives the film a distinct look that makes each kill shine.
Predator: Killer of Killers isn’t an appetizer before Predator: Badlands, but a full meal that could tide over any franchise fan. Trachtenberg is a Predator maestro, conducting his disgusting symphony with creativity and glee. The world-building on display is the stuff lore nerds dream of, all while being gorgeously animated. This anthology further exemplifies the countless possibilities in this universe, and I can’t wait to see what Trachtenberg concocts next.
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Predator: Killer of Killers
Categorized:Reviews
