Prey

Prey, released in 2022, is a captivating addition to the Predator franchise. Directed by Dan Trachtenberg, this film serves as a prequel set in the year 1719 against the backdrop of the Northern Great Plains. The screenplay is crafted by Patrick Aison, and it features a talented cast including Amber Midthunder, Dakota Beavers, and Dane DiLiegro.

The plot centers around Naru, a young Comanche woman portrayed by Amber Midthunder, who seeks to prove her worth as a hunter. The film highlights her struggle to protect her tribe from a ruthless, humanoid alien predator that hunts for sport, as well as from French fur traders threatening their way of life through the destruction of local buffalo herds. This dual threat propels Naru into a fierce battle for survival, showcasing her bravery and resourcefulness.

Development for Prey began during the production of the previous Predator film in 2018. Producer John Davis was intrigued by a concept presented by Trachtenberg and Aison, which had been in the works since 2016. The film underwent several title changes before being officially named Prey in late 2020. Filming took place around Calgary, Alberta, during the summer of 2021. Notably, parts of the film are shot in the Comanche language, making it the first feature film to have a complete Comanche language dub.

The film premiered at the San Diego Comic-Con on 21 July 2022 and was later released through Hulu and Disney+ on 5 August 2022. Critics have praised the film for its engaging narrative and strong character development, labeling it as a refreshing take within the franchise.

In the story, Naru's journey begins with her dreams of becoming a skilled hunter like her brother, Taabe. While on a deer hunt, she notices strange lights in the sky, which she initially believes signify her readiness to hunt. However, these lights herald the arrival of the alien predator. The tension escalates when Naru encounters various dangers, including a fierce grizzly bear, and ultimately finds herself in a deadly confrontation with the hunter.

As the plot unfolds, Naru's intelligence and ingenuity are put to the test. After enduring several traumatic events, including the loss of her brother, she learns to use a flintlock pistol and devises a clever plan to outsmart the predator. The film culminates in an intense showdown where Naru cleverly uses her surroundings to defeat the alien, proving her strength and skill. She returns to her village as a hero, earning the title of War Chief.

Prey received high acclaim from audiences and critics alike, with a 94% positive rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a score of 71 on Metacritic. The film is celebrated for its strong central character and the authentic representation of Native American culture. The narrative's focus on gender roles and empowerment has also been highlighted as a significant aspect of its storytelling.

Looking ahead, discussions for potential sequels are underway, with Trachtenberg expressing interest in continuing the story of Naru and exploring new directions for the franchise. With its fresh perspective and gripping action, Prey stands as a remarkable chapter in the Predator saga.