'Predator: Killer of Killers'
In Predator: Killer of Killers, a Viking warrior, a Japanese ninja, and a Hispanic World War II fighter pilot find themselves trapped in a deadly dance with a relentless alien hunter. Directed by Dan Trachtenberg, the animated spectacle premieres exclusively on Hulu, breathing new life into the Predator franchise. This venture serves as a bridge between Trachtenberg’s hit Prey and the highly anticipated Predator: Badlands, which will be released theatrically in November.
The Bottom Line
A thrilling dive into the animated Predator-Verse.
Trachtenberg’s fresh take unfolds as an anthology, crafted into three captivating segments that culminate in a finale filled with unexpected twists. This narrative approach pays tribute to the versatility of the Predator franchise, highlighting the alien hunters’ terrifying abilities across diverse eras. Spanning the first, 17th, and 20th centuries, the segments illustrate that these interstellar hunters can unleash havoc at any point in time, leaving room for potential future crossovers Predator vs. the Karate Kid might just be on the horizon.
The film features three distinct and intense periods. The first segment, The Shield, introduces a middle-aged female Viking warrior, mocked as a “Viking washerwoman,” who embarks on a brutal quest for revenge against those who wronged her. Her pursuit is interrupted by the arrival of a Predator, leading to a harrowing encounter that costs her son’s life.
In The Sword, set in feudal Japan, two brothers, united by the death of their father, temporarily set aside their rivalry to face a looming Predator threat. Then, in The Bullet, set in 1941, a young pilot discovers that an alien craft is stalking his squadron. Despite his warnings, the crew remains unaware of the grave danger, leading to a dramatic mid-air confrontation where the pilot channels the spirit of action heroes like Tom Cruise and Harrison Ford, delivering a defiant “Get off my plane!”
Though the plot may appear straightforward, screenwriter Micho Robert Rutare cleverly weaves these elements into a satisfying tapestry, elevating the film beyond its individual segments. The clever structure builds to a crescendo of action and creativity, with a few surprises that enhance the overall experience.
For fans of relentless action, Predator: Killer of Killers delivers in spades. With raw, animated violence, the film embraces its R rating, offering a visceral spectacle that caters to those craving chaos. The animation style, reminiscent of exaggerated video game visuals, might require some adjustment, but it complements the narrative.
The film features an impressive voice cast, including Micheal Biehn, who makes a triple appearance across iconic genre films such as Alien, Terminator, and Predator. Fans will also find cleverly placed Easter eggs referencing past installments, sparking conversations across social media.
Predator: Killer of Killers showcases the enduring allure and adaptability of the franchise. With vibrant animation and breathtaking storytelling, it captivates both long-time fans and newcomers, building excitement for what comes next in the Predator universe.
