‘Predator: Killer of Killers’ Review: Dan Trachtenberg’s Animated Anthology Puts an Inventive Spin on a Durable Franchise

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A Viking warrior, a Japanese ninja and a Hispanic World War II fighter pilot walk into a bar…

The new animated Predator movie, titled “Predator: Killer of Killers,” isn’t a setup for a bad joke, but rather an unexpected link in the chain for the franchise. Directed by Dan Trachtenberg, it has revitalized the series creatively. This film will premiere on Hulu domestically and functions as a delightful treat for fans, bridging the gap between the last movie in the series, 2022’s critically acclaimed Prey (also directed by Trachtenberg), and the upcoming Predator: Badlands, due to hit theaters in November.

This compilation features three chapters and an imaginative conclusion linking the tales together, showcasing the franchise’s adaptability. Similar to the video games, it portrays the alien hunters as equally terrifying in animated form. Moreover, its narrative leaps through time – from the early, 17th, and modern centuries – underscores that Predators can seamlessly fit into any period. The potential for cross-overs appears boundless; prepare yourself for “Predator vs. The Karate Kid.

The plotlines aren’t overly intricate. In the first, titled “The Shield,” an older female warrior, referred to as a Viking washerwoman by one of her foes, embarks on a quest for harsh retribution against those who harmed her. However, her mission is interrupted when a Predator shows up. This leads to a fierce battle, resulting in the death of her son during the confrontation.

In the era of feudal Japan, we find ourselves immersed in a tale titled “The Sword.” This story revolves around an intense rivalry between two siblings that escalates into a lethal confrontation following their father’s passing. However, when an ominous Predator enters the scene, their animosity is temporarily set aside as they unite to face this common enemy.

In the story “The Bullet,” dated 1941, a young airman realizes that the menacing spacecraft endangering his comrades is not the foe they believe it to be. He urges them, “Comrades, don’t engage with whatever that may be,” but his warning falls on deaf ears. With his plane sustaining damage, he miraculously fixes the wing mid-flight, reminiscent of an action hero like Tom Cruise. Later, he adopts a spirit similar to Harrison Ford when addressing one of the extraterrestrial beings, saying, “Leave my aircraft alone!

As I’ve been playing along, it’s seemed straightforward so far. Yet, screenwriter Micho Robert Rutare, collaborating with Trachtenberg, masterfully weaves everything together in a remarkably intelligent and fulfilling way. I can’t reveal the clever twist here, but trust me, it elevates this film beyond just the sum of its individual scenes.

Essentially, the movie “Predator: Killer of Killers” delivers uninterrupted excitement that hardcore fans eagerly anticipate. It’s important to note that no compromises have been made for its animated form; instead, it deserves its R rating due to abundant, brutal violence and gory scenes that should satisfy even the most voracious viewers. Initially, the animation might require some adjustment, given its over-the-top, video game-esque visuals. However, it effectively complements the content.

Michael Biehn lends his voice to this production, giving him a remarkable achievement in the action-packed world of cinema, having starred in Alien, Terminator, and Predator movies. Furthermore, there are numerous references to past films and sneak peeks into potential future sequels that should create a buzz on social media platforms.

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2025-06-05 18:25