John McTiernan’s Predator, released in 1987, stands as a cornerstone of the action-horror-sci-fi genre that flourished in the 1980s. The narrative follows an elite military team undertaking a rescue mission in a Central American jungle, only to fall prey to a lethal alien entity. This film is widely recognized as one of Arnold Schwarzenegger’s finest performances, setting the stage for an enduring franchise that includes seven sequels, a series of comic books, video games, and novels. Following the triumphant reception of Prey—a prequel featuring a young Comanche protagonist in 1719—20th Century Studios has recently announced the production of two additional Predator films.
Recently, I had the pleasure of introducing my nephew to Predator, and the experience was extraordinarily positive. Surprisingly, the film’s elements have remained remarkably effective even after 37 years. The expertly choreographed action sequences, the exceptional cast, and the iconic creature design by the late Stan Winston continue to resonate today. Yet, one particular aspect seemed somewhat dated during my rewatch.
Seamless Genre Blending and Expectation Subversion in Predator
From Typical ’80s Action to Gripping Horror
The initial segments of Predator resemble a typical “military squad on a perilous mission”thriller. Although it starts with some memorable moments and Arnold Schwarzenegger’s classic one-liners, first-time viewers might perceive it as yet another generic action flick. Besides the initial space scene—a post-production addition that offers a subtle hint of the film’s science fiction angle—nothing suggests the radical genre shift ahead. Yet, this is precisely where Predator excels.
This film’s seamless blending of genres is unparalleled in cinematic history. Unlike many hybrid films that struggle with tone, Predator integrates its elements with authenticity. Thanks to the brilliant screenplay by Jim and John Thomas, the film expertly navigates its diverse genres. The first act initiates as a straightforward action movie, evolving into a nail-biting horror experience as the Predator methodically eliminates team members, culminating in a legendary showdown between Schwarzenegger’s Dutch and the alien adversary.
Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Dutch: A Role of Depth and Vulnerability
An Unexpected Depth in Characterization
At first glance, Dutch seems akin to the archetypal tough warrior roles that characterized Arnold Schwarzenegger’s early career. He is physically imposing and quick-witted; however, a closer examination reveals a character imbued with greater intellect and vulnerability than his usual portrayals. Notably, this film marks the first time Schwarzenegger is part of a true ensemble cast, which enriches his character through shared camaraderie and relatability.
As the story progresses and Dutch comprehends the magnitude of the threat, a palpable sense of fear and vulnerability emerges in Schwarzenegger’s performance. In the latter half of the film, Dutch’s character showcases an unexpected dimension, as he faces a menace that cannot be subdued through sheer strength. Instead, he must rely on his wits to confront the alien predator, making his journey more compelling to viewers. The suspense surrounding Dutch’s fate heightens the film’s tension, leaving audiences guessing how he will ultimately overcome this formidable opponent.
A Stellar Ensemble of ’80s Action Icons
Memorable Characters with Significant Contributions
The chemistry among the ensemble cast is palpable from the moment Dutch reunites with his ally Dillon, jokingly greeting him with “Dillon, you son of a bitch.” While the characters may not be extensively developed, the strong performances all around create a memorable experience that resonates with audiences—a testament to the wealth of talent from the 1980s action genre. Each character, from Jesse Ventura’s unforgettable portrayal of the “sexual tyrannosaurus”Blain to the others, brings their own flair, contributing to the film’s dynamic energy.
A notable strength of Predator lies in the unpredictability of each character’s fate. As the plot unfolds, audiences witness genuine teamwork among the squad, steering clear of the typical horror clichés. This element of surprise heightens the film’s drama, as viewers remain on the edge of their seats, awaiting the next casualty.
Directorial Brilliance and Iconic Creature Design
Masterfully Crafted Action and Suspense
It is remarkable to consider that Predator is only John McTiernan’s second directorial effort, given the film’s confidence and meticulous craftsmanship. McTiernan’s ability to combine various cinematic elements—from expertly constructed action sequences to immersive sound design—demonstrates his skill. Upon rewatching, it becomes evident that his strength lies in building suspense. From the eerie gradual reveal of the Predator to the intense feeling of dread experienced by the characters in the dense jungle, McTiernan’s directorial finesse is evident throughout.
The film’s success can be attributed in large part to Stan Winston’s extraordinary creature design, which plays a pivotal role in its continued impact. The Predator itself is a horror icon, becoming increasingly terrifying as its full capabilities are unveiled. The towering presence of actor Kevin Peter Hall, standing at 7’2″ , amplifies the creature’s daunting threat, marking one of Schwarzenegger’s most formidable challenges. Unlike many films that rely on superficial world-building, every facet of the Predator’s lore—from its cloaking technology to its primal instinct for hunting—feels intricately crafted.
Dated Portrayal of the Female Character
Contrasting the Female Characters in Predator and Prey
While Predator remains an enduring classic nearly four decades later, it undeniably reflects the era of its creation. With its unapologetic action, hyper-masculine narrative, and occasionally cringe-worthy dialogue, several aspects of the film may not resonate well with contemporary audiences. Some viewers might see these elements as part of the film’s charm, viewing it as a nostalgic artifact from a bygone cinematic era.
However, revisiting the film after watching Prey highlights how poorly the portrayal of its sole female character, Anna, has aged. Anna is primarily relegated to the role of providing local lore about the Predator and has little agency during the action sequences. In contrast, the representation of Amber Midthunder’s character, Naru, in Prey, is far more empowered and complex. Naru’s character arc emphasizes resilience and resourcefulness in overcoming odds that seem insurmountable, making her presence significant to the film’s narrative. The divergence between Anna and Naru illustrates the evolving portrayal of women in action cinema, showcasing Prey as a landmark entry that honors the essence of the franchise while updating its approach to character development.
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