“Prey (2022): A Predator Film That Roars with Innovation and Respect
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Prey (2022): A Predator Film That Roars with Innovation and Respect
"Prey," the 2022 installment in the long-running "Predator" franchise, arrives not with a whimper but a resounding war cry. Directed by Dan Trachtenberg ("10 Cloverfield Lane") and written by Patrick Aison, the film boldly transports the iconic extraterrestrial hunter to the Great Plains of North America in 1719, pitting it against a young Comanche woman named Naru, played with fierce determination by Amber Midthunder. This isn’t just a simple monster movie; it’s a gripping survival story, a celebration of Indigenous culture, and a thrilling reinvention of a beloved sci-fi horror concept.
A Fresh and Ferocious Setting
The choice of setting is perhaps "Prey’s" most inspired decision. By moving away from the familiar jungles and urban landscapes of previous "Predator" films, Trachtenberg and Aison inject a vital dose of freshness into the formula. The vast, untamed wilderness of the early 18th-century Great Plains becomes a character in itself, offering both breathtaking beauty and unforgiving danger.
The film immerses us in the world of the Comanche people, depicting their intricate social structures, hunting traditions, and deep connection to the land. The attention to detail is remarkable, from the authentic costumes and weaponry to the use of the Comanche language (the film is available in a fully dubbed Comanche version, a groundbreaking achievement in mainstream cinema). This commitment to cultural accuracy elevates "Prey" beyond a mere action spectacle, transforming it into a respectful and engaging portrayal of a Native American community on the cusp of irreversible change.
The arrival of the Predator in this context is particularly impactful. It’s not just an alien hunter stalking human prey; it’s an invasive force disrupting the delicate balance of the ecosystem and threatening the very survival of the Comanche way of life. This thematic resonance adds depth and meaning to the action, making "Prey" a more thought-provoking and emotionally resonant film than its predecessors.
Naru: A Protagonist Worth Rooting For
At the heart of "Prey" is Naru, a young Comanche woman determined to prove herself as a hunter and warrior. Amber Midthunder delivers a star-making performance, imbuing Naru with a fierce intelligence, unwavering determination, and a vulnerability that makes her instantly relatable.
Naru is not a stereotypical action hero. She’s not superhumanly strong or effortlessly skilled. She’s a young woman who faces societal expectations and gender roles that limit her opportunities. She has to work harder, prove herself more, and overcome obstacles that her male counterparts don’t face.
Her journey is one of self-discovery and empowerment. As she tracks and confronts the Predator, she learns to trust her instincts, hone her skills, and embrace her unique strengths. She’s not just fighting for her own survival; she’s fighting for the survival of her people and the preservation of their way of life.
Midthunder’s performance is nuanced and compelling. She conveys Naru’s inner struggles and triumphs with remarkable subtlety, making her a character that audiences can truly connect with and root for. Naru is a worthy addition to the pantheon of iconic action heroines, and her presence in "Prey" is a major reason why the film resonates so strongly.
A Predator Evolved
The Predator itself is a formidable presence in "Prey," but it’s not simply a rehash of previous incarnations. This Predator is different, both in appearance and behavior. Its mask is more primitive, its weaponry less advanced, and its hunting tactics more brutal.
This Predator is a hunter in its purest form, a creature driven by instinct and a thirst for the ultimate challenge. It’s not interested in sport or trophies; it’s simply seeking worthy prey to test its skills against.
The film does a great job of slowly revealing the Predator’s capabilities, building suspense and anticipation as Naru gradually uncovers its secrets. The Predator’s invisibility cloak, thermal vision, and plasma caster are all present and accounted for, but they’re used in ways that feel fresh and innovative.
The Predator’s design is also noteworthy. It’s leaner and more agile than previous Predators, making it a more menacing and believable threat. Its movements are fluid and predatory, and its facial expressions are surprisingly expressive.
Action and Suspense Masterfully Crafted
"Prey" is a masterclass in action filmmaking. Trachtenberg and his team have crafted a series of thrilling and suspenseful sequences that are both visceral and intelligent. The action is not just mindless spectacle; it’s carefully choreographed and integrated into the narrative, serving to advance the plot and develop the characters.
The film makes excellent use of its natural setting, incorporating the environment into the action in creative and unexpected ways. The Predator uses the trees, rivers, and caves to its advantage, creating a sense of claustrophobia and vulnerability for its prey.
The fight scenes are brutal and realistic, showcasing the Predator’s superior strength and agility. But they’re also grounded in reality, reminding us that Naru is a human being facing an alien threat. She gets injured, she makes mistakes, and she has to rely on her wits and resourcefulness to survive.
The suspense in "Prey" is palpable. Trachtenberg expertly builds tension, using sound design, cinematography, and editing to create a sense of unease and dread. The Predator is often unseen, lurking in the shadows, its presence felt rather than seen. This ambiguity makes it all the more terrifying.
Themes of Tradition, Change, and Survival
Beyond its action and suspense, "Prey" explores deeper themes of tradition, change, and survival. The film examines the clash between the traditional ways of the Comanche people and the encroaching forces of European colonization.
Naru represents a new generation of Comanche, one that is willing to challenge tradition and embrace new ideas. She’s not content to simply follow in the footsteps of her elders; she wants to forge her own path and prove her worth on her own terms.
The arrival of the Predator symbolizes the disruptive forces of change that threaten the Comanche way of life. It’s an alien presence that disrupts the natural order and forces the Comanche to adapt and evolve in order to survive.
Ultimately, "Prey" is a story about resilience and the power of the human spirit. It’s about a young woman who defies expectations, overcomes adversity, and finds her place in the world. It’s about a community that faces unimaginable challenges and refuses to be defeated.
Minor Criticisms and Considerations
While "Prey" is a largely successful film, it’s not without its minor flaws. Some viewers may find the pacing to be a bit slow in the first act, as the film takes its time establishing the setting and characters. Others may find the CGI effects to be somewhat inconsistent, particularly in some of the creature designs.
Additionally, the film’s depiction of the French fur traders may be seen as somewhat stereotypical. While their presence is historically accurate, their portrayal as ruthless and greedy villains may feel a bit one-dimensional.
However, these criticisms are relatively minor and do not detract significantly from the overall quality of the film.
A Triumphant Addition to the Predator Lore
"Prey" is a triumph. It’s a film that respects the legacy of the "Predator" franchise while also forging its own unique identity. It’s a thrilling action movie, a suspenseful horror film, and a thought-provoking exploration of culture and identity.
Amber Midthunder delivers a star-making performance as Naru, a character who is both strong and vulnerable, intelligent and resourceful. The film’s setting in the 18th-century Great Plains is inspired, providing a fresh and visually stunning backdrop for the Predator’s hunt.
Dan Trachtenberg’s direction is masterful, creating a sense of tension and suspense that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The action sequences are expertly choreographed and visceral, showcasing the Predator’s brutal power.
"Prey" is not just a great "Predator" movie; it’s a great movie, period. It’s a film that deserves to be seen and celebrated, not just by fans of the franchise but by anyone who appreciates intelligent, exciting, and thought-provoking cinema. It’s a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of representation. It proves that even a long-running franchise can be revitalized with fresh ideas, talented filmmakers, and a commitment to authenticity. "Prey" is a roaring success, a killer of expectations, and a true predator in the cinematic landscape.
