Prey 4K 2022 2160p DSNP WEB-DL

The new sci-fi thriller "The Prey" is conceived as the first prequel to the cult "Predator" starring Arnold Schwarzenegger. "The Prey" is set some 300 years before the events of the original film. The main character, huntress Nara tries to protect her tribe from one of the first Predators. The franchise, once created by John McTiernan, has had its ups and downs: many directors have attempted to revive "Predator" and return it to its former popularity, but so far no one has succeeded in this case. Nevertheless, Dan Trachtenberg's approach seems to be the freshest and most unusual in comparison with the Predators of the decade.

Prey 4K Review
Not unlike the yautja themselves, the primary 'Predator' series has proven over now 35 years to be remarkably dexterous, and arguably more consistent than many other major franchises. The 1987 progenitor is a classic, and the first sequel surprisingly great despite an odd premise; 2010's 'Predators' is a dazzling thrill ride, and while 2018's 'The predator' is a bizarre sidestep (misstep?), I appreciate the daring to try something different. That's the key - "something different"; even as the core tenets of the films remain the same, each new entry carries some spark to set it apart. From the start I was excited to learn about 2022's 'Prey.' The premise alone is enticing, hearkening back to a history hinted at in 'Predator 2'; the casting of actors with indigenous heritage is deeply gratifying in and of itself, and the casting of a woman as the lead no less so; and from what I've seen previously of Amber Midthunder, I couldn't want to see her in a major starring role. Suffice to say that my expectations were very high long before I ever sat to watch - but I'm ever so pleased to say that as far as I'm concerned, 'Prey' more than lives up to the hype I'd built up in my mind.

There's still more. For one thing, I absolutely loved Dan Trachtenberg's last big outing and first feature film, '10 Cloverfield Lane,' and that he was attached to direct was another huge boost in this title's favor. My trust was not misplaced; Trachtenberg illustrates superb, practiced skills in orchestrating shots and scenes, guiding his cast, and generally overseeing the production. On that note, still another facet of 'Prey' to earn my admiration was the decision between Trachtenberg and his collaborators to produce both a version with dialogue in English, and a version that the cast themselves dubbed in Comanche. There are rich cultural histories predating the United States that are sadly neglected if not purposefully sequestered, and I cannot overstate how glad I am that the filmmakers behind 'Prey' made it possible to enjoy their movie in a way that's emphatically more authentic.

We're just getting started though. Just as 'Prey' is only Trachtenberg's second feature film, it's the first for Patrick Aison as writer, but I think he nailed it. Some classic themes present as groundwork for the feature, including tradition, family, and gender roles; the tendency toward discounting the potential of those who for any reason are deemed less capable, and proving oneself - all with some feminist undertones, to boot - and the encroachment of unwelcome invaders. From this foundation is crafted a story that definitely departs from past treatments of the 'Predator' universe, not least of all as it effectively serves as a prequel. More than that, the screenplay decisively focuses on determined, headstrong Naru (Midthunder), and her self-assigned trial, and in so doing becomes in no small part a film about survival in the wild, and of a Comanche woman learning her world is bigger than she thought it was. It just so happens that these wilds, and this world, include an extra hostile visitor; the yautja unquestionably stands out as a terrible force to be reckoned with, only its presence is slightly diminished - coming across truly as an intelligent hunter testing their skills, not just as a ruthless pursuer of trophies. The basic essence of the franchise is somewhat turned on its head, and that more than anything else is how 'Prey' stands out among its siblings.

But for all this - how is it? Well, for my part, I think Trachtenberg's picture stands at least as tall as those of his predecessors. The narrative and scene writing are wonderfully compelling, invigorating, satisfying, and rewarding; there's some fantastic cleverness sprinkled throughout that really makes an impression. The action violence is finely executed, visceral, and thrilling - frankly even more so for Naru's less advanced weapons, and more classical warrior tactics - and the blood and gore look great. The cast turn in outstanding performances; above all, as I assumed she would, Midthunder gives a solid display of range, nuance, poise, and physicality that marks her as an actress deserving of much more to come her way. I'm over the moon with how good she is! The production design and art direction are phenomenal; down to every last detail, the attentive care poured into 'Prey' is terrific. Costume design and hair and makeup work especially stand out, but the attention to set design, props, and weapons are no less superb. Jeff Cutter's cinematography, Angela M. Catanzaro and Claudia Castello's editing, and even fundamental shot composition and use of light are stupendous. While Sarah Schachner's score tends to take a backseat, it lends fabulous tense atmosphere to what is already an exhilarating viewing experience, and the most dynamic, dramatic themes are altogether gripping.

There's so much to take in at any one time that these 99 minutes speed by at what seems a relentless pace, even though everything progresses naturally and fluidly. It's notable that the yautja has a bit of a different look to it compared to previous 'Predator' titles. Just as much to the point, while 'Prey' is set well over 200 years before even the 1987 progenitor, this antagonist demonstrates different behavior and tactics, and uses what rather seems to be more advanced equipment. I suppose these variations could be a sticking point for some viewers, but I interpret these as an indication that the yautja we meet here is perhaps of a different race compared to those we've met before. All the effects look incredible, some of the best I've seen in recent memory, and that includes even the CGI, and the animated wildlife. For the sheer abundance one could feasibly argue that 'Prey' is a little over the top - but in fairness, this is no worse a critique than one could lay at the feet of most any sci-fi action blockbuster. A couple inclusions are maybe too on the nose as nods to 'Predator' flicks past, but all things considered, I'd say this is at most a minor distraction.

As much as I enjoy the first two 'Predator' films, heretofore I've been inclined to say 2010's 'Predators' was my favorite, simply on account of its breathtaking vitality. I firmly maintain that 'Prey' matches 'Predators' toe to toe, meaning that in one way or another it meets or exceeds earlier incarnations. Writing, direction, acting, and all contributions of crew behind the scenes are truly top-notch, bearing resounding intelligence that truly makes it feel like more than just another blockbuster. I understand and respect that others may have another opinion; I will say, apart from 2018's 'The predator,' the differences between entries in the series in terms of value are a matter of degrees, not whole numbers. Regardless, I think it's all but undeniable that this is marvelously well made, and a stunning addition to a beloved sci-fi series. 'Prey' is joyfully entertaining through and through, and well worth watching if you have the slightest opportunity.