Set in 1719 on the Great Plains, the film introduces Naru (Amber Midthunder). Naru is highly determined and carries great skills as an upcoming hunter and warrior. With only one more challenge required to earn her new title and gain respect from others around her, Naru is passionate and eager to prove her worth by conducting the ultimate hunt.
When a fellow member of the tribe is taken, Naru, along with her older brother Taabe (Dakota Beavers) and a small group, investigate an unknown predator. Naturally, it’s not long until Naru discovers that what they are hunting is entirely different to what they expected. Perhaps this unknown creature has even come from above the clouds. Now Naru must use her wits and skills to take on the ultimate killer, who is equipped with futuristic weaponry far more advanced than anything Naru has access to.
For those who are unaware, Prey is the fifth Predator film, and it’s also a prequel going back to what I assume could be the first hunt on Earth. It’s a great concept for an origin story, and fans of the franchise will not be disappointed to see a whole new time period and atmosphere. I also like the concept that our leading characters (including Naru) are not equipped with big guns in this time and place. Here, our leads are forced to use their skills and minds to hunt.
I quite enjoyed the lead character Naru. I enjoyed seeing a new kind of character within the predator franchise, and the actress left a lasting impression. When it comes to the action and combat side of things, it’s very enjoyable and believable. The character can hold her own yet still has a few things to learn along the way. She is highly determined, but some lines of dialogue feel a little too overconfident and over the top.
Visually, I adored this film. I loved the look of it right from the first scene, and there’s a wondrous world on display. Everything is highly enjoyable, including moments that occur at night. Many shots feel inspired by third-person video games due to the use of over-the-shoulder shots as the leads wander around in the stunning scenery. The audio track is also praise-worthy. Hearing Naru’s axe thrown at various trees in the opening scene impressed me as I continued to hear various deep audio details from start to finish. At times, the film’s musical score is also rather impacting and fitting.
Overall, I’m excited to say Prey is a stunning and entertaining instalment to the Predator series. It takes fans on a whole new story in a different time, place and style. With only a few minor issues holding it back, the film remains highly fresh, with a few fun nods to the previous instalments. The film delivers wonderful visuals, such as the various locations featured throughout. The violence and gore level also won’t disappoint movie lovers. Prey delivers what I feel a Predator instalment should be, offering new creative ideas and freshness which we’ve yet to experience.
7.7/10
11th August 2022
Written by Peter Walkden
WALKDEN ENTERTAINMENT
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