Prey (2022) Review: A Fresh Perspective on the Predator Franchise

Directed by: Dan Trachtenberg
Starring: Amber Midthunder, Dakota Beavers, Dane DiLiegro
IMDb Rating: 7.2/10

Introduction

The Predator franchise has been a beloved part of sci-fi cinema since the release of the original film in 1987. Over the years, sequels and spin-offs have ranged from high-octane action to less memorable attempts at keeping the alien hunter relevant. Enter Prey (2022), a film that boldly reinvents the franchise by stripping it down to its primal essence while introducing a fresh perspective and setting. Directed by Dan Trachtenberg, known for 10 Cloverfield Lane, this prequel takes us back to the early 18th century and breathes new life into the story with a unique cultural lens and an emphasis on survival.

Plot Summary

Set in 1719 on the Northern Great Plains, Prey follows Naru (Amber Midthunder), a young Comanche woman determined to prove her worth as a hunter. Naru’s aspirations challenge the traditional gender roles of her tribe, where women are expected to gather and tend to domestic tasks. Her brother, Taabe (Dakota Beavers), is a skilled hunter and a source of both inspiration and rivalry for Naru.

When strange phenomena begin occurring in the wilderness—such as animal carcasses skinned to the bone—Naru suspects a powerful predator is lurking nearby. Her tribe dismisses her concerns, attributing the events to natural predators like mountain lions or bears. However, as Naru investigates, she encounters a being unlike anything she could have imagined: an advanced alien hunter equipped with futuristic weaponry.

The film builds tension as Naru’s intelligence and resourcefulness are put to the ultimate test. Armed only with her instincts, her knowledge of the land, and rudimentary weapons, Naru faces the Predator in a series of escalating confrontations. The result is a gripping tale of survival, resilience, and self-discovery.

Cultural Significance

One of the most striking aspects of Prey is its commitment to cultural authenticity. The film’s creators worked closely with Native American consultants to ensure an accurate portrayal of Comanche life in the 18th century. This level of attention to detail extends to the characters’ language, clothing, tools, and customs. For viewers seeking an even deeper cultural experience, the film offers a Comanche-language dub—a first for a major Hollywood production.

By centering the story on a Native American protagonist and her tribe, Prey provides a fresh perspective on the Predator franchise. This is not just another action movie; it’s a story deeply rooted in themes of identity, tradition, and empowerment. Naru’s journey reflects the broader struggles of her people while highlighting the universal human desire to prove oneself and protect one’s community.

Amber Midthunder’s Breakout Performance

At the heart of Prey is Amber Midthunder’s powerful performance as Naru. Her portrayal is both fierce and vulnerable, capturing the complexity of a young woman determined to defy expectations. Naru’s growth from an underestimated underdog to a formidable warrior is compelling and relatable, thanks to Midthunder’s nuanced acting.

Midthunder’s physicality is particularly noteworthy. She performs many of her own stunts, bringing authenticity to the action sequences. Her ability to convey emotions through subtle expressions and body language makes Naru a protagonist audiences can root for. Whether she’s strategizing against the Predator or navigating tensions within her tribe, Midthunder’s performance anchors the film.

The Predator: A New Take on an Iconic Villain

The Predator in Prey is both familiar and refreshed. While its advanced technology—such as cloaking devices and energy-based weapons—remains a hallmark of the character, this version of the Predator feels more primal and savage. Its design incorporates elements that suggest it is an earlier iteration of the species, aligning with the film’s prequel status.

The Predator’s motivations are also subtly different in Prey. It’s not simply hunting for sport but seems to be testing its skills against Earth’s apex predators. This creates a fascinating dynamic as Naru, a seemingly underestimated opponent, gradually becomes its most formidable challenger. The film’s decision to focus on strategy and intelligence rather than brute force makes the Predator’s encounters with Naru particularly engaging.

Visual and Technical Excellence

The cinematography in Prey is breathtaking. The sweeping vistas of the Great Plains provide a stunning backdrop, emphasizing the vastness of the wilderness and the isolation of the characters. The natural beauty of the setting contrasts sharply with the technological menace of the Predator, enhancing the film’s tension.

Director Dan Trachtenberg and cinematographer Jeff Cutter use visual storytelling to great effect. Close-ups of Naru observing her surroundings and wide shots of the Predator stalking its prey create a sense of foreboding. The film’s color palette shifts from the earthy tones of the Comanche camp to the eerie, otherworldly glow of the Predator’s technology, underscoring the clash between the natural and the alien.

The sound design and score further elevate the film. Composer Sarah Schachner combines traditional instrumentation with atmospheric soundscapes to create a haunting, immersive experience. The Predator’s chilling clicks and roars are juxtaposed with the natural sounds of the wilderness, heightening the suspense.

Themes of Resilience and Empowerment

At its core, Prey is a story about resilience and empowerment. Naru’s journey mirrors the broader struggles of marginalized individuals seeking recognition and respect. Her intelligence, resourcefulness, and determination are what ultimately allow her to triumph, not sheer physical strength. This subversion of traditional action tropes is refreshing and aligns with the film’s emphasis on character-driven storytelling.

The film also explores themes of identity and tradition. Naru’s struggle to prove herself as a hunter reflects a tension between individuality and communal expectations. By the end of the film, she not only earns her tribe’s respect but also redefines what it means to be a warrior.

Comparison to Previous Predator Films

While Prey shares DNA with earlier entries in the franchise, it distinguishes itself through its minimalist approach and unique setting. Unlike the bombastic action of Predator 2 or The Predator (2018), Prey emphasizes suspense and survival. This return to basics echoes the original Predator while adding a fresh cultural and historical perspective.

The film’s focus on a single protagonist facing overwhelming odds also recalls the first movie. However, Naru’s journey is more emotionally resonant, thanks to the film’s character-driven approach. Where Dutch (Arnold Schwarzenegger) relied on brute strength, Naru relies on wit and strategy, offering a more grounded and relatable take on the franchise’s central conflict.

Critical Reception and Legacy

Prey has been widely praised for its innovative approach and cultural authenticity. Critics have lauded Amber Midthunder’s performance, the film’s stunning visuals, and its ability to breathe new life into a decades-old franchise. It’s considered one of the best entries in the Predator series and a standout example of how to reinvent a beloved property.

The film’s success also underscores the importance of representation in mainstream cinema. By centering the story on a Native American protagonist and showcasing the Comanche language and culture, Prey breaks new ground and sets a precedent for future films.

Conclusion

Prey (2022) is more than just a prequel to the Predator franchise—it’s a reinvention that elevates the series to new heights. With its emphasis on character, cultural authenticity, and raw survival, the film offers a fresh and compelling take on the familiar story of humans versus aliens. Amber Midthunder’s standout performance, combined with Dan Trachtenberg’s skilled direction, ensures that Prey is both a thrilling action movie and a meaningful cinematic experience.

For fans of the Predator series, Prey is a must-watch that honors the franchise’s legacy while charting a bold new course. For newcomers, it’s an accessible and gripping introduction to one of sci-fi’s most iconic creatures. Either way, Prey is a film that demands to be seen.

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