A little-known prequel to one of cinema's biggest sci-fi franchises is being hailed by critics and fans as being as good as, if not better than, the original classic. This critically acclaimed film, Prey, is set to air on Film 4 tonight at 9pm, offering a perfect catch-up for fans before the new sequel hits cinemas.
A Surprise Critical Triumph
Released in 2022, Prey serves as a direct prequel to the Predator franchise that began in 1987 with Arnold Schwarzenegger. Directed by Dan Trachtenberg, the film is set in 1719 in the Northern Great Plains and follows a young Comanche hunter, Naru, played by Amber Midthunder. Naru is determined to prove herself as a capable warrior while striving to protect her tribe from two formidable threats: a group of dangerous French fur traders and a savage, technologically advanced alien predator.
The film became a surprise smash hit, achieving an incredible 94% score on Rotten Tomatoes. It also broke records by becoming the most-watched film in the United States on the streaming platforms Hulu and Disney Plus upon its release.
Groundbreaking Representation in Hollywood
Prey made cinematic history by becoming the first major Hollywood franchise film to feature an all-Native American cast. In another pioneering move, it is also the only movie to have a full Comanche language dub, with the original cast members reprising their roles for the audio track.
This commitment to authenticity was widely praised, with many viewers and critics highlighting it as a significant step forward for representation in blockbuster filmmaking.
Audience and Critical Acclaim
Fans of the sci-fi series have been effusive in their praise, with many believing the prequel has revitalised the franchise. One fan wrote on Rotten Tomatoes, "Prey lives up to high expectations, being the first movie in the Predator saga to come close to or even surpass the original. Amber Midthunder delivers one of the best performances of her career."
Another supporter echoed this sentiment, posting, "Easily the best film in the Predator franchise since the original, this prequel is brilliantly directed by 10 Cloverfield Lane filmmaker Dan Trachtenberg, with a home run of a star turn by Native American actor Amber Midthunder."
A third review celebrated the film's broad appeal, stating, "The Predator franchise has new life thanks to Prey. The film works on a multitude of levels as a perfect prequel, monster movie, sci-fi flick, a badass heroine story, and win for Native representation and portrayals."
With the ninth instalment, Predator: Badlands, now showing in cinemas, there has never been a better time to revisit this outstanding chapter. Tune in to Film 4 at 9pm tonight, Thursday 13 November, to see why Prey is considered a modern genre classic.
