About the film (courtesy of 20th Century Studios):
The anthology story follows three of the fiercest warriors in human history: a Viking raider guiding her young son on a bloody quest for revenge, a ninja in feudal Japan who turns against his Samurai brother in a brutal battle for succession, and a WWII pilot who takes to the sky to investigate an otherworldly threat to the Allied cause. But while all these warriors are killers in their own right, they are merely prey for their new opponent – the ultimate killer of killers.
Predator: Killer of Killers is poised to unleash a fresh wave of terror and excitement upon the long-standing Predator franchise. The animated anthology film promises to deliver the brutal, unflinching action fans have come to expect, while exploring new historical battlegrounds for the iconic alien hunter. Directed by Dan Trachtenberg, known for his masterful work on Prey (2022), alongside Micho Robert Rutare, this R-rated entry is generating considerable buzz for its ambitious premise and stylized approach.
One of the most compelling aspects of Predator: Killer of Killers is its unique episodic structure, transporting the hunt across vastly different eras. The film (which could have easily been three half-hour episodes, especially given that it’s airing on the small screen) will delve into three distinct narratives, each featuring formidable human warriors facing off against the ultimate extraterrestrial predator. Viewers can look forward to a Viking raider guiding her son on a quest for vengeance, a ninja in feudal Japan turning against his Samurai brother, and a World War II pilot investigating an otherworldly threat in the skies. This anthology format is a brilliant move, allowing for diverse storytelling and showcasing the Predator’s adaptability across various historical backdrops. It’s an opportunity to see how different fighting styles and tactical approaches fare against a technologically superior adversary.
The decision to embrace animation for Predator: Killer of Killers opens up a world of creative possibilities. Animation allows for sequences that might be too complex or costly to achieve in live-action, promising an elevated level of carnage and dynamic action. The R-rating further assures audiences that the film will not shy away from the franchise’s signature strong bloody violence, gore, and language, delivering the raw intensity that defines the Predator experience. The visual style, as hinted in trailers, appears to be a perfect fit for the brutal nature of the hunts, allowing for exaggerated yet impactful depictions of the clashes.
While a traditional acting critique is difficult for an animated feature prior to release, the voice cast, including talents like Lindsay LaVanchy, Louis Ozawa, Rick Gonzalez, and the legendary Michael Biehn, suggests a commitment to strong performances. Their voices will be crucial in bringing these fierce historical figures to life, conveying their determination, fear, and resolve as they confront an unseen and unstoppable force. The success of an anthology often hinges on the strength of its individual stories and the compelling nature of its characters, and the chosen settings provide fertile ground for rich, character-driven narratives, even if brief.
Ultimately, Predator: Killer of Killers stands as an exciting evolution for the franchise. It’s a bold step that promises to expand the lore in intriguing ways, offering fresh perspectives on the classic hunter-and-prey dynamic. For those who appreciate compelling plots, strong character work, and high-octane entertainment, this animated installment is shaping up to be a must-watch event. It’s set to deliver the brutal, thrilling encounters that fans crave, proving that the hunt is far from over.
Watch Predator: Killer of Killers starting June 6th exclusively on Hulu and With Hulu on Disney+.
