Predators - Thoughts

When I first heard that a Predator movie was in the making, I knew it was a must watch; irrespective of media opinion. The first Predator movie was released way back in 1987, starring Schwarzenegger in the lead. A sequel with Danny Glover was released in 1990. The Predator character made a return in the 2004/2007 Alien versus Predator movies. Though most of the above mentioned movies were more or less commercially successful, hardcore fans of the first movie didn’t like the evolution of the Predator franchise. In an attempt to set things right, a Predators movie was announced in April 2009. The intent was that the movie would be set directly after the events of the first Predator movie, altogether ignoring all the subsequent sequels. This time a group of warriors, specialized in their individual combat styles from various geographies are brought together, and then hunted by a clan of Predators.


An action filled 107 minutes later, I was left feeling sufficiently entertained and satisfied. Right from the very opening sequences you will notice that the jungle setting of the movie is beautiful. The plantation is thick, green and lush. The overall scenic splendor of the movie is worth mention. One of the most gripping and awe inspiring scenes is about 25 minutes into the movie when the unlikely group reach the edge of the ravine and get a full view of the horizon for the first time. Besides picturesque value, that specific scene had an immense impact on the plot. The mood and feel of Predators reminded me of the original Predator from 1987, and the more recent The Condemned movie from 2007. (The Condemned had a similar bunch of convicts of varied origin pit against each other in a battle to death on a remote island). While some parts of the narrative process and dialog were predictable, it wasn’t to the point of being laughable. The action elements of the movie were gripping and realistic; violence and gore were present throughout. There was a constant thrill element, with numerous surprises at every turn. The plot leaves very little room for anything new, and traverses in the now stereotype ‘eliminate the characters, one at a time’ formula. For Predator franchise fans and sci-fi enthusiasts, this movie will be entertaining. The same goes for action lovers. Character development is limited, though present. Predators is not suitable for children and those expecting deep intricate plots.

Adrien Brody plays Royce, the possibly ex-special forces, American mercenary, who stereotypically becomes the brains and unofficial leader of the group. His performance was very good; not only was he very convincing in the action role, but he portrayed the character elements of a mercenary with questionable human values very well. Alice Braga as Isabelle did a decent job; being the only female cast member, she managed to play with the boys, while still showing some emotion. Topher Grace of That 70’s Show (TV Serial) fame played Edwin, adding nominal comic relief to the otherwise action ensemble of characters. Mahershalalhashbaz Ali of The 4400 (TV Serial) fame played Mombasa, an elite African combatant. His role was limited but adequate. Oleg Taktarov as Nikolai came across as hardcore, yet a good man; a minimal yet successful representation.

I didn’t want to have to wait too much, so I checked this one out in the theatre. Video was sharp and the digital transfer was crisp and clear; this stood out at various points during the runtime of the movie. Colors were natural, and no obvious postproduction tones were noticeable. I’d expect the DVD transfer to be impeccable. Sound was good, and surround usage was ample; while nothing stood out, the action sequences and jungle ambience was perfect. Without too much analysis and dissecting, overall technical elements were very efficient and faultless.

My Recommendation: Watch It (An entertaining action sci-fi flick)