New images from Prey provide a closer look at the Predator’s updated design. The first Predator starring Arnold Schwarzenegger premiered back in 1987, and 35 years later, the franchise is still kicking. None of the sequels have been able to match the success of the original, and The Predator‘s poor critical response was thought to be the final nail in the franchise’s coffin. That of course turned out to not be the case, with Predator 5 officially being announced in November 2021.
While Predator 2, Predators, and The Predator all took place after the original film, Prey is taking a unique approach by being set 300 years before Dutch and his commandos are attacked in a Central American jungle. Despite four films showcasing the Yautja’s design, promotional material for Prey has largely avoided featuring the creature. There have been a few quick glimpses of the Predator in trailers and stills for the movie, yet most of them have either been when it’s using stealth camouflage or covered by smoke and shadows.
Promotional stills featured in SFX Magazine have finally given a clear look at the Predator’s new design. Most of the images feature Amber Midthunder as Naru, the film’s Comanche warrior protagonist, as she tracks and battles the Predator. The Prey magazine cover shows another glimpse of the creature again obscured by smoke; however, one of the images gives a clear look at the back of the Predator. Check out the five images below:
Even though some may be concerned the Predator is getting a significant redesign, Prey does stand a good chance of successfully rebooting the series. Disney may not feel as confident in the movie since it will be the first Predator film not released in theaters, but if it does well, more sequels could be on the way. Director Dan Trachtenberg has teased he has exciting ideas for the Predator franchise’s future. Still, that will likely depend on how Prey performs when it is released on Hulu. Many are curious to see how the creature looks in the finished product, but the story could easily be what makes or breaks the latest sequel.
It’s common for monster movies to conceal their creatures until they actually show up on screen. However, it was unknown why the Predator was being hidden since all franchise fans know what it looks like. Each Predator movie has made variations to the Yautja, and Prey looks to be making the most significant changes yet. Trachtenberg previously explained the Predator looks different this time around because its armor is 300 years older than when audiences first saw it. Trachtenberg wanted to make the Predator look more like a scary alien creature by stripping down some of its armor, and based on these images, it looks like the movie’s team has accomplished this.
Source: SFX Magazine
