Prey, directed by Dan Trachtenberg, reimagines the Predator franchise by taking it back in time to the early 1700s, delivering a survival thriller that’s both visceral and visually captivating. Set in the Northern Great Plains, this prequel tells the story of a young Comanche woman named Naru (Amber Midthunder) as she faces off against one of the deadliest alien hunters in the galaxy. Combining raw survival instincts with stunning landscapes, Prey offers a unique perspective and a grounded take on the Predator saga, mixing action, suspense, and cultural respect in a fresh new direction.

🏹 Plot Overview: A Battle for Survival and Honor

Set in 1719, Prey follows Naru, a young and skilled Comanche healer and aspiring hunter who dreams of proving herself in a male-dominated world. When a mysterious threat appears in her homeland, leaving a trail of death and destruction, Naru is determined to protect her people. However, she soon discovers that this threat isn’t a bear or any other familiar predator—it’s a highly advanced alien hunter, the Predator, with advanced weaponry and a bloodthirst for skilled prey.

As Naru’s hunt for the creature intensifies, she uses her keen intelligence, deep knowledge of the land, and relentless determination to match the Predator’s strength with her own skills. The ensuing showdown between Naru and the Predator is not just a fight for survival; it’s a test of willpower, ingenuity, and the deep bond Naru shares with her culture and people.

🎨 Cinematic Beauty and Attention to Historical Detail

Prey is as much a visual masterpiece as it is an action-packed thriller. The film is set against the beautiful, untamed landscapes of the Great Plains, and the sweeping cinematography immerses the audience in the open wilderness, contrasting the beauty of nature with the brutality of the hunt. The film’s attention to historical and cultural authenticity, from the Comanche language used in dialogue to the traditional attire and weaponry, brings an added layer of depth and respect to Naru’s story and her people.

Trachtenberg’s direction balances intimate close-ups with wide, expansive shots, building tension through visuals and creating a sense of looming dread as Naru tracks her alien foe through misty forests, grassy fields, and murky swamps. The stark, realistic approach to the setting gives Prey a grounded feel that elevates it above traditional sci-fi horror.

🎬 Film Details:

• Title: Prey
• Director: Dan Trachtenberg
• Release Date: August 5, 2022
• Cast: Amber Midthunder (Naru), Dakota Beavers (Taabe), Dane DiLiegro (The Predator)
• Genre: Action, Thriller, Sci-Fi
• Runtime: 1h 39m
• Language Options: Comanche-language dub available

🌌 Themes of Bravery, Cultural Identity, and Resilience

Prey explores powerful themes of bravery and resilience, particularly in Naru’s journey to find her place within her community. She faces societal expectations, proving her value in a world that initially underestimates her because of her gender and role as a healer. Her battle against the Predator becomes symbolic of her determination to challenge norms, showcasing a journey of personal growth and empowerment.

The film also emphasizes the importance of cultural identity and respect for nature. Naru’s connection to her homeland and deep understanding of the natural world play pivotal roles in her survival against an alien foe. Prey balances thrilling action with cultural appreciation, making the Predator story feel new while respecting the Indigenous traditions it represents.

🪓 Intense Action and Survival Skills

Prey delivers on intense action scenes that emphasize survival skills over advanced weaponry. Naru’s clever use of traps, stealth, and resourcefulness is captivating, and her ingenuity in the face of the Predator’s technology highlights her quick thinking and adaptability. The Predator itself is a primal version of the creature seen in previous films, with a more brutal, raw approach to hunting, making it an even more terrifying adversary for Naru.

One of the film’s standout moments includes a tense, action-packed sequence where Naru uses her hatchet, a weapon she’s crafted for both distance and melee attacks, showcasing her creativity and survival instincts. The climactic showdown between Naru and the Predator is a carefully choreographed sequence that merges her tactical skills and her deep-rooted connection to the land, culminating in a battle that feels as fierce as it is primal.

⭐ Final Verdict: A Bold, Innovative Take on the Predator Franchise

Prey redefines what a Predator film can be, emphasizing atmosphere, authenticity, and character-driven storytelling. By placing a young Indigenous woman at the center of the story, the film brings a fresh perspective that reinvigorates the franchise, making it accessible for both newcomers and longtime fans. Amber Midthunder’s performance as Naru is fierce and authentic, carrying the story with resilience and emotional depth that makes Prey more than just an action film.

With its blend of suspense, historical authenticity, and exhilarating action, Prey stands as one of the most unique entries in the Predator series and is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates survival thrillers with a heart.