How a 1719 Comanche hunter became the ultimate match for a futuristic alien predator
In short: Set in the Northern Great Plains in 1719, Prey reimagines the Predator franchise by stripping away modern technology. Instead of heavy weaponry, a young Comanche woman named Naru relies on ingenuity, tracking skills, and raw fortitude to survive an encounter with a lethal, technologically advanced alien hunter stalking her people.
Directed by Dan Trachtenberg and released in 2022, Prey serves as a prequel to the 1987 original. The film follows Naru, played by Amber Midthunder, who strives to prove herself as a hunter. Her journey takes a dark turn when she discovers a Predator dropship, leading to a deadly game of cat and mouse. Unlike previous entries, the film emphasizes the protagonist's resourcefulness, using her knowledge of the environment and medicinal herbs to counter an adversary that relies on advanced thermal-vision and weaponry.
The production team prioritized cultural authenticity, working with Native American illustrators and producers like Jhane Myers to ensure the Comanche setting felt grounded. This commitment extended to the film's language; it is the first feature film to offer a full Comanche language dub, with the cast reprising their roles for the version. Cinematographer Jeff Cutter utilized natural lighting and the anamorphic format to capture the vastness of the Stoney Nakoda land in Alberta, where the film was shot during the summer of 2021.
The creature design also underwent a shift. Portrayed by Dane DiLiegro, the Predator was given a leaner, more feline physique, moving away from the hulking wrestler aesthetic of the 1987 film. The suit itself weighed 80 pounds and was made of foam latex, presenting significant physical challenges for the actor. The film's success—marked by high viewership on Hulu and critical acclaim—led to a resurgence for the franchise, including two additional films directed by Trachtenberg released in 2025.
While some critics felt the film's symbolism was half-baked, many praised its patient pacing and the focus on character-driven tension. By stripping the Predator of its usual context and placing it against a protagonist who uses her wits rather than brute strength, Prey managed to revitalize a long-running series, eventually earning an Emmy for Outstanding Sound Editing.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Prey (2022 film)
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