Audiences are thrust back into the world of Predator in the R-rated animated film, Predator: Killer of Killers.
Embark on a thrilling journey with three of the fiercest warriors in history, including a Viking raider, a ninja fighting against his samurai brother, and a WWII fighter pilot. As they engage in intense battles with their respective enemies, little do they know that they are being hunted by some of the universe’s deadliest predators.
Predator: Killer of Killers stands out with its anthology-style storytelling, a unique approach that pays homage to the Predator franchise. Under the skilleddirection of Prey‘s Dan Trachtenberg, the film takes on a new dimension. Trachtenberg, renowned for his work on Prey, brings his Predator lore expertise to Predator: Killer of Killers, collaborating with director Joshua Wassung and writer Micho Robert Rutare. Together, they craft a visually striking and captivating addition to the Predator series.
As an animation enthusiast, I was astounded by the quality of Killer of Killers. The Third Floor, Inc., a VR, pre- and post-visualization company with a stellar portfolio including Mad Max: Fury Road, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, Terminator: Dark Fate, Wonder Woman, and Venom, was instrumental in delivering the exceptional animation in Predator: Killer of Killers. Their attention to detail, from the subtle changes in a character’s facial features before their demise to the iconic open maw of the Yautja, is executed with precision, leaving a lasting impression. The animation in this film is not just good, it’s groundbreaking, pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved in animated storytelling.
Integral to the story are the action sequences, and coupled with the fantastic animation, it works brilliantly. The animation not only brings the characters to life but also enhances the storytelling by allowing for sequences that might be difficult to film in live-action. This is where Killer of Killers shines. It could be as simple as the reflection off a samurai sword or a group of fighter jets trying not to be prey, and it all looks tremendous. Predator: Killer of Killers has some of the most creative fight scenes and kill scenes in the franchise. They enhance the story, but don’t rely solely on it. The true heart of the story lies in the warriors we see and their journeys, which will make you feel connected and invested in their fate.
The decision to tell the tale in an anthology format was not only smart but brilliant. It took the story to new heights, showcasing various moments in human history and different Yautja throughout those times. This not only piqued my interest but also engaged me intellectually. It was fascinating to see how the weaponry and appearance of the hunters changed from one time period to another, adding another layer to what makes the Yautja so fierce and frightening. Their technology and intelligence are palpable as you watch them adapt easily to different people, fighting styles, and scenarios. This is what makes them so scary, and it’s highlighted exceptionally well in Predator: Killer of Killers.
When dealing with a franchise that has produced numerous films, one must always strive to differentiate oneself. This is something Trachtenberg previously did with Prey, and he continues that work effortlessly with Predator: Killer of Killers. Trachtenberg re-energized the series, bringing something bold and new that captivated the audience’s attention, and he does the same yet again with this animated gem. From the animation to the storytelling to the voice acting, Predator: Killer of Killers not only reminds viewers what to fear about the Hunters, but also reminds them of what makes them one of the coolest creatures in sci-fi.
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