Predator: Killer of Killers

“Predator: Killer of Killers” (2025) is not just another installment in the long-running Predator franchise—it’s a daring, animated anthology film that dares to rewrite the rules. Directed by Dan Trachtenberg (of Prey fame) and Joshua Wassung, and penned by Micho Rutare and Jim Thomas, this animated feature dives into fresh waters by presenting a triptych of stories from vastly different historical periods, united by one terrifying element: the Yautja, or Predator. While many fans remember the brutal jungle hunts and sci-fi tech from previous entries, Killer of Killers introduces something fresh: deeply human protagonists from different eras, all facing the ultimate intergalactic hunter. This film is a perfect blend of bloody spectacle, high concept, and unexpected emotional depth.

From Star Trek to Dr Who to Star Wars, there is no stone that has not been unturned in the pursuit of wokeness. The Predator franchise being no exception. "Predator: Killer or Killers" is the latest instalment in the diversity, female empowerment, social engineering experiment that's inflicted itself, on contemporary audiences. Made up of distinct predator themed stories, its annoying from the get go, not to mention eye rollingly implausible. In summary, I could find little to nothing to like here, given how hard it was to see past the dreary miasma of politicised, social engineering. Not recommended.

I caught up with "Predator: Killer of Killers" with extremely high expectations, driven by my deep appreciation for Dan Trachtenberg, who delivered one of my favorite films in the saga, the exceptional "Prey", and the best installment in another franchise, "10 Cloverfield Lane". I was surprised by the movie's structure as a triptych of interconnected stories, immediately promising the kind of creative freedom live-action often lacks. Against those high expectations, "Predator: Killer of Killers" delivers a fantastic experience. While its distinct storylines are simple and admittedly formulaic, they serve as compelling platforms for the film's true centerpiece: the stunning animation. This audiovisual approach is peak entertainment, presenting action that's colorful, brutal, and remarkably cinematic, with gorgeous wide shots and excellent choreography. The way the conclusion weaves the three narratives together is equally powerful, completing the simple character arcs before culminating in a truly phenomenal last shot. This is a movie that beautifully expands the "Predator" universe, deeply exploring themes of warrior culture, honor, family, legacy, and the drive for survival. It's brilliant proof that ambition and singular vision can reinvigorate any franchise, and its final image serves as an inspiring summary of the complex journey between the hunt and destiny. Rating: A-