I was never a big fan of “Predator” growing up — not because I disliked it, I just never really got into it. I’m not sure I have ever seen any of the movies other than the first. So, going into “The Predator,” I was hoping for a reboot of sorts, with enough to pull me into the franchise. Well, it did. “The Predator” is a really fun ride. It knows exactly what it wants to be and never takes itself too seriously. It’s basically a B-level monster movie with a really good cast and some really good comedy.
I would consider “The Predator” to be a sequel, although I’m not sure it is officially classified as a sequel. It takes place in present day, and makes references to previous Predator encounters but never mentions anything about the “Alien” crossover events. The story does enough to advance the mythology and open up the door for additional sequels.
“The Predator” (2018)
Director: Shane Black
Writers: Fred Dekker, Shane Black, Jim Thomas
Stars: Boyd Holbrook, Trevante Rhodes, Jacob Tremblay
Also, the movie is damn funny. It has enough jokes that I would almost consider it a comedy. There was more than one instance when I had tears in my eyes from laughing so hard.
Overall, I really enjoyed “The Predator.” Is it perfect? Not at all. I could name a handful of plot holes and inconsistencies, but it doesn’t matter; the movie is fun and that is what it is intended to be. I would love to give this movie a 4 or higher, but it’s just not the type of movie to earn a 4 or 5. So instead, it gets a strong 3.5 with a recommendation to see it and have some fun.