What Is the Story About?
Naaru (Amber Midthunder) is a healer for her tribe, but she wants to be a warrior like her brother, Taabe (Dakota Beavers). The movie’s basic plot is how an unexpected deadly encounter with an out-of-the-world Predator brings out the true warrior in her.
Performances?
Amber Midthunder as Naaru is a superb choice for the part. She is young and tough and manages to bring vulnerability to the role, which is very essential for it to work with the audience. Amber offers the right combination of skilful action and subtle emotions. One is instantly drawn into the narrative due to her believable personality and portrayal.
Analysis
Dan Trachtenberg directs Prey. It is the fifth instalment in the Predator series and works as the first part’s prequel, which came out way back in 1987.
The movie’s basic idea itself is a winner. All that was needed was a gripping execution, and director Dan Trachtenberg managed it brilliantly. The setup takes a little time initially, but it is up and running immediately without wasting time.
The Native American Tribe background and the atmosphere lend perfectly to a thrilling Predator movie. The narrative takes us back to the thrills that made the original film such a big success in the first place.
But, there is more to Prey than mere preying and escaping. The Native American angle and the treatment of women, The French trader’s aspect, add additional layers to the proceedings and bring a depth that is usually not associated with these flicks.
They all work together as the narrative mainly sticks to the thrills. The drama is used sparingly to add an emotional connection and bring some unexpected twists to the tale. There aren’t overused to take away from the core experience.
The main parts involving the Predator and the landscape are excellently done. The former is as intriguingly used as the latter. The combination is what elevates the experience.
The action and drama, combined with thrills, keep the momentum going. There is a slight lag between establishing the different elements, but they are necessary to make the final impact. The fact that we even care a bit for the dog shows how well things have worked.
Overall, Prey is a superb prequel to the popular Predator movie. It packs thrills and a little bit of drama in the proper proportions. The setting and atmosphere make it a winner. Give the film a try if you are okay with gore and raw violence. If you have seen previous flicks of the series, it is a must-watch.
Other Artists?
Dakota Beavers, as Taabe, plays the brother of Naaru. He does well in what’s given to him. His part is slightly better than other supporting roles due to the emotional moments. The rest of the actors are alright in their brief appearances.
Music and Other Departments?
The background score, along with the sound design, adds to the thrills. There is a chilling effect, even with minimal sounds. Jeff Cutter’s cinematography adds to the mood. But, it feels like borrowed aesthetics from movies set in similar spaces or those impactful in that space. The editing is fine. Despite the slow pace, there is very little that is dull. The writing is adequate for the narrative.
Highlights?
Setting
Atmosphere
Thrills
Basic Idea
Drawbacks?
Slow Pace
Slow Start
Did I Enjoy It?
Yes
Will You Recommend It?
Yes
Prey Movie Review by Binged Bureau
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