Released back in 1987, “Predator” has remained a classic to moviegoers around the world. With its intense action, intriguingly original narrative, and stellar acting from stars Arnold Schwarzenegger and Carl Weathers, it’s no question why this film hits the tops of many personal “Top Film” lists across the globe. Throughout the franchise’s life, there have been arguably many hits and misses. Nonetheless, the love for the Predator and its world is shared by many. However, with this new addition to the franchise, does that same love exist? Does this new generation still appreciate these films as much as their predecessors, or is this another example of Hollywood running out of ideas and dragging a successful franchise through the dirt just to make some money?

To start off, I was surprised how many people decided to come to see this film. Upon watching the film the Saturday of its opening weekend, my accompaniment and I were two of seven moviegoers in attendance. With the opening weekend’s box office sales reaching a mere $24 million, this is staggering and highly unfortunate. But I wouldn’t say that this is a surprise. The marketing for this film was next to non-existent. The only word getting out about this film was with its trailers released months before the film’s theatrical debut. Aside from that, occasional movie posters would also try to strike your memory. I mean, even the movie theaters didn’t play its trailer before any of the other movies releasing before it. But of course, the box office and advertisement flaws do not at all reflect the film itself, and whether it’s worth your time.

The Predator is a surprisingly entertaining film. Filled with great action, natural comedy, and intense stakes, it’s easy to tell that some love was put into this flick. Especially when you realize that the director, Shane Black, had played Hawkins in the original Predator in ‘87. I’m happy that this film did not try to replicate the original like 2010’s Predators, and instead decided to do its own thing. And honestly, this, for the most part, works exceptionally well.

The most important aspect of this film to get correct was, of course, the creatures. And thankfully they are not only great, but these are some of the most threatening the franchise has ever seen. The incredible mix of CG and practical effects bringing the Yautja (that’s the race of the Predators) and their technology to life. Each one we encountered on this journey was not only unique, but also deadly and terrifying in their own respective ways. And this new narrative they’ve created with the Predators is incredibly intriguing, and without giving anything away, definitely leaves you wondering what else might be out there in terms of Predators.

However, like every other film, there are apparent flaws. For one thing, the film’s main protagonist Quinn McKenna, played by Boyd Holbrook, was a rather dull and uninteresting character. Holbrook did a great job in this film with what he was given, but unfortunately what he was given to work with, I felt, was an uninspired and unmemorable. I found myself much more invested with the crew of very unique and clever characters he puts together, one of which portrayed by Keegan-Michael Key. Speaking of Key, like I mentioned before there was a lot of comedy in this film. But in my opinion, it hurts the film. This film loses the horror and thriller feel from the previous films and instead ends up feeling like a comedy featuring the Predators.

A satisfying sequel, “The Predator” is a wonderfully entertaining film and definitely deserves a watch. If you’re searching for an action film to enjoy with a group of friends, this is definitely it. My final rating for “The Predator” is a well deserved 7.5 out of ten.