This week we take a look at one of the most dangerous monsters of them all. Staggering at a towering height of seven feet, green blood pumping through its veins, and hunting skills that can catch any prey, the Predators are one of the most lethal creatures in fiction.
History of the Predator
In the actual Predator lore, the alien species arrived on Earth from the 
planet Boutevoya as early as ancient human civilization. Humans worshiped the Predators as Gods and were taught to obey and construct pyramids. They were also forced to contribute in sacrifices for their ultimate prey: the Xenomorphs. The feud between the monsters soon spun out of control, forcing the Predators to detonate a bomb and obliterating the entire civilization. Thus, resulting in the end of human relationships, and the separation of the two franchises: Alien and Predator. Throughout the Predator franchise, there are some small references to these moments, but they are mainly expanded on in the extended universe in comics.
Our first formal introduction premieres in 1987 with Predator. Audiences would soon witness a new kind of alien hidden away in the deep tropical jungle of Central America. This film famously stars Arnold Schwarzenegger as Major Alan “Dutch” Schaefer from the U.S. Special Forces who becomes the last surviving member as the Predator hunts his squad for sport. 
Here the franchise picks up in 1990 with Predator 2. This film picks up ten years later after the original events with a new Predator, and takes place in the urban area of Los Angeles hunting gang members and the L.A.P.D. as they try to pursue the creature. This film was an odd choice of setting for many movie-goers, but it became a cult classic. It also features the first reference to Alien in the Predator’s trophy room, where a skull that resembles the Alien head is displayed.
The next two entries in the franchise are cross-over series with the Xenomorphs: Alien vs Predator and Alien vs Predator: Requiem. The first AvP is set near Antarctica where we see more of the Predator’s history displayed in ancient underground pyramids and artifacts. As the Aliens are accidentally awoken by the humans who are exploring, the Predators set off to hunt their foes.
This entry will tie into the sequel directly with the last surviving Predator turns into a Predalien (a nasty cross-breed), killing many Predators and crashing their ship in Gunnison, Colorado. Here is where a 
massive battle takes place on the streets between the the Predalien and the new Predator warrior.
Finally, the last entry released in 2010 titled Predators takes place on a forested planet used as a Predators game reserve. It features two Predator tribes who hunt a group of soldiers and criminals that are dropped on the planet to be hunted. This dangerous cat and mouse game shows the most variety of the Predator species than any other film in the franchise.
Characteristics of the Monster
Predators are far more physically distinguished than humans. At an average height of seven feet, they feature arthropod-like mandibles, a body that is heavily resilient to damage, superior strength, and are able to move and climb quickly. Some of their most famous features portrayed is their infrared vision, where they can detect heat from their prey in any sort of environment. They use a plasma caster on their shoulder that deals fatal blows, but they are also skilled with the use of nets, spears, and bladed weaponry. Their blood is a distinctive luminescent green color that is often shown as they take multiple gunshot wounds or stabs. The Predators are able to handle an excruciating amount of pain while they combat, making them deadly warriors.
The look of the Predator has been portrayed differently in each incarnation. As they all do resemble the same basic look with their face, muscular body, and stature, some feature a heavier and broader chest build while others (such as in Predators) display more of a sleek and taller body. Their colors typically range from grey to black, using heavy armor around their limbs and chest and their iconic helmet to hide their ugly faces.
Cultural Impact of the Franchise
The Predator franchise has spun a wave of other forms of media throughout its history and still currently to this day. An “expanded universe” has been developed outside of the films, that feature more of the creatures lore and further stories that progress the species. These are written in the form of a series of novels as well as multiple comic book series by Dark Horse Comics. If you want a fun read, try finding some copies of Batman vs. Predator or Predator vs. Judge Dredd. And of course, there has been multiple video games that feature this monster and the use of his deadly arsenal and skills. The most recent incarnation of the character is featured in Mortal Kombat X as a downloadable fighter.
Future of the Franchise
Currently, a new sequel is in development by Shane Black titled The Predator. The new film is supposed to be set in modern day with a new upgrade to the Predator’s armor, and Arnold Schwarzenegger is in talks to reprise an older version of his original character. The film is set to be released on March 2, 2018.
So what do you think of the franchise? Do you have a favorite Predator film? Let us know in the comments below!
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That was a great synopsis of The Predator. I saw the original when I was 16yrs old and it blew me away. It’s still holds up and one of Arnold’s best. I’m looking foward for the new movie and hope Schwarzenegger returns for another round.
WHAt?! No way.