The Predator Film Series: A Comprehensive Guide & Viewing Order

As of October 2024, there are seven feature-length Predator movies in the main franchise, including spinoffs and crossovers. Understanding their chronological order – both release and in-universe – is key to appreciating the Yautja’s brutal cinematic legacy.

The Predator Universe Unveiled: From Jungle to Galaxy

The Predator franchise, known for its iconic alien hunter and visceral action, has captivated audiences for decades. From its humble beginnings in the jungles of Central America to its expansion across planets and timelines, the Predator universe continues to evolve. This article serves as your definitive guide, outlining the films in their viewing order, clarifying any discrepancies, and answering frequently asked questions about this thrilling sci-fi horror series.

Predator Movies in Release Order: A Cinematic Timeline

The easiest way to experience the Predator movies is by following their release order. This provides the most natural progression of the lore and visual effects advancements. Here’s the list:

1. Predator (1987): Directed by John McTiernan, this film introduces the iconic Yautja to the world, pitting him against Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Major Alan “Dutch” Schaefer and his elite mercenary team.
2. Predator 2 (1990): Moving the action to Los Angeles, this sequel sees a different Predator hunting amidst a drug war, with Danny Glover as Detective Lieutenant Mike Harrigan.
3. Alien vs. Predator (2004): A crossover event, this film brings the Predator and Alien franchises together, depicting a battle between the two species in an ancient pyramid beneath Antarctica.
4. Alien vs. Predator: Requiem (2007): A direct sequel to Alien vs. Predator, this film sees the Alien and Predator conflict spill over into a small town in Colorado.
5. Predators (2010): Directed by Nimród Antal and produced by Robert Rodriguez, this installment sees a group of skilled warriors abducted and placed on a game preserve planet to be hunted by Super Predators.
6. The Predator (2018): Directed by Shane Black, this film introduces a new, genetically enhanced Predator species and follows a group of ex-soldiers and a scientist as they try to stop them.
7. Prey (2022): A prequel set in 1719, this film follows Naru, a young Comanche woman, as she confronts a technologically advanced Predator in the Great Plains.

The In-Universe Chronological Order: Exploring the Predator Timeline

While release order offers a good viewing experience, some fans prefer to watch the movies according to their in-universe timeline. This emphasizes the evolution of the Predator species and the different historical periods they’ve visited. Here’s the chronological timeline:

1. Prey (2022): Set in 1719, it establishes the earliest encounter between humans and Predators.
2. Predator (1987): The original film, featuring Dutch and his team in the jungles of Central America.
3. Predator 2 (1990): Set in Los Angeles, showcasing a Predator adapting to an urban environment.
4. Alien vs. Predator (2004): Depicting the ancient conflict between Predators and Aliens.
5. Alien vs. Predator: Requiem (2007): Continuing the battle in a modern setting.
6. Predators (2010): A group of humans are hunted on a Predator game preserve planet.
7. The Predator (2018): Introducing evolved Predators and their advanced technology.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Predator Film Series

This section provides answers to common questions about the Predator movies, helping you understand the lore, characters, and behind-the-scenes aspects of the franchise.

General Questions

• FAQ 1: Are the Alien vs. Predator movies considered canon to the main Predator series? The canonicity of the Alien vs. Predator films is often debated. While they exist within the same universe, many consider them to be separate from the main Predator timeline. 20th Century Studios has not explicitly stated them as canon.

• FAQ 2: Which Predator movie is considered the best by fans and critics? The original Predator (1987) is almost universally acclaimed as the best film in the franchise. Its suspenseful atmosphere, iconic monster design, and strong performances make it a classic of the action-horror genre.

• FAQ 3: Will there be more Predator movies in the future? Given the success of Prey and the enduring popularity of the Predator concept, it’s highly likely that more Predator movies will be made. Discussions and rumored projects are consistently circulating within the film industry.

Character & Lore Specifics

• FAQ 4: What is the Predator species called? The Predators are commonly referred to as Yautja in expanded universe material such as comics, novels, and video games. This term has not been explicitly used within the movies themselves, but it is widely accepted by fans.

• FAQ 5: Why do Predators hunt? Predators hunt for sport and honor. They seek out worthy prey, often targeting skilled warriors and apex predators, to test their abilities and earn trophies.

• FAQ 6: What are the Predators’ weapons and technology? Predators utilize a range of advanced weapons, including the Plasma Caster, wrist blades, cloaking technology, and self-destruct devices. Their technology is designed for both hunting and self-preservation.

Production and Behind-the-Scenes

• FAQ 7: Who designed the original Predator creature? The original Predator creature was designed by Stan Winston, a legendary special effects artist known for his work on films like Aliens and Terminator 2: Judgment Day. Jean-Claude Van Damme was originally cast as the predator before Winston’s design was finalised.

• FAQ 8: Why was Shane Black’s The Predator (2018) controversial? The Predator (2018) faced criticism for its plot inconsistencies, tonal shifts away from the franchise’s horror roots, and controversial behind-the-scenes decisions.

• FAQ 9: How does Prey (2022) connect to the original Predator movie? Prey establishes a connection to Predator 2 through the flintlock pistol given to Naru at the end of the film. This is the same pistol that Detective Harrigan receives in Predator 2, suggesting it has passed through various hands since its initial appearance in the 18th century.

Viewing Recommendations and Clarifications

• FAQ 10: What order should I watch the Predator movies for the first time? For a first-time viewing experience, it’s generally recommended to watch the movies in release order. This allows you to experience the evolution of the franchise as it was intended.

• FAQ 11: Are the Predator movies appropriate for children? The Predator movies are generally rated R (or equivalent depending on your region) due to their violence, gore, and language. They are not appropriate for children.

• FAQ 12: Where can I stream or rent the Predator movies? The Predator movies are available on various streaming platforms, including Hulu, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video (availability may vary by region). They can also be rented or purchased digitally through services like iTunes and Google Play.

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of the Predator

From its chilling debut in the jungles of Guatemala to its expansion across the galaxy, the Predator franchise has cemented its place in sci-fi horror history. Whether you prefer the release order or the chronological timeline, the Predator films offer a visceral and thrilling experience. The future of the Predator universe remains bright, promising new stories and terrifying encounters with the ultimate hunter. Understanding the existing lore and navigating the viewing order will undoubtedly enhance your appreciation for this iconic series.