Warning: Contains SPOILERS for Predator: Killer of Killers
In a stunning evolution of the Predator franchise, co-director Josh Wassung unveils the intricacies behind the creation of the film’s three unique Predator variants in the animated anthology Predator: Killer of Killers. This film acts as a spiritual successor to Dan Trachtenberg’s Prey, which depicted a primitive Predator variant stalking Comanche warriors in the 1700s. The newest installment escalates the conflict by pitting new Predators against legendary warrior cultures throughout human history. Viewers will witness battles between a ninth-century Viking warlord, a 17th-century Japanese samurai, and a WWII fighter pilot, each encountering a distinct Predator tailored to their unique moment in time.
In an exclusive interview with ScreenRant‘s Joe Deckelmeier during the film’s release, Wassung explained the careful consideration that went into choosing each Predator for their respective narrative arcs. Each variant boasts a unique physical build and differing weaponry, yet they all share a core hunting philosophy centered on tracking by heat. Wassung emphasized, “It was really important for us to find the appropriate match because, on the one hand, we did not want to look like the Predator was dressing up like that culture. We needed a good metaphor, a good match for these foes.”
The Logic Behind The Variants Is Important To Why They Work
The essence of the Predator variants stems from the filmmakers’ desire to create captivating opponents without resorting to mere mimicry of human warriors. One fascinating aspect is how the Predators’ fighting styles echo those of their human adversaries. For instance, the Predator facing the Japanese samurai emphasizes stealth and camouflage, reminiscent of a ninja’s tactics. In contrast, the Viking variant leverages brute strength and size, mirroring the ferocity of Viking warriors.
Wassung’s expertise in visual effects further enriches Predator: Killer of Killers; he previously contributed to the visually stunning Masters of the Air, making the WWII segment both a narrative and visual highlight. The “matching” of Predators to their opponents introduces an intriguing layer to the lore: an excerpt from the Yautja Codex suggests that Predators seek out “strongest prey.” However, this might imply a more complex strategy where they choose opponents whose fighting styles reflect their own, thus making battles even more exciting and balanced.
Our Take On The Killer Of Killers‘ Predator Variants
What emerged from this inventive narrative is the notion that the Predator universe expands far beyond our previous conceptions. Each new variant breeds fresh possibilities, hinting at richly diverse forms within the Predator species. This variance is hinted at in earlier films, such as the distinctions between the Super Predators and the classic Jungle Hunters, yet Predator: Killer of Killers seems to unlock an entirely new level of storytelling potential.
The ongoing revelations about the Predators, their methods, and their categories pave the way for future installments, like the anticipated Predator: Badlands. While we might still be unpacking the franchise’s rich history and thematic complexity, Predator: Killer of Killers undoubtedly ignites curiosity and excitement about what lies ahead in this sprawling cinematic universe, much larger than previously imagined.