"Prey" presents itself as a prequel to the much-adulated "Predator" series, originally helmed by Arnold Schwarzenegger. Director Dan Trachtenberg along with co-writer Patrick Aison were able to recapture the magic which made the franchise so popular and enduring in the first place.

The prequel's emotional anchor rests on a 'Comanche' hunter and healer named Naru, and her journey to coming-of-age. While initially she is given the role of a gatherer due to her gender, Naru works tirelessly to become a hunter and warrior like her older brother Taabe (Dakota Beavers).

Played by Amber Midthunder, Naru gives you the impression that she is superior when and where it counts. It's kinetic, yet still in tune with who this woman is—as you watch her leap, swim, sprint, and notch arrows in a flash. She graduates from being hunted to a hunter and the character development is breathtaking to follow.

Being a keen observant, she quickly notices subtle details that point to the existence of an extraterrestrial. As the film progresses, she gears up to fight ferociously against the intergalactic warrior to protect her people from the biggest threat they have ever encountered.

It is empowering to watch Naru fight against all odds, believe in herself and defend her tribe against external danger. The skepticism and resistance from male hunters—and even Naru's own mother—only help build her motivation to prove them all wrong.

The wholesome sibling relationship between Naru and Taabe was one of the hallmarks of the movie, as the latter supported his sister's ambition to be a hunter from the very beginning. Naru's exceptional hunting and gathering skills gave her leverage over the people who tried to bring her down. It also gave her an edge against the Predator, even though he was equipped with technology and a unique arsenal.

Draped in metal loincloth and armed with steely claws is Dane DiLiegro. Midway into the movie, his translucent silhouette reveals a buff body that makes him look like he jumped straight out of a GQ magazine cover. Admittedly, the reveal was teased in a way that was satisfying and piqued curiosity. Trachtenberg cleverly inserted scenes where the camera is stationary for enough time to envelop us with suspense about where the Predator is hiding.

Read more

SRK’s first look for ‘Brahmastra’ leaked online

Cinematographer, Jeff Cutter created stunning backdrops with its greenery and wild animals.Whether it's the fight scene in the burning forest or the final showdown between Naru and the Predator, it evokes fear and trepidation in the audience. You can never guess when or where the Predator will leap and who it will attack. Composer, Sarah Schachner's score also perfectly complemented the emotional storyline.

Pairing these elements with well-timed stunt choreography, "Prey" pulls off a fantastic job and deserves to be enjoyed in theatres.

Despite plenty of riveting action sequences, "Prey" is chiefly about disproving people who underestimate your potential. It focuses on a brain vs brawn approach, even though the franchise is essentially based on a survival of the fittest narrative, which is what appealed to the public. However, taking a character-driven route did not fail Trachtenberg. "Prey" is a distinctive addition to its genre as well as the franchise itself due to its coherent storytelling and excellent performances from the cast.