Honestly, I wasn't expecting much. Another Predator movie? Really? But then I saw Prey, and that changed everything. So, when I heard about Predator: Killer of Killers, an animated anthology no less, directed by the same guy, Dan Trachtenberg – I was intrigued. And you know what? This thing rules.
Three Tales of Terror (and Triumph)
Forget your typical Predator movie. Killer of Killers throws you headfirst into three completely different time periods: Viking-era Scandinavia, feudal Japan, and World War II. Each chapter follows a different human warrior facing down the ultimate hunter – and each one is a masterclass in intense action and surprisingly emotional storytelling.
- Vikings: A mother’s brutal quest for vengeance after her village is destroyed. Think gritty survival with a fierce, primal Predator.
- Feudal Japan: A silent, visually stunning showdown between estranged brothers – a samurai and a ninja – interrupted by a Predator that moves like a ghost. This was honestly my favorite part.
- World War II: A fighter pilot discovers a chilling truth during his missions over Europe. This chapter was a bit of a change of pace, but still kept me on the edge of my seat.
What’s amazing is how well these disparate stories are woven together. It’s not just three separate shorts; it feels like a complete narrative, with a truly shocking and unexpected climax. I won't spoil it, but trust me, you'll be talking about it afterwards.
Stunning Animation, Brutal Action
The animation style is gorgeous – think Arcane meets Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. It's bold, visually striking, and perfectly complements the brutal action. They don't shy away from the gore, either. If you're a fan of the franchise, get ready for some seriously bloody good times. But it's not just mindless violence; there’s real heart to each of these stories, and the voice acting is superb.
I’m particularly impressed with how Trachtenberg and Wassung adapted the Predator design to each era. Each hunter is unique, fitting seamlessly into its environment. It’s a small detail, but it shows a level of care and attention to detail that really elevates the film.
A Must-Watch for Predator Fans (and Newbies)
Predator: Killer of Killers is easily one of the best entries in the franchise. It's thrilling, beautifully animated, surprisingly emotional, and just plain fun. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the Predator universe, this is a must-see. Streaming on Hulu in the US and Disney+ internationally – go watch it now!
And – let's not forget Louis Ozawa! His voice work in this is phenomenal. I got a serious case of déjà vu hearing that voice and it makes the connections to previous films even better.