Hi everyone! Long time reader, first time poster/member here.
Just thought I'd contribute my thoughts and say that I really enjoyed Prey!
The Predator series as a whole was one that I always enjoyed each entry of, at least up until Shane Black's The Predator, which is the worst film in the entire franchise imo. So, frankly, the only thing I wanted was for Prey to be better than The Predator, and it definitely delivers on that front thankfully.
It's not a perfect film, but it's very much a solid entry and course correction for the series!
I've watched it 3 times since it's came out and enjoyed it each time, which I think is saying something. It's just fun to watch!
Likes:
-Very well shot/great cinematography
-Decently paced
-Main character's are well written, likeable, and have clear arcs
-Feral is an interesting and unique Predator, and has some cool kills
-Great action sequences and set pieces that are fun to watch
-Well done original score that stands out in the series, and has some great emotional beats
Dislikes:
-Like many, I'm not a huge fan of Feral's face design, but I have to admit it's growing on me. I think the practical effects version looks 100x better than the CG version.
-While the action is solid, I think it's lacking in some of the genuine tension that the first 3 films had.
-Would have liked some more additions to the Predator lore/world-building, on the same level that Predator 2 contributed.
Overall I'm happy with the film, and continue to roll my eyes at a lot of the anti-"woke"/misogynistic/racist/nitpicky comments that a lot of ignorant people have made towards the film.
I don't think this film is without it's fair criticisms, I've seen some good points in this thread, but I think a lot of people went in wanting to hate the film, and/or have thoughts that come from a place of ignorance.
I'm looking forward to seeing where they continue in the series from here! Whether it be a direct sequel or a more anthology direction.
My score: ☆☆☆☆/5!