The latest chapter in the sci-fi franchise
introduces us to a new type of Predator: an
über-Predator if you will. This 10-foot-tall
brute has upgraded itself using the DNA
of other lethal species and – in a breath-
stealing scene – easily disposes of a less-
enhanced version. “Are they hunting each
other now?’ queries Olivia Munn’s biologist.
Not exactly... this is a sequel full of twists.
After a sweltering showdown
with a LA-terrorising Predator,
Danny Glover’s
triumphant cop
Mike Harrigan
is presented with
an antique pistol
by the alien’s
brethren. Proving
that, for them,
this really is a sport.
One of cinema’s great lines,
delivered by Arnie’s besieged
commando, Dutch, as he urges
civilian Anna to save herself.
Like all the best creature features, the Predator isn’t
revealed in its full glory until two thirds of the way
through the original film, with its mask only coming
off in the explosive final battle. This late-in-the-day
unveiling was practical as well as plot-driven. Effects
creator Stan Winston was given just
eight weeks to build the beast
after the original Jean-
Claude Van Damme-
sported costume
failed to make the
grade. The result
is a truly iconic
movie monster.
Or, as Arnie
puts it: “One
ugly mother-
f******!”
See The Predator in cinemas from 13 September
odeon.co.uk 19
PHOTOS:
In a gob-smacking twist,
a rag-tag group of human killers
discover they’re not in the Amazon as
they first thought, but rather – judging by
the beautiful yet strange sky – a jungle on
an alien planet. “We’re going to need a new
plan,” says leader Royce. And lots of prayers!