Is ‘Prey’ a Reboot or a Prequel? Unraveling the Predator Timeline
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The answer is definitive: Prey (2022) is a prequel to the original Predator films. It’s a thrilling addition to the franchise that enriches the existing lore by taking us back in time, rather than wiping the slate clean with a reboot. Think of it as a historical deep dive into the Predator’s hunting habits, set centuries before Arnold Schwarzenegger ever uttered the iconic line, “Get to the choppa!”
Understanding the Terms: Reboot vs. Prequel
Before we dive deeper, let’s clarify what these terms mean in the context of film franchises:
- Reboot: A reboot essentially restarts a franchise, often disregarding previous storylines, characters, and established lore. It’s a fresh start, typically aiming to attract a new audience or revitalize a flagging series.
- Prequel: A prequel tells a story that takes place before the events of previously established works in a franchise. It expands upon the existing world, offering insights into the origins of characters, events, or concepts already familiar to the audience.
‘Prey’ as a Prequel: A Deep Dive into the Past
Prey transports us to the Northern Great Plains in 1719, following the story of Naru, a young Comanche woman who dreams of proving herself as a hunter. When a mysterious and highly advanced extraterrestrial hunter (the Feral Predator) begins stalking her tribe, Naru must use all her skills and cunning to protect her people.
Crucially, Prey doesn’t erase or contradict any previous Predator movies. Instead, it provides a backstory, showing us one of the Predator’s earliest hunts on Earth. It offers intriguing explanations for certain elements seen in the original films, such as the flintlock pistol given to Detective Harrigan in Predator 2. The flintlock in Predator 2 is thought to be the same flintlock owned by Raphael Adolini in Prey.
Why ‘Prey’ Isn’t a Reboot
Several factors confirm Prey’s status as a prequel and disprove any notion of it being a reboot:
- Continuity: The film doesn’t ignore or contradict the existing Predator timeline. It fits neatly within it, filling in gaps and adding layers of depth.
- Character Connections: While the characters in Prey are new, their actions and experiences contribute to the overall lore of the Predator universe.
- Thematic Consistency: Prey retains the core themes of the Predator franchise: hunting, survival, and the clash between different cultures and technologies.
The Impact of ‘Prey’ on the Predator Franchise
Prey has been widely praised for its fresh take on the Predator mythos. It’s successfully reinvigorated the franchise while staying true to its roots. The film’s success demonstrates that audiences are eager for more Predator stories, especially those that explore new settings, characters, and perspectives.
FAQs: Your Burning Questions About ‘Prey’ Answered
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further clarify the nuances surrounding Prey and its place in the Predator universe:
1. Is ‘Prey’ the first Predator movie chronologically?
Yes, Prey is set in 1719, making it the earliest chronological installment in the Predator franchise.
2. Do I need to watch the other Predator movies before ‘Prey’?
While it’s not strictly necessary, watching the original Predator and Predator 2 will enhance your appreciation of Prey. You’ll recognize thematic elements and subtle nods to the previous films.
3. What makes the Predator in ‘Prey’ different?
The Feral Predator in Prey is more primitive and animalistic than the Predators seen in later films. Its technology is less advanced, and its hunting style is more brutal.
4. How does ‘Prey’ connect to the other Predator movies?
Prey connects through shared themes, the presence of the Predator species, and subtle Easter eggs that reference previous films. The flintlock pistol is the most visible physical connection.
5. Will there be a ‘Prey 2’?
While nothing has been officially confirmed, rumors of a Prey 2 are circulating, suggesting that Hulu and director Dan Trachtenberg are interested in continuing the story.
6. Is ‘Prey’ a remake of the 2010 film ‘Predators’?
No, Prey is not a remake of Predators. It’s an entirely separate story set in a different time period with different characters.
7. Does ‘Prey’ have any connections to the ‘Alien vs. Predator’ movies?
While both franchises share a connection through 20th Century Fox, Prey doesn’t directly reference the Alien vs. Predator films. It primarily focuses on expanding the Predator lore.
8. Is ‘Prey’ a “soft reboot” of the Predator franchise?
Some consider Prey a “soft reboot” because it revitalizes the franchise with a fresh perspective while still respecting the existing canon. It doesn’t erase previous films but rather builds upon them.
9. What is the significance of the Comanche language in ‘Prey’?
Prey features a Comanche dub, making it a groundbreaking film in terms of Indigenous representation. The Comanche language is integral to the film’s authenticity and cultural sensitivity.
10. How does ‘Prey’ handle Indigenous representation?
Prey prioritizes Indigenous representation by casting Native American actors in leading roles, consulting with Comanche cultural advisors, and showcasing Comanche language and traditions.
11. What is the “Games Learning Society” and how does it relate to ‘Prey’?
While not directly related to the Prey film, the Games Learning Society is a research and design community focused on understanding and designing games for learning and positive social impact. It shows the wider impact of gaming and movie franchises on learning and education. You can visit their website at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/. The success of Prey can be used as an example of a successful movie, or series, within popular culture that can inspire and interest the public.
12. Was ‘Prey’ originally intended for a theatrical release?
Yes, there has been much debate about whether ‘Prey’ should have been released in theaters. Many felt the movie was so well done that it deserved a theatrical release, but it was ultimately released on Hulu.
13. Who directed ‘Prey’?
‘Prey’ was directed by Dan Trachtenberg.
14. How does the setting of 1719 contribute to the story of ‘Prey’?
The 1719 setting allows the film to explore the clash between the Predator’s advanced technology and the more primitive weapons and survival skills of the Comanche. This creates a unique and compelling dynamic.
15. What are the main themes explored in ‘Prey’?
Prey explores themes of hunting, survival, cultural identity, and the challenges of proving oneself in the face of overwhelming odds.
Conclusion: ‘Prey’ is a Valuable Addition
Prey is a compelling prequel that expands the Predator universe in exciting new ways. Its success demonstrates the potential for revitalizing established franchises by exploring untold stories and embracing diverse perspectives. By understanding its place in the Predator timeline, you can fully appreciate the film’s contribution to the overall mythos.