Spoiler Alert
Over the years, the lore surrounding the Yautja has evolved. In the latest installment, Predator: Killer of Killers, they seek more than just the thrill of the hunt. From standalone films to crossovers with the Aliens universe and various comic books, each iteration adds something new to this elite race of galactic hunters.
Should one of their targets survive by defeating a Predator, that individual earns a mark of respect. Without giving away too much of this animated magnum opus, the story by Dan Trachtenberg (who also directs) and Micho Robert Rutare raises the stakes. It honors the tradition of the original film while incorporating familiar elements from both the live-action entries and comic books—such as the possibility that a clan leader might offer the victor a place among them.
The Yautja’s frequent visits to Earth had me wondering why a Viking, a ninja, and a pilot were chosen as targets. While the latter gets involved in typical Macross fashion (think Hikaru Ichijyo/Rick Hunter), the others seem deliberately hunted. Even the aerial battle evokes anime-style action, where pilots must be top-tier to survive against UAPs. When a Predator senses conflict, he’ll often observe from the shadows, stepping in only once a victor emerges—unless, of course, he becomes the final challenge. In the third tale, which centers on an aerial assault, this cyber Predator gets more than he bargained for…
Each narrative in Killer of Killers introduces a unique hero: Ursa (Lindsay LaVanchy) is a fierce Norse warrior, Kenji (Louis Ozawa) is a nimble ninja, and Torres (Rick Gonzalez) is a trainee pilot who feels more like a mechanic than a soldier. Each faces off against a Predator in his or her respective timelines. To avoid confusion, Trachtenberg clarifies that the Yautja do not possess time travel technology.
The standout segment is Torres’ story, which evolves into a gripping alien abduction encounter. I won’t spoil the epilogue, but his arc ties all three narratives together. Just when it seems things can’t get worse, a new alpha appears. He’s not a king, but something far more terrifying. Dubbed “Grendel” by Ursa, he wears multiple Xenomorph skeletons as trophies—and it’s a chilling sight.
I remain cautious about Marvel Comics’ take on the franchise. But if there’s a continuation of what Trachtenberg has created, it’ll likely come from them rather than Dark Horse Comics. Even so, it’s clear this production drew inspiration from Dark Horse’s legacy. And with the upcoming movie titled Badlands—a name straight out of their playbook—I can’t help but feel hopeful.
5 Stars out of 5
Predator: Killer of Killers Movie Trailer
