Predator

One of the classic sci-fi movies and one of the most entertaining action movies ever made. Certainly one of the best Arnold movies, along with Terminator 1 and 2. Mix a simple but effective story, one cool alien, well directed action scenes, Arnold kicking ass and you get an top notch action movie. Sure, there are some exaggerated macho performances, but John knows how to do it with style.

So if you're a young (but not too young) movie viewer who haven't yet seen Predator, be sure to do so to get a sample of action 80's style with Arnold at his peak.

Rating: 8/10

A team of commandos are sent into a central American jungle to extradite US airmen that are being held by terrorists. During the rescue attempt the airmen and the terrorists are killed and the commandos being to return to their pickup location. However as they travel back across the jungle they are picked off one by one by an unseen assassin. With his teams' numbers dwindling, Dutch decides to take a stand.

This ranks as one of Schwarzenegger's best films, mainly because he doesn't ham up the one-liners etc and just plays it straight. The story is pretty straight forward. Once the issue of the airmen rescue is forgotten it is a straight hunt or be hunted affair. The film manages to create a great sense of tension by not revealing the predator until near the end, this means we, like the commandos, are not quite sure what's doing the hunting. If the tension was so good then this could have been a slasher style film with each character being bumped off in a series of gory ways. However McTiernan makes sure that it never feels that basic.

The action is good throughout. But the film benefits from a strong male cast - not great actors but they all fit the parts well. Schwarzenegger isn't wearing his star power on his sleeve like he does in other films and is good here. The rest of the cast are filled out by what could be kindly described as B list stars (except maybe Bill Duke), but Carl Weathers and ex-wrestler Jesse Ventura do well.

Overall this is a B movie creature feature, but it's carried out with such style and aplomb that it's hugely enjoyable throughout.

Predator, released in 1987, remains an iconic movie that has withstood the test of time, and for good reason. It is a true contemporary classic that effortlessly combines action, horror, suspense, and science fiction elements to deliver an exhilarating and unforgettable cinematic experience.

From the beginning, the movie grabs your attention with its intense and atmospheric setting in the dense jungles of Central America. The plot revolves around a group of highly skilled soldiers, played by a talented ensemble cast including Arnold Schwarzenegger, Carl Weathers, and Jesse Ventura, who find themselves being hunted down by an extraterrestrial creature known as the Predator. The tension and excitement build up as the soldiers try to outwit and survive this deadly adversary.

One of the movie's greatest strengths lies in its ability to create a palpable sense of fear and suspense. The anticipation and the unknown nature of the Predator generate an air of uncertainty that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The masterful direction by John McTiernan, coupled with the excellent cinematography and gripping musical score, adds to the overall intensity and contributes to the movie's success.

The visual effects of Predator are nothing short of remarkable. The Predator itself, with its iconic design and thermal vision, has become an instantly recognizable symbol in science fiction and horror. The practical effects make the action sequences thrilling and believable and it was all done without CGI.

Beyond the action and suspense, Predator also offers thought-provoking themes and interesting character dynamics. The movie explores the nature of warfare, masculinity, and the human survival instinct. It delves into the psychological toll of combat and the lengths individuals will go to protect their comrades. This added layer of depth elevates Predator above your typical action movie, making it a memorable and enduring piece of cinema.

As for the performances, Arnold Schwarzenegger shines as the tough and tenacious leader, bringing his indomitable presence and charisma to the screen. The chemistry among the cast members is evident, creating a sense of camaraderie essential to the movie's success.

In conclusion, Predator is a timeless action masterpiece that continues to captivate audiences even after decades since its release. Its thrilling storyline, intense action sequences, groundbreaking visual effects, and compelling themes make it a must-watch for any fan of the genre. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the movie, Predator is an exhilarating journey that should not be missed.

Predator is the perfect blend of 80's action and slasher style sci fi horror. Although it was coined "alien in the jungle" when the script was first floating around, Predator exceeded expectations and cemented itself as a sci-fi titan. Arguably Arnold's best role. The cast had outstanding chemistry and the characters traits and personalities were developed well through the action and what dialogue was there. Special nods to Carl Weathers, Bill Duke, and Jesse Ventura. Very well paced film and some of the best one liners of all time. Pairs together great with the explosive action and gruesome kills. The practical effects still hold up to this day, and the predator costume/design (RIP to the late Kevin Peter Hall who gave us an especially great predator performance) are ahead of it's time. An 80's sci fi gem and truly one of my favorite movies to watch, thank you to everyone who helped make this movie possible.

First of all, if you haven't seen this action, suspense and violence extravaganza, you most certainly are not a true action movie afficionado. The immediate grabbing feature of this movie is its score, very imaginatively composed and created by Alan Silvestri whose other credits include the Back to the Future series and other gems like Who Framed Roger Rabbit. The tempo and build up which the score lends to the film engage its viewers with feelings of fear and nerve wracking suspense for what lurks within the thick of the forest. Take note of Sonny Landham's comment;"there's something out there,and it ain't no man.

The action is fast, furious and merciless. The commandos are killed off one by one, leaving Arnie, Carl Weathers and the surviving members extremely terrified and on the verge of breaking down. Note the heated arguments that some of the commandos get into with each other. There is very animated and fiery action in the beginning (assault on the terrorist camp) but as we are introduced to the true terror of the jungle (or should I say, outer space), the action takes a turn for the more insane eg.Arnie running away armed only with a knife and trembling in fear, almost drowning in a waterfall and thereafter, continually pursued by the Predator). All this followed by a half hour long jungle battle mano a mano with spears, rocks and fists and hall deafening yells by both warriors. Very, very fierce and macho stuff I assure you all.

I shall not go into the other intricacies of the film and will leave it to the curiosity of potential/virgin viewers to find out for themselves. "Predator" is essentially one of the few action movies that truly lives up to its name and delivers the thrills and spills in no small amount and at breakneck speed. True connoisseurs of hard action.....YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED!!!!! 9.5/10