Predator: Killer of Killers

This movie had an interesting concept but as a full length film it disappoints. It feels like a longer episode of Love+Death+Robots and should probably have been reserved for that series instead. The plot is very rushed and considering this is supposed to be a first encounter with an alien everyone just seem to accept that they are now being hunted by monsters as if that's just the norm. There is no build up, it's just straight to the action. The characters seem interesting but just when you feel like you're getting to like them their story is over. There are also some weird sequences where you really have to suspend your disbelief, especially in a certain flight scene. Also one of the characters apparently knows how to use the Yautja tech even though he has never seen it before, almost as if he is actually a Predator fan who has seen all the movies beforehand. Considering these fighters have no prep time to deal with the very sudden Predator attacks they make Dutch from the first movie look like an amateur. The fights seem way too even between human and Predator and that makes the predators seem kinda weak despite some really cool and gory kills on their part. I don't know how much Trachtenberg was involved with this film but it has me slightly worried for the next installment Predator: Badlands.

Predator: Killer of Killers is a bold and refreshing entry in the Predator franchise, delivered through a stylish animated anthology format. Set across three distinct eras-a Viking battlefield, feudal Japan, and the skies of WWII-the film cleverly blends historical conflict with sci-fi terror. Each story stands strong on its own, with intense action, emotionally driven characters, and visually stunning animation that gives each setting its own identity. The fights aren't just about survival; they're personal, with each protagonist having something to prove or redeem, making their clash with the Yautja feel more meaningful.

What sets this film apart is how it balances spectacle with substance. While the Predator remains a deadly force, the real focus is on the humans and their internal struggles. The film also deserves credit for using native languages and unique visual techniques that elevate the storytelling. Though the final act tries to connect the stories in a big way and stumbles slightly in pacing, it still offers a satisfying payoff. Overall, this is a well-crafted addition to the franchise that doesn't try to copy the past but expands the universe in a creative and engaging way. A solid 7.5/10 from me.

Predator: Killer of Killers brings fresh animation and brutal, bloody action to the franchise - but the story lacks real substance.

The gritty, raw animation creates a strong atmosphere, backed by heavy textures and punchy sound design. When fists fly and blades clash, it feels impactful.

But the anthology format holds it back. Each part is short, and there's no time to build emotional weight. Especially in Part 1 (The Shield). However, the story itself feels generic and predictable.

The characters? Mostly flat archetypes. Character deaths feel hollow, and themes like teamwork were presented flat.

Part 1 (The Shield) - The fight against the Predator felt too smooth, as if every move had been carefully planned and choreographed.

Part 2 (The Sword) - stands out with its feudal Japan setting and a visually impressive fight, particularly due to the conflict between two brothers.

Part 3 (The Bullet) - Creatively staged and visually appealing. The Story reminds me a lot of classic movies.

Scores: The Shield - 5.5/10 The Sword - 7.5/10 The Bullet - 7.0/10 The Finale - 6.5/10

Overall : 6.5/10

A visual treat with raw energy - just don't expect depth.

From the animation, cinematography, choreography, score, messaging, and overall themes this movie does it all by sticking to a familiar formula and character tropes in a flawless way that makes for what unironically might be the best predator movie. The pacing is also very good for Its 80 minute run time. The film is so good at conveying what it's trying to be that for a quarter of the runtime there is little to no dialogue and yet you understand everything. Whether you're a fan of the predator franchise, wanting to get into it, or just want to turn on a gory, fun animated flick this film has it all!

I genuinely didn't know what to expect from this, turning a live action property into animation doesn't always work. That being said, this was absolutely amazing. I loved the animation style, the sound design, especially for the predator was excellent, the different settings, the voice acting was on point, the action absolutely top notch, as to be expected. Of course the storylines of the 3 vignettes were a bit lacking, some better than others, but who comes into a predator movie for the riveting story telling? This really was a legitimate predator movie, and did the titilur character justice. Very gory, great pacing, I highly recommend this.