Since its explosive debut in 1987, the Predator franchise has experienced extreme highs and frustrating lows. What began as a lean, terrifying sci-fi action classic later became weighed down by unnecessary crossovers, weak writing, and tonal confusion. However, recent entries have shown that the franchise still has teeth when handled correctly.
This ranking considers story quality, tension, Predator portrayal, rewatch value, and overall impact.
8. The Predator (2018)
Director: Shane Black
The Predator is widely considered the franchise’s lowest point — and for good reason.
What Went Wrong:
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Inconsistent tone (awkward comedy mixed with horror)
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Weak character development
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Overcomplicated “super Predator” mythology
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Underwhelming action
While Shane Black helped write the original Predator, this sequel feels unfocused and confused about what kind of movie it wants to be.
Verdict:
A messy reboot that misunderstands the franchise’s appeal.
7. Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem (2007)
This sequel doubles down on everything that didn’t work in the first crossover.
Problems:
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Extremely dark lighting (often impossible to see action)
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Thin plot and forgettable characters
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Excessive gore without tension
The R-rating promised intensity but delivered chaos instead.
Verdict:
More violent than fun — and almost entirely forgettable.
6. Alien vs. Predator (2004)
The idea of Predators fighting Xenomorphs was exciting — until execution fell short.
What Worked:
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Cool creature designs
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Decent action set pieces
What Didn’t:
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PG-13 rating reduced impact
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Shallow characters
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Limited suspense
It’s not awful, but it never reaches its potential.
Verdict:
Fun in concept, disappointing in execution.
5. Predator 2 (1990)
Often unfairly criticized, Predator 2 deserves more respect.
Strengths:
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Bold urban setting
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Expands Predator lore
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Memorable subway and rooftop scenes
Danny Glover brings intensity, though the film lacks the tight suspense of the original.
Verdict:
Flawed but ambitious
4. Predators (2010)
A clever soft reboot that brings the franchise back to basics.
Why It Works:
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Isolated survival setting
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Group of dangerous humans as prey
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Return to suspense-driven storytelling
Adrien Brody is surprisingly effective, and the film respects Predator mythology without overexplaining it.
Verdict:
A solid, underrated entry that understands the formula.
3. Predator: Badlands (2025)
A brutal, atmospheric reinvention that strips the franchise down to survival.
Why It Stands Out:
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Harsh badlands setting
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Tactical, terrifying Predator
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Minimal dialogue, maximum tension
It prioritizes suspense and realism over spectacle, making it one of the franchise’s most intense films.
Verdict:
A confident modern Predator film that proves less is more.
2. Prey (2022)
Prey was the franchise’s biggest surprise in decades.
Why It’s Great:
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Fresh historical setting
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Strong, intelligent protagonist
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Focused survival narrative
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Respect for Predator mystique
By setting the story in the past, Prey restored the Predator’s menace and intelligence.
Verdict:
A near-perfect revival that honors the original.
1. Predator (1987)
Director: John McTiernan
The original Predator remains unmatched.
Why It Still Tops
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Perfect pacing
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Iconic score
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Legendary creature design
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Unforgettable suspense
What begins as a macho action movie slowly transforms into pure sci-fi horror. The reveal of the Predator remains one of cinema’s most effective monster introductions.
Verdict:
A timeless classic and one of the greatest sci-fi action films ever made.
Final Thoughts
The Predator franchise thrives when it focuses on:
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Simplicity
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Tension
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Survival
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Mystery
