The hunter becomes the prey

Rating: 8/10 (23 February 2014)

Predator" is a classic action/science fiction movie and a worthy rival of Alien". It's not as arty as Scott's movie , but it has other qualities. You could say it's a mix of "Aliens" and "Commando" . It's action movie , horror and science fiction in one. It's definitely one of the most popular Hollywood blockbusters in history. It could be very easily a dumb b-class action movie , but thankfully it was done by professionals and remains one of the best movies of 80's and best movies ever.
The original concept for this film originated as a joke. Someone said after watching "Rocky 4" that Stallone's next rival in "Rocky 5" will be an alien , because the defeated all human opponents . The mandibles of the predator were the idea of James Cameron ("Terminator"). Interesting thing – Jean Claude Van Damme ("Bloodsport") was cast to play Predator , but he was quickly fired and replaced by Kevin Peter Hall – experienced actor who played many monsters in his movie career thanks to his impressive height.
It's a true macho movie full of manly men and no love story in it. There is no substance here , just pure adrenaline. Who could forget great one liners such as "I don't have time to bleed" or "If it bleeds , then we can kill it" and . "Your one ugly motherf****r" .The heavy artillery is also cool - ultra-destructive Gatling gun or Predator's blades and shoulder gun. Add to that a great jungle that gives a true claustrophobic feel to the movie. It's probably the best jungle in the history of cinema. Funny thing – the whole movie was made in studio.
Most people remembers Arnold performance here with the classic and incredibly funny "Get to da choppa" and "Stick around" one-liners. The truth is this is one of Schwarzenegger best performances . His low-key performance works really well and he is definitely a man who could defeat an alien hunter. There is also great ensemble cast here that includes : Carl Weathers (Apollo Creed from "Rocky" series) , Bill Duke ("Commando") , Sonny Landham ("48 hours") , Shane Black (writer of "Lethal weapon" series) , Jesse Ventura (" The Running man") and the Predator itself – Kevin Peter Hall ( "Harry and the Hendersons"). Watch out near the end of the movie – you will see Kevin Peter Hall without the costume (he plays a black helicopter pilot at the end of movie).
Director John McTieran directs the movie with astonishing suspense and brilliant pacing , something he also shows in "Die hard". Alan Silvestri's legendary musical score also helps to keep the tension and makes sure that the audience are on the edge of their seats at all times. . The jungle as I've already mentioned is a very original and great setting for the movie.
The Predator's unmasked face is a real accomplishment in make-up effects , just like the whole invisibility trick rightfully deserved the Oscar nomination for best visual effects. The Predator itself is a fascinating creature, scary and full of mystery. A worthy opponent of Alien indeed.
The only bad thing is the fact that the movie never really explains what Predator was doing in the jungle and we didn't get to see Predator's ship . The ending also leaves much to be desired in terms of believability , but that's a minor issue.
"Predator" is a simple movie with simple plot done in wonderful way. It holds very well on repeated viewings . It has likable heroes , great villain , catch dialogues , memorable scenes and overall it's a top notch entertainment. I give it 8/10.