Probably the best "hunted by alien in jungle"movie. Ever

Rating: 9/10 (22 February 2005)

I suppose Predator can be divided in two parts. The first being a straight forward action movie as we follow The Governator as Dutch and his posse take out an entire wing of a guerrilla group in order to rescue some US hostages. I think this bit is very necessary as it gives you an idea of just how tough this band of guys are - they are the best of the best. This reinforces the shock of what happens next.
On the way out of the jungle his team are picked off one by one by a alien hunter. Despite being in a very earthy open environment, the sense of claustrophobia as the hunt begins is immense. Its a surprisingly clever film and doesn't get enough recognition I feel.
The movie is brilliantly paced, each member of the team has their own unique persona and although the story is as basic as you can get it always keeps you interested as the conflict between the unseen predator and this crack unit of soldiers is so absorbing. Its full of now classic lines and scenes, a stand out moment being when the team level half of Costa Rica with a minigun trying to draw blood from whatever is stalking them. How we laugh as Arnie cracks a "stick around" after pinning a goon to a door with his throwing knife. OK maybe not.
One of my all time favourites. I cant choose between this and T2 as my favourite Arnie flick. A sci fi classic in my opinion and one which was criminally overlooked in its day.