Movie Review: 'Predators'

Seen on: July 7, 2010

The players: Director: Nimród Antal, Writers: Alex Litvak, Michael Finch, Cast: Adrien Brody, Topher Grace, Alice Braga, Danny Trejo, Walton Goggins

Facts of interest: Produced by Robert Rodriguez.

The plot: A group of human warriors are sent to a planet where they're hunted by a breed of alien Predators.

Our thoughts: Believe it or not, but I actually enjoyed “Predators,” the Robert Rodriguez-produced sci-fi horror flick that easily proves that someone out there has the ability to create something that’s way better than those shitty “Alien vs. Predator” disasters. I wouldn’t exactly call this a great film, but I would also be lying if I told you I didn’t enjoy the fast pace, loud action and solid cast.

“Predators” introduces us to Royce (Adrien Brody), a tough mercenary who’s parachuted right into the middle of a creepy jungle. He has no idea how he got there or why he woke up mid-air carrying a badass machine gun and tons of ammo, but he soon realizes he’s not the only one with a problem. Joining a group of elite warriors suffering the same fate, Royce quickly discovers he’s in for a battle of survival.

More specifically, Royce and his new companions have landed on a distant planet serving as the hunting ground for a clever but ruthless race of alien Predators. Together with Isabelle, Stans, Nikolai, Cuchillo, Hanzo, Mombaza and Edwin, Royce thus embarks on a perilous adventure to escape the Predators’ traps and find a way off the damn planet before it’s too late.

Despite the incredibly simplistic storyline that simply follows a group of humans trying to stay alive in a jungle ruled by nasty aliens, this new “Predators” reboot boasts enough suspense and action to keep things interesting throughout. The plot is utterly pointless, yes, but the diversity of the characters and the different ways they cope with and adapt to their new situation creates enough compelling conflict.

It is, however, primarily the cast that works very well in this film. Brody and co. all play convincing soldiers trying to make the best out of the mess they’re in, and even though they pretty much all get to play with some laughable dialogue, their convincing efforts definitely make it easier for us cinemagoers to at least care for what will happen to his individuals next.

“Predators” is filled with moronic shoot-outs and stunts, and while none of them go down as memorable, they’re intriguing and loud enough to push the plot forward without any unnecessary pauses. Boredom is not an issue at all in this movie, and considering we’re not treated to an innovative concept, that’s definitely worth something. It won’t make you scream like a little girl, but it definitely entertains.

Freaky quote: "This planet is a game reserve. And we're the game." - Adrien Brody, kicking butt...

The final word: Although the film’s ending disappointed me, I admit I had fun watching  “Predators.” It’s a nonsensical sci-fi action flick people won’t necessarily remember for long, but if you’re looking for some brainless big-screen fun this weekend, this one will certainly satisfy your cravings. And best of all: it’s not in 3D! Yay!

Article by Franck Tabouring