Review of Prey 2022: A Critique of the Science Fiction Monster Movie
Introduction
Recently, I viewed the movie Prey 2022 on Hulu. This film, which came out around a year ago, has received mixed reviews. While some viewers might find it an interesting and illuminating piece, others might dismiss it as a poorly structured and culturally insensitive story. This review aims to dissect the film and provide insights into its strengths and weaknesses.
The Film's Plot and Structure
Prey 2022 follows the story of a 16-year-old indigenous girl named Amara who fights against an 8-foot-tall alien, known as the Predator. While it's framed as a coming-of-age and survival story, the plot takes a significant detour into woke sensibilities and feminist restructurings. The movie attempts to re-establish the Predator franchise, but many viewers, like me, find the concept deeply flawed.
Problems with the Plot
The first issue that stands out is the premise itself—the stereotypes and cultural misrepresentations. For instance, the movie sets up a narrative of a 5-foot tall indigenous girl fighting a Comanche patriarchy in the 18th century to become a warrior chief by killing a giant alien with an axe and a spear. This setup is, as Amara's world would suggest, absurd given the historical context. It raises questions about how responsibly a studio would green-light such a project, especially for 65 million dollars.
Additionally, the character's backstory involves her beating up multiple French buffalo hunters single-handedly before being captured, only to emerge unscathed after a showdown with the Predator. This part of the plot seems to prioritize action and spectacle over realism, which detracts from the overall narrative integrity.
Re-establishment of the Predator Series
The film's attempt to re-establish the Predator franchise is also questionable. Traditionally, the Predator has been a nearly invincible and formidable creature that defies opponents. However, in this reboot, a 16-year-old girl defeats the Predator using a spear and an axe. This sends a contradictory message about the power dynamics within the movie’s narrative world. It undermines the traditional strength and mystery around the Predator, potentially diluting the franchise's appeal for fans of the original films.
Cultural Sensitivity and Authenticity
The use of the Comanche language and including a character like a brother on horseback adds a layer of authenticity, but these elements are ultimately hollow and performative. The movie fails to engage with or respect Comanche or broader Native American traditions. Instead, it constructs a scenario that is more interested in political correctness and modern anthropocentric narratives than genuine cultural representation.
Conclusion
While Prey 2022 is watchable, it is undoubtedly a product of modern woke politics that can be both compelling and frustrating. If you are interested in seeing a movie that challenges traditional power structures and cultural norms, this could be the film for you. However, it is not without its flaws and contradictions. For those looking for a faithful re-imagining of the Predator franchise or a more historically accurate portrayal of indigenous cultures, Prey 2022 might fall short.
Overall, Prey 2022 is a complex film that navigates themes of gender, culture, and power. Its benefits are overshadowed by significant narrative and cultural missteps, making it a mixed bag for both fans of the franchise and viewers interested in social commentary.