Predator: Killer of Killers (2025)
Predator: Killer of Killers (2025), directed by Dan Trachtenberg and Joshua Wassung, is an animated anthology that broadens the Predator mythos through three intense, culturally rooted encounters across time: a Viking queen in 841 CE, samurai-era Japan, and a U.S. Navy pilot in 1942. Rather than focusing on a single storyline, it stitches these vignettes into a cohesive arc, building to a climactic showdown on the Predator home world.
Highlights
Stylish, painterly animation – Critics across the board praise its Arcane-inspired visuals and inventive Yautja tech design, calling it “sharp” and “painterly”. The animation adds identity and flair to each era.
Tight pacing and thrilling set-pieces – At around 90 minutes, the film avoids fat while delivering brisk action in each chapter. The narrative coalesces smoothly, earning it a “stream-it” recommendation.
Expanded lore with clever twists – Fans love the anthology format and the surprise cryostasis twist that unites characters across eras. It also hints at future crossover potential with the Alien universe.
Areas of Concern
Animation sometimes lacks ‘spark’ – While many hail the visuals, some critics find them slick but emotionally flat, speculating AI may have aided production.
Not as emotionally deep as live-action – The anthology’s briskness sometimes trades emotional resonance for spectacle, meaning characters don’t always have time to breathe.
🎙 Voice Cast
The talented voice ensemble includes Lindsay LaVanchy (Ursa), Louis Ozawa (Kenji & Kiyoshi), Rick González (Johnny Torres), and Michael Biehn (Vandy), delivering performances described as “enhancing the engaging storytelling”.
📝 Final Verdict
Predator: Killer of Killers succeeds as an ambitious, visually arresting, and lore-rich installment in the Predator universe. Its anthology format offers fresh settings and perspectives, with satisfying action and creative payoff for franchise fans. While the animation may miss some emotional nuance, and its brevity sacrifices depth, it's a compelling appetizer for the upcoming Predator: Badlands and a worthy stand-alone adventure.
