Where to start withPredator
2 versions · originally a film, 1987
Themes: Man vs. Nature, Elite Military, Survival, The Hunt, Technological Superiority.
Start with Predator (John McTiernan, 1987) — the film. Predator exists in 2 versions across media, beginning as a film in 1987; each is ranked below by what it does best.
The Predator franchise centers on the visceral, high-stakes hunt between technologically advanced extraterrestrial warriors and their formidable, often outmatched human prey.
✦ Most fans start here
Predator (1987)
The original movie
✦ Start herePredator
John McTiernan · Film · 1987
Predator (1987) stands as the definitive action masterpiece, offering a masterclass in escalating tension as elite commandos are systematically dismantled by an invisible, lethal hunter in the jungle.
2004 film
AVP: Alien vs. Predator
Paul W. S. Anderson · Film · 2004
AVP: Alien vs. Predator (2004) shifts the focus to a subterranean Antarctic setting, pitting the iconic hunter against the Xenomorph species in a high-concept, creature-feature spectacle for franchise completionists.
Common questions
What order should I watch Predator and AVP: Alien vs. Predator?
You should watch the original 1987 Predator movie first to establish the creature's origin and characteristics. After finishing that film, you can move on to AVP: Alien vs. Predator, which expands the lore by introducing a crossover conflict between two iconic cinematic monsters.
Is AVP: Alien vs. Predator a direct sequel to Predator?
No, AVP: Alien vs. Predator is not a direct narrative sequel to the 1987 Predator film. It functions as a standalone crossover entry that utilizes the creature designs and concepts established in the original Predator movie while incorporating elements from the Alien franchise.
How long is the original Predator movie?
The original Predator movie, released in 1987, has a total runtime of 107 minutes. This duration covers the entire mission of the special forces team in the jungle and their subsequent encounter with the extraterrestrial hunter.
Should I watch Predator before starting AVP: Alien vs. Predator?
Yes, watching the 1987 Predator movie first provides the necessary context for the creature's hunting tactics and technology. Understanding the foundation set by the original film makes the encounter presented in AVP: Alien vs. Predator more impactful for viewers familiar with the series.