Where to start
Predator
2 versions · originally a film, 1987
Themes: Man vs. Nature, Elite Military, Survival, The Hunt, Technological Superiority.
The Predator franchise centers on the visceral tension of elite human survivors trapped in a lethal game against an advanced extraterrestrial hunter.
✦ Most fans start here
Predator (1987)
The original movie
✦ Start herePredator
John McTiernan · Film · 1987
Predator (1987) serves as the definitive gold standard for the genre, offering a masterclass in atmospheric jungle tension, iconic practical effects, and high-stakes action for any fan of classic cinema.
2004 film
AVP: Alien vs. Predator
Paul W. S. Anderson · Film · 2004
AVP: Alien vs. Predator (2004) shifts the focus to an Antarctic archaeological discovery, providing a crossover spectacle that leans into creature-feature tropes and industrial sci-fi environments for those seeking expanded lore.
Common questions
Is Predator (1987) the first movie in the franchise?
Yes, Predator (1987) is the original film that introduced the extraterrestrial hunter. It serves as the foundation for the entire franchise and remains the starting point for viewers interested in the series before moving on to later installments like AVP: Alien vs. Predator.
Should I watch Predator (1987) before AVP: Alien vs. Predator?
It is recommended to watch Predator (1987) first. Understanding the origin and capabilities of the creature in the original film provides necessary context for the crossover events depicted in AVP: Alien vs. Predator, which features both the Predator and the Alien species.
Is AVP: Alien vs. Predator a direct sequel to Predator (1987)?
AVP: Alien vs. Predator is not a direct narrative sequel to Predator (1987). While it features the same creature species established in the 1987 film, it functions as a crossover event that combines the lore of two distinct science fiction franchises into a new storyline.
How does AVP: Alien vs. Predator relate to the original Predator movie?
AVP: Alien vs. Predator builds upon the creature design and hunting mythology established in Predator (1987). It places the iconic hunters into a new scenario involving the Alien species, allowing viewers to see how the established Predator behavior translates into a different conflict.