Classical Visions #3 - Predator

 Predator is a 1987 American science fiction action film directed by John McTiernan, starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, Carl Weathers, Jesse Ventura, and Kevin Peter Hall. It was distributed by 20th Century Fox. The story follows an elite special forces team, led by 'Dutch' (Arnold Schwarzenegger), on a mission to rescue hostages from guerrilla territory in Central America.

Unbeknownst to the group, they are being hunted by a technologically advanced form of extraterrestrial life, the Predator. Predator was scripted by Jim and John Thomas in 1985, under the working title of Hunter. Filming began in April 1986 and creature effects were devised by Stan Winston.

The film's budget was around $15 million. Released in the United States on June 12, 1987, it grossed $98,267,558. Initial critical reaction to Predator was mixed, with criticism focusing on the thin plot. However, in subsequent years critics' attitudes toward the film warmed, and it has appeared on a number of "best of" lists. Two sequels, Predator 2 (1990) and Predators (2010), as well as two crossover films with the Alien franchise, Alien vs. Predator (2004) and Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem (2007), have been produced.

One of the best movies ever made to me, such a massive and lasting impact on me. I still have fond memories seeing it for the first time in the early 90's and was totally mesmerized by the story and concept of the movie. Similar to southern comfort, I like the fact the whole movie is in the jungle and the use of the effects is limited (movies these days too much fx overkill) after many viewings it never gets tired or old. The suspense and atmosphere will pull you in and leave you wanting more. To be honest this is the only predator movie you need to see.