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January 13, 2005
Predator
Given that I never saw Predator when I was a kid, I don't have any sort of attachment to it that would cause me to defend it in front of sane movie-goers who claim that it is, more or less, a piece of shit. However, I've resumed my netflix account, and apparently, that was next on the list. It obviously doesn't merit much writing, but just a few points:
There is no story, and absolutely no suspense save for a few moments at the end when Arnold goes head to head; it's as if the filmmaker took a bet that he could make a scary film take place during the day, then lost the bet. I was amazed though, I figured there'd be at least some sort of government conspiracy or something behind it, but no - just a bunch of guys trying to survive in the jungle.
That said, the cinematography and acting were both surprisingly decent for what I figured would be trash. Sure, Arnold has his share of terrible lines, but I'd say that for a movie of its genre, the acting was fairly exceptional.
The soundtrack was goofy as all hell. Pay attention next time the film plays on late night TBS or whatever. It's like a bizarre mix of Indiana Jones, Back To The Future, Star Wars, and The Rock all thrown into one. I wouldn't be surprised if it was all made up of recycled scores.
Predator's vision is so lame. It'd suck to be a hunter and have to rely on heat. However, I will say that the reveal of the monster's face is satisfying, when most of the time such a thing is a disappointment in film.
And ultimately, this film would be totally forgettable if they hadn't put so much effort into the villain.
2 stars / 4 stars
Posted by nick at January 13, 2005 03:26 AM