Predator Killer of Killers Elevates Franchise with Animated Action

After a rocky decade for the Predator franchise, 20th Century Studios found new life with 2022’s Prey, a critically acclaimed film that revitalized the series with fresh storytelling and a grounded setting. Building on this momentum, the studio released Predator: Killer of Killers in 2025, an animated anthology that continues the franchise’s resurgence with bold creativity and action-packed narratives.

Co-directed by Dan Trachtenberg and Josh Wassung, Killer of Killers features three distinct stories set across different historical periods: 841 AD’s “The Shield,” 1629 Japan’s “The Sword,” and WWII’s North Pacific “The Bullet.” Each segment runs about 20 minutes, focusing on human characters who must outwit technologically superior Predators. This structure allows the film to explore diverse cultures and combat styles while maintaining a relentless pace.

Unlike Prey’s slow-building tension, Killer of Killers prioritizes visceral action and gore, delivering intense battles that showcase the Predators’ deadly prowess and the humans’ resourcefulness. Characters like Ursa, ninja Kenji, and pilot John Torres receive just enough backstory to engage viewers emotionally, balancing somber and humorous tones across the anthology.

Visually, the film impresses with a CG/3D animation style reminiscent of Arcane, combined with a frame rate that adds weight to each movement. This approach allows for dynamic fight choreography and detailed gore effects, enhancing the thrill of the Predator’s hunts. The animation also captures expansive vistas and scale, making it a visually rich experience that feels cinematic despite its streaming release.

Thematically, Killer of Killers continues the franchise’s tradition of portraying humans as capable adversaries rather than helpless victims. Each protagonist adapts quickly to the Predators’ tactics, using clever strategies to survive or gain the upper hand. This ongoing cat-and-mouse dynamic keeps the narrative engaging and honors the franchise’s roots while exploring new storytelling possibilities through animation.

Predator: Killer of Killers is a confident and self-assured addition to the franchise, proving that animation can successfully expand the Predator universe. Its blend of historical settings, intense action, and character-driven stories offers fans a fresh yet familiar experience. While it may not have the theatrical release it deserves, its impact on the franchise’s trajectory is undeniable.

For studios and creators looking to innovate within established franchises, Killer of Killers exemplifies how animation and anthology storytelling can revitalize a brand. By embracing new formats and diverse narratives, the Predator series continues to evolve, offering exciting opportunities for future projects.