The Predator is a 2018 American science fiction action film directed by Shane Black and written by Black and Fred Dekker.
It is the fourth installment in the Predator film series, set between the events of Predator 2 (1990) and Predators (2010). The film stars Boyd Holbrook, Trevante Rhodes, Jacob Tremblay, Keegan-Michael Key, Olivia Munn, Thomas Jane, Alfie Allen, Yvonne Strahovski, and Sterling K. Brown.
The story follows a group of PTSD-afflicted soldiers and a scientist who must team up to fight off an invading pair of Predators and discover their plans for mankind. When a young boy accidentally triggers the Predators' return to Earth, the ragtag crew must prevent the end of the human race.
The Predator had its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 6, 2018 and was theatrically released in the United States on September 14, 2018 by 20th Century Fox. The film received mixed reviews from critics, who praised the characters and relationships but felt the final act fell apart. It grossed $160.5 million worldwide against an $88 million budget.
Despite its flaws, The Predator offers gory action, nostalgic nods to the 80s origins of the franchise, and some moments of character selflessness. However, it also features excessive graphic violence, foul language, and politically correct moments that detract from the overall experience. The film serves as an uneven but still entertaining addition to the Predator series for fans willing to overlook its shortcomings