snoozejonc

Predator is officially classified as a sci-fi action horror, but I like to describe it as a macho classic.

The memorable opening credit sequence sets the tone perfectly for a film laden with testosterone. You know the characters will swagger with over-the-top masculinity when you see the chopper landing in time with Alan Silvestri's pulsating theme.

From there, it mixes a simple but intense plot with great action, character interaction and memorable art design.

The action hits hard, holding up incredibly well by today's standard, with the sadistic tone of many an '80s action ride with a high body count. The writers and filmmakers want to have their cake and eat it by portraying the protagonists as a "rescue team" uncomfortable in their current mission. However, I sense a degree of pleasure taken in creating sequences with pumped-up super-soldiers dispatching enemies using stylised violence.

As the Predator gets more involved, the direction and tone of the movie change. I saw it for the first time in 1988 and remember fearing the unknown aspects of it as it stalks and hunts numerous victims. Much like Jaws, it sensibly keeps the monster hidden during important moments. As more is revealed, it is suitably intimidating and horrific, especially for an eight-year-old viewer.

Everything builds to an exciting conclusion, with some of cinema's most memorable visual storytelling. I admire the atmosphere, iconic creature design, suspense, and, despite its focus on violence, the key moments involve characters thinking around obstacles.

The interaction between characters throughout the film is entertaining. It is loaded with macho banter that is comical in certain moments and forever quotable, especially for Generation X. All actors do great work, portraying distinct characters. The standout for me is Carl Weathers, but all entertain.

Arnold Schwarzenegger is solid in the lead and used sensibly by the director by not overdoing his dialogue and pushing him for too much emotion. He effectively portrays Dutch as a tough soldier, a strong leader, and a sympathetic human being.

For me, it is a 9.5/10, but I round upwards.

Predator 2 is a good example of the macho-action movies prevalent during the 80s and 90s.

The plot is thin, but it offers a great expansion of the franchise against a different backdrop from the original movie. Outside of an official war zone, it feels plausible that a Predator would choose to operate in this type of environment. At the time, it was a damning indictment of L. A. gang warfare, in the same mould as Escape From New York. The opening "urban jungle" shot is excellent, and the first action sequence sets the scene and characters well.

That said, it is no social commentary. The main focus is the blood, guts, action and horror. These aspects are done well and provide the main spectacle. Certain moments contain some well-worked suspense and atmosphere. I admire the subway and slaughterhouse scenes in particular, and the final confrontation is memorable. Although the slaughterhouse scene is a bit too liberally ripped from Aliens in some moments.

The Predator design and effects are as good as the original, but with the mystery of the unknown gone, it does not carry the same threat. You know the creature can be killed by an action hero, so you just wait for it to happen again.

Danny Glover leads it exceptionally well, offering the perfect blend of strength, vulnerability and general humanity. He is supported very well by Bill Paxton, Gary Busey, and María Conchita Alonso.

Road Trip is another strong sketch with good humour and well observed family interaction.

Long car journeys took on a whole new meaning when I became a father of two daughters. A lot of this is familiar, particularly the fight against boredom, inconvenient toilet breaks, and resistance to using the tablet as a means of distraction.

Bandit's obsession with the nomads which is founded in good reason is very amusing. I know I would have exactly the same attitude.

As ever it all builds to a positive moment which is nice. I do however chuckle at the thought of them camped next to the toilet block and having to listen to the girls complain.