The Predator
The Predator Review: Story, Cast, Rating & Final Verdict
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Movie Overview: The Predator
| Movie | The Predator |
| Release Year | 2018 |
| Director | Shane Black |
| Genre | Science Fiction / Action / Thriller |
| Runtime | 107 minutes (1h 47m) |
| Language | EN |
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is The Predator (2018) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 5.6/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Science Fiction.
Cast & Character Study
The performances in The Predator are led by Boyd Holbrook . The supporting cast, including Trevante Rhodes and Sterling K. Brown , provides the necessary layers to the central narrative.
movieMx Verdict: Is it Worth Your Time?
What Works in the Movie
While The Predator does not fully realize its potential, it still contains moments that may appeal to viewers who enjoy Science Fiction films.
- Interesting concept or premise
- Some entertaining scenes
- Supporting cast delivers occasional highlights
What Doesn't Work
Despite its strengths, The Predator has a few issues that may affect the overall viewing experience, particularly in terms of pacing and narrative consistency.
- Uneven pacing in certain parts of the film
- Some predictable plot developments
- May not appeal to audiences outside the Science Fiction fanbase
Story & Plot Summary: The Predator
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2018, The Predator is a Science Fiction, Action, Thriller film directed by Shane Black, written by Fred Dekker. The narrative explores futuristic concepts and technological possibilities while examining humanity. As part of the Predator Collection, it provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Boyd Holbrook as Quinn McKenna.
Story Breakdown
The title presents its narrative with careful attention to pacing and character development. When a young boy accidentally triggers the universe's most lethal hunters' return to Earth, only a ragtag crew of ex-soldiers and a disgruntled scientist can prevent the end of the human race. The story unfolds naturally, allowing viewers to become invested in the outcome while maintaining engagement throughout.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The Predator establishes its world and central conflict efficiently, with Shane Black introducing Boyd Holbrook as Quinn McKenna in the opening act, and over its 107-minute runtime, the pacing proves deliberate.
- Character Arc: Character development is present but somewhat formulaic, following familiar patterns without adding fresh perspectives to the genre.
- Climax & Resolution: The climax brings the narrative threads together, with Boyd Holbrook's arc reaching resolution. Shane Black's handling of the finale falls somewhat short of expectations.
Thematic Depth
The sci-fi elements serve as a lens to examine contemporary issues such as technology's impact on humanity, the nature of consciousness, and our place in the universe.
What Works & What Doesn't
✅ Strengths
- Attempts to bring fresh ideas to the genre
- Some memorable individual scenes or performances
⚠️ Weaknesses
- Pacing issues that affect narrative flow
- Underdeveloped characters or predictable plot points
- Reliance on genre clichés without adding fresh perspective
Ending Explained: The Predator
The Predator Ending Explained: Directed by Shane Black, The Predator attempts to bring together the film’s narrative threads. The ending highlights the core science fiction themes developed throughout the film.
The final twist encourages viewers to reconsider earlier moments in the story, particularly in scenes involving Boyd Holbrook. The interpretation of the ending may vary among viewers.
Key Elements of the Ending
- Narrative Resolution: The story resolves its primary conflict while leaving room for interpretation.
- Character Development: Character motivations become clearer by the final scenes.
- Thematic Message: The ending reinforces the science fiction themes introduced earlier in the film.
The final moments of The Predator reflect the creative choices of the filmmakers and align with the tone of the narrative.
Who Should Watch The Predator?
Age Advisory: Rated R — not suitable for younger viewers.
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Science Fiction films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Box Office Collection: The Predator
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $88.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $160.5M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
The Predator Budget
The estimated production budget for The Predator is $88.0M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
Where to Watch The Predator Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
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Google Play Movies
YouTube🏷️ Buy on
Google Play MoviesYouTubeThe Predator Parents Guide & Age Rating
2018 AdvisoryWondering about The Predator age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of The Predator (2018) is 107 minutes (1h 47m). Directed by Shane Black, the film runs for 107 minutes in its complete theatrical version.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 5.6/10, and global performance metrics, The Predator is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 2018 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Predator worth watching?
The Predator is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Science Fiction movies. It has a verified rating of 5.6/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find The Predator parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for The Predator identifies it as R. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the runtime of The Predator (2018)?
The runtime of The Predator (2018) is 107 minutes (approximately 1h 47m).
movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
Useful Links
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