When Does Predator Come Out: A Status and Lineup Guide
The Predator franchise began with the 1987 release of Predator, starring Arnold Schwarzenegger. Since then, multiple sequels, reboots, and spinoffs have expanded the sci-fi hunter universe. This guide covers original and wider continuity release dates, how movies connect, and how you can watch the series in a durable, evergreen way.
Original 1987 Predator Film
Key Release and Milestone Dates
Understanding the first film sets the baseline for the broader series timeline.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| U.S. Theatrical Release | June 12, 1987 | Studio/Box Office Record |
| Director | John McTiernan | Credits/Verified Production Data |
| Lead Cast | Arnold Schwarzenegger, Carl Weathers, Jesse Ventura | Cast Listing |
| Runtime | 107 minutes | MPAA/Studio Credits |
| MPAA Rating | R | MPAA |
Predator (1987) follows an elite U.S. military team hunted by an advanced alien warrior in a Central American jungle. It was rated R and runs about 1 hour 47 minutes. Directed by John McTiernan, the film established the creature design and jungle-versus-soldier concept that later entries would reinterpret rather than strictly continue.
Direct Sequels and Standalone Sequels
After the original, the series expanded through sequels, reboots, and crossovers. Below is a durable lineup of major releases and their narrative roles.
- Predator 2 (1990) — Sequel set in 1997 Los Angeles, following a police team. Released in 1990; shifts focus to urban setting and introduces different Predator tech and culture.
- Predators (2010) — A reboot that gathers multiple humans from different eras on an alien game reserve planet. Released in 2010.
- The Predator (2018) — A sci-fi horror reboot centered on a new Predator breed and a genetic experiment. Released in 2018.
- Prey (2022) — A prequel set in the Comanche Nation three centuries ago, focusing on a young female hunter. Released in 2022 via Hulu; acclaimed for fresh perspective and representation.
Crossover and Related Films
The Alien vs. Predator (AvP) series merges the Predator universe with the Alien franchise. These entries are useful for understanding expanded universe timelines.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Alien vs. Predator (AvP) | 2004 | Studio Release |
| AvP: Requiem | 2007 | Studio Release |
| Crossover Continuity | Parallel/Shared multiverse-like branding; not direct narrative continuation of original Predator timeline | Studio/Production Notes |
AvP (2004) and AvP: Requiem (2007) are crossover films that place Predators and Aliens in conflict. They exist in a separate continuity from the 1987 original but remain part of the broader franchise branding.
How to Watch in Order
Choose between release order and story chronology depending on your preference for continuity or creative evolution.
Recommended Chronological Order
- Predator (1987) — Establishes core concept and tone.
- Predator 2 (1990) — Urban continuation with new setting.
- Prey (2022) — Fresh prequel with distinct cultural context.
- Predators (2010) — Resets to alien game premise and new ensemble cast.
- The Predator (2018) — Reboot with genetic experiment twist.
- Alien vs. Predator (2004) and AvP: Requiem (2007) — Optional crossover entries if you want to explore shared universe experiments.
Simple Main-Series Path
If you want a trimmed list focused on core Predator continuity (excluding AvP):
- Predator (1987)
- Predator 2 (1990)
- Predators (2010)
- The Predator (2018)
- Prey (2022)
Streaming and Purchase Options
Availability varies by region and changes over time, but these platforms commonly host the series.
- Streaming: Often available on major subscription services or digital storefronts such as Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, Google Play, and Vudu.
- Purchase/Rent: Digital retailers let you buy or rent individual titles in HD or 4K where supported.
- Physical Media: Blu-ray and 4K UHD collections preserve original effects and authorized remasters.
Key Takeaways
- The original Predator launched in 1987 and remains a cornerstone of sci-fi action.
- Multiple sequels, reboots, and spinoffs offer different tones, settings, and creature designs.
- Crossover films with Alien (AvP) share a universe separate from the core Predator line.
- You can watch chronologically for narrative flow or by release date to see franchise evolution.
- Use current streaming guides or physical media to access the series reliably.
For an evergreen viewing plan, start with the original 1987 film and then explore sequels and new entries based on the tone and setting you prefer. This approach keeps your experience durable, fact-focused, and aligned with how the franchise is officially structured.