10 Movies and Shows Similar to Predator (1987)

Description: Similar to 'Predator' (1987), 'Alien' is a sci-fi horror film that pits a group of humans against a deadly extraterrestrial creature. Both films emphasize survival, tension, and the fear of the unknown. The claustrophobic setting of 'Alien' contrasts with the jungle environment of 'Predator', but both use their settings to heighten suspense.

Fact: 'Alien' was directed by Ridley Scott and marked Sigourney Weaver's breakout role. The alien creature, designed by H.R. Giger, won an Academy Award for Best Visual Effects. The famous chestburster scene was so shocking that some audience members reportedly fainted during screenings.

Description: Both 'Blade Runner' and 'Predator' explore themes of humanity versus artificial or alien life. While 'Blade Runner' is more philosophical, both films feature protagonists hunting non-human entities in visually stunning, atmospheric settings.

Fact: Directed by Ridley Scott, 'Blade Runner' is based on Philip K. Dick's novel 'Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?'. The film initially underperformed but is now considered one of the greatest sci-fi films ever. Harrison Ford famously disliked the voiceover added to the theatrical cut.

Description: Like 'Predator', 'The Thing' is a horror film featuring a group of people hunted by a non-human entity. Both films explore themes of paranoia and trust, as the characters struggle to identify the threat among them. The practical effects in 'The Thing' are as groundbreaking as those in 'Predator'.

Fact: Directed by John Carpenter, 'The Thing' was initially a box office flop but later became a cult classic. The film's special effects were created by Rob Bottin, who was only 22 at the time. Kurt Russell's iconic beard was grown specifically for the role.

Description: James Cameron's 'Aliens' shares with 'Predator' a focus on a team of soldiers battling a deadly alien species. Both films blend action and horror, with strong, resourceful protagonists (Ripley and Dutch) leading the fight against seemingly unstoppable foes.

Fact: 'Aliens' won two Academy Awards for Best Sound Editing and Best Visual Effects. The film's iconic line 'Game over, man!' was improvised by Bill Paxton. Sigourney Weaver was nominated for an Academy Award for her role, rare for a sci-fi/action film.

Description: Released the same year as 'Predator', 'RoboCop' shares themes of man versus machine and features intense action sequences. Both films critique aspects of society while delivering thrilling, violent entertainment.

Fact: Directed by Paul Verhoeven, 'RoboCop' was initially given an X rating for violence. Peter Weller had to learn specific movements to mimic a robot's motions. The film's satirical commercials were inspired by real 1980s advertising.

Description: Another Arnold Schwarzenegger sci-fi/action film, 'Total Recall' shares with 'Predator' themes of survival and identity. Both films feature protagonists who must rely on their wits and strength to overcome extraordinary challenges.

Fact: Based on a Philip K. Dick short story, 'We Can Remember It for You Wholesale'. The film's special effects, including the famous three-breasted woman, were groundbreaking. The Mars scenes were shot in Mexico, with temperatures reaching 120°F (49°C).

Description: While not a creature feature, 'T2' shares with 'Predator' themes of an unstoppable force hunting humans, advanced weaponry, and a focus on survival. Both films feature Arnold Schwarzenegger in iconic roles, blending action with sci-fi elements.

Fact: 'T2' was the most expensive film ever made at the time, with a budget of $100 million. The liquid metal effects for the T-1000 were groundbreaking and won an Oscar for Best Visual Effects. Linda Hamilton underwent intense physical training for her role as Sarah Connor.

Description: Like 'Predator', 'Starship Troopers' features humans battling alien creatures in intense combat scenarios. Both films mix action with social commentary, though 'Starship Troopers' does so with more overt satire.

Fact: Directed by Paul Verhoeven, the film is a loose adaptation of Robert A. Heinlein's novel. The film's bugs were created using a mix of practical effects and CGI. Casper Van Dien performed many of his own stunts, including being set on fire.

Description: A direct sequel to 'Predator', 'Predators' follows a similar premise of humans being hunted by extraterrestrial warriors. The film expands on the Predator mythology and features multiple Predators, adding new layers to the original's concept.

Fact: Produced by Robert Rodriguez, who had wanted to make a 'Predator' sequel since the 1990s. The film features a cameo by Laurence Fishburne as a survivor of previous Predator hunts. It was shot in Hawaii, using some of the same locations as 'Lost'.

Description: Like 'Predator', 'Blade Runner 2049' features a hunter protagonist (K) and explores themes of identity and what it means to be human. Both films use their sci-fi settings to ask deeper questions while delivering action and suspense.

Fact: Directed by Denis Villeneuve, the film won two Academy Awards for Best Cinematography and Best Visual Effects. Ryan Gosling prepared for his role by reading 'Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?' and studying the original film. The production used practical effects whenever possible to maintain realism.