10 Movies and Shows Similar to Prey (2024)

Description: John Carpenter's 'The Thing' shares with 'Prey' a sense of isolation and paranoia, as characters face an inhuman threat in a remote setting. Both films excel in building tension and feature protagonists who must use their intelligence to survive. The practical effects and creature designs in 'The Thing' set a high bar for horror, much like 'Prey's' emphasis on visceral action.

Fact: 'The Thing' was a box office disappointment upon release but has since become a cult classic. The film's groundbreaking special effects were created by Rob Bottin, who was only 22 at the time. Kurt Russell's performance as MacReady is considered one of his best, with his beard and hat becoming iconic.

Description: The original 'Predator' is the foundation for 'Prey', sharing the central theme of a skilled hunter facing off against the ultimate predator. Both films highlight the clash between human ingenuity and alien technology, with intense action sequences and a focus on survival in the wilderness. 'Prey' can be seen as a spiritual successor, exploring similar themes in a different historical setting.

Fact: 'Predator' was initially conceived as a vehicle for Arnold Schwarzenegger after the success of 'Commando'. The Predator's design was created by special effects artist Stan Winston, who also worked on 'Aliens' and 'Terminator'. The film's famous jungle scenes were shot in the Mexican rainforest, where cast and crew endured extreme heat and humidity.

Description: 'Predator 2' expands the franchise's setting to an urban environment, much like how 'Prey' explores a different time period. Both films delve into the Predator's culture and hunting rituals, offering new perspectives on the alien hunters. The sequel's grittier tone and exploration of the Predator's honor code resonate with 'Prey's' thematic depth.

Fact: 'Predator 2' was the first film to hint at the connection between the Predator and Alien franchises, with an Alien skull appearing in the Predator's ship. Danny Glover took on the lead role, bringing a different energy compared to Arnold Schwarzenegger's performance. The film's depiction of a futuristic, crime-ridden Los Angeles was influenced by the social climate of the late 1980s.

Description: 'The Descent' and 'Prey' both feature groups of individuals trapped in a fight for survival against inhuman predators. The claustrophobic setting of the caves in 'The Descent' amplifies the terror, much like the wilderness in 'Prey'. Both films also highlight the physical and psychological toll of the survival ordeal, with strong female characters at the forefront.

Fact: 'The Descent' was filmed in a real cave system, adding to the authenticity of the setting. The film's original UK ending is darker than the US release, which was altered for a more hopeful conclusion. Director Neil Marshall drew inspiration from his love of horror and adventure films, creating a unique blend of both genres.

Description: The 2011 prequel to 'The Thing' mirrors 'Prey' in its period setting and focus on a group facing an extraterrestrial menace. Both films explore themes of trust and survival, with the alien threat serving as a catalyst for human drama. The prequel's attempt to honor the original while adding new elements parallels 'Prey's' approach to the Predator franchise.

Fact: The 2011 film was originally intended to include more practical effects, but studio demands led to increased CGI. It directly connects to the 1982 film, explaining the events that led to the Norwegian camp's discovery. Mary Elizabeth Winstead stars as the lead, bringing a strong female presence similar to 'Prey's' Naru.

Description: The sequel to 'The Descent' continues the survival horror theme, much like 'Prey's' continuation of the Predator saga. Both films ramp up the intensity and stakes, with characters forced to confront their fears in hostile environments. The sequel's exploration of trauma and resilience echoes 'Prey's' focus on the protagonist's growth through adversity.

Fact: 'The Descent: Part 2' was shot back-to-back with the first film but released later due to studio decisions. The film brings back Sarah, the sole survivor of the first movie, further exploring her psychological state. Despite mixed reviews, the sequel maintains the original's claustrophobic tension and gruesome creature effects.

Description: 'Predators' shares with 'Prey' the core concept of humans being hunted by Predators in a hostile environment. Both films focus on a group of individuals forced to rely on their wits and combat skills to survive. The 2010 film's setting on an alien planet mirrors the primal survival aspects that 'Prey' emphasizes, albeit in a different context.

Fact: 'Predators' was produced by Robert Rodriguez and directed by Nimród Antal. The film pays homage to the original 'Predator' by including a character similar to Dutch (Arnold Schwarzenegger's role). It features Adrien Brody in a rare action-hero role, a departure from his usual dramatic performances.

Description: 'Annihilation' and 'Prey' both feature strong female leads confronting otherworldly threats in mysterious environments. The films share a thematic focus on transformation and survival, with stunning visuals that enhance the eerie atmosphere. 'Annihilation's' sci-fi horror elements and psychological depth align with 'Prey's' blend of action and suspense.

Fact: 'Annihilation' is based on the novel by Jeff VanderMeer, the first in the Southern Reach Trilogy. The film's climax features a surreal sequence with a mutated bear, one of the most terrifying scenes in recent horror. Director Alex Garland opted for a more ambiguous ending than the book, leaving much to interpretation.

Description: Similar to 'Prey' (2024), 'The Predator' is part of the same franchise, featuring the iconic extraterrestrial hunters. Both films explore themes of survival against a technologically superior foe, with a strong emphasis on action and suspense. The 2018 installment, like 'Prey', attempts to expand the lore of the Predators, introducing new elements to their mythology.

Fact: 'The Predator' was directed by Shane Black, who also appeared in the original 1987 'Predator' film. The movie features a diverse cast, including a young boy with autism who plays a crucial role in understanding the Predator's technology. The film was initially intended to be darker in tone but underwent significant reshoots to lighten its mood.

Description: Like 'Prey', 'A Quiet Place' revolves around survival against deadly creatures with heightened senses. Both films emphasize the protagonists' resourcefulness and the importance of understanding their enemy's weaknesses. The tension and minimal dialogue in 'A Quiet Place' create a similar immersive experience to 'Prey's' intense action sequences.

Fact: 'A Quiet Place' was directed by John Krasinski, who also co-wrote and stars in the film. The movie's sound design plays a crucial role, with the characters' silence heightening the suspense. Emily Blunt, Krasinski's real-life wife, delivered a standout performance, particularly in the childbirth scene.