20th Century Studios’ Prey (2022) was released in physical media formats including 4k Blu-ray, Blu-ray, and DVD on Oct. 3, 2023. The film was previously available to stream with a subscription to Hulu (or Disney+ overseas), but was never available to purchase (at least in the US) in digital or disc formats. The 4k Blu-ray and Blu-ray editions come with exclusive bonus features and audio upgrades from the streaming presentation.
Prey was a home premiere, arriving on the Hulu platform in August, 2022 following a theatrical premiere at the Comic-Con International Independent Film Festival in July, 2022. The movie serves as a prequel to the 80s action film Predator (although there is no through-line with the exception of the Predator) and might be called a reboot if further movies are written about Naru, the main character played by Amber Midthunder.
The plot of this high concept film is even more simplistic than Predator, which is, to save the village, although, other themes are threaded into the narrative. It’s a coming-of-age film as Naru wants to prove herself to the tribe as more than just a gatherer. Her brother, Taabe, is rising as a powerful warrior leader in the tribe. And, there is the feminist ideal that girls are just as good as boys, among other subplots.
The cinematography and sound design make Prey an immersive experience where viewers feel connected to the tribe, even as a home theater experience. Of course, the story, characters, and action play well on any size screen (phone or what have you), but to truly appreciate Prey it needs to be seen as big as possible. And, to get the highest quality possible right now you either need the 4k Blu-ray or a premium download that can compete. The Dolby Atmos sound, however, is the real game changer for its immersive sound qualities. The Hulu version is only 5.1 channels, so Atmos adds another level of immersion that helps you appreciate what the director and sound designers had in mind with this highly recommended feature film. And, the exclusive bonus material makes Prey a must-own on 4k Blu-ray Disc.
Read the full review of Prey on 4k Blu-ray.
