The Predator franchise is about to reach a whole new level with the upcoming release of Predator: Killer of Killers, set to premiere on June 6, 2025, on Hulu. Directed by Dan Trachtenberg and Josh Wassung, the film arrives as a bold expansion of the Yautja universe, delivering exactly what longtime fans have dreamed of: a bloody deep dive into Predator history across centuries of epic battles.
The Legacy of Predator Gets a Powerful Boost
Since the iconic 1987 original featuring Arnold Schwarzenegger battling an alien menace in the jungle, the Predator saga has become a cornerstone of sci-fi action. Despite ups and downs over the years, the franchise found new energy with Prey (2022), which brought fans back in time to witness the Yautja’s first encounter with humans. Now, Predator: Killer of Killers promises to take that concept to an entirely new level.
A Blood-Soaked Anthology Through Time
Inspired by anthologies like Love, Death & Robots and Star Wars: Visions, Predator: Killer of Killers will be split into three distinct segments, each set in a different historical period. This structure not only offers aesthetic and narrative variety but also expands the concept of Predators as relentless hunters tracking down the fiercest warriors throughout human history.
- Viking Era: A female warrior embarks on a revenge mission with her son, only to discover their enemy is not of this world.
- Feudal Japan: A samurai and his ninja brother face off, only to have their duel interrupted by a Yautja — the kind of fantasy battle fans have dreamed of since Predators (2010).
- World War II: A lone pilot battles what he thinks is a “gremlin” sabotaging his aircraft — until he realizes he’s being hunted by something far more deadly.
A Long-Awaited Fan Dream Realized
One of the most exciting aspects for fans is the return of Louis Ozawa, who played Hanzo in Predators (2010). His appearance in the new movie is already sparking theories about a possible connection between the stories. That iconic katana swordfight scene, still one of the franchise’s most beloved moments, may now receive a worthy narrative continuation — or at least a strong thematic callback.
Dan Trachtenberg, who also directed Prey, has expressed deep passion for the project. He revealed that he was working on both Predator: Killer of Killers and Predator: Badlands at the same time — a challenging feat involving remote coordination and intense production schedules in New Zealand. Despite the chaos, he described the process as “fun, hard R animated carnage,” showing his genuine excitement to push the franchise forward in bold new ways.
Endless Expansion Opportunities
More than just a film, Predator: Killer of Killers could serve as a blueprint for the franchise’s future. If the movie is well-received, there’s virtually no limit to the types of stories that could be told: imagine a Predator in ancient Rome battling gladiators, or facing off against bounty hunters in the Wild West, or even fighting crusaders in medieval Europe.
This format unlocks enormous creative potential, allowing brutal, stylish, and visually rich storytelling that gives the franchise a much-needed reinvention. The Yautja are no longer just alien hunters attacking modern soldiers — they’re legends that have haunted humanity’s past for centuries.
Tying in with Prey and Expanding the Predator Lore
At the end of Prey, Naru’s victory hinted at the return of more Yautja. Killer of Killers picks up this thread and expands it: the Predators are drawn to Earth not by accident, but because of the challenge it offers. As human warfare evolves, we become more attractive targets for the ultimate hunters in the galaxy.
The franchise has always spotlighted clashes between unmatched forces. From Dutch battling a Predator in the jungle, to a young woman with a bow defeating a hunter in the wilderness, these stories have always been about human resilience. By exploring different time periods, Killer of Killers keeps this core theme alive while adding mythological depth.
Adult Animation, Brutal Aesthetics
Unlike previous Predator films, Killer of Killers is a fully animated project, allowing for complete visual freedom. Expect stylized, intense violence, striking world-building, and breathtaking fight choreography tailored to each era. The animation format removes the constraints of practical effects or live-action budgets, making room for bold artistic choices.
For fans who’ve always dreamed of seeing a samurai duel a Predator without limitations — this is your moment.
Sky-High Hype for the Release
Scheduled to premiere on June 6, 2025, Predator: Killer of Killers is already one of the most anticipated releases of the year. With a passionate creative team, daring storytelling, and a unique vision for the franchise, the film is set to be a milestone entry in the Predator universe.
If successful, it could not only satisfy longtime fans but also bring new audiences into the fold. It’s the kind of project that can turn a legacy into a legend.