The Predator series explores humanity's deadliest hunters across multiple timelines and tones. Understanding how many movies are in the Predator series helps new viewers and long time fans navigate the evolving saga of iconic alien franchises.
Each installment adds distinct layers to the mythology, from jungle warfare to modern urban hunts. This guide breaks down the core releases, timelines, and what defines every mainline film in the Predator collection.
Complete Film Timeline Overview
The table below captures the key entries that answer how many movies are in the Predator series, including year, title, primary setting, and hunter variant focus.
| Year | Title | Primary Setting | Hunter Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1987 | Predator | Central American Jungle | Classic Jungle Hunter |
| 1990 | Predator 2 | Los Angeles Urban | City Hunter & Team |
| 2004 | Alien vs. Predator | Antarctic Pyramid | Predator vs Alien |
| 2007 | Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem | Small Town USA | Predalien Hybrid Threat |
| 2018 | The Predator | Modern US Suburbs | Upgraded Super Predators |
Classic Origins: The Original Predator Era
The franchise launched with the 1987 jungle thriller starring Arnold Schwarzenegger. This film established the iconic design, thermal vision, and honor-bound hunting code that fans still celebrate.
Its immediate sequel in 1990 shifted the battlefield to the streets of Los Angeles, introducing a different breed of Predator and a grittier urban atmosphere. Together, these two core entries form the foundation of the series identity.
Expanded Universe: Alien vs. Predator Entries
To answer how many movies are in the Predator series in a broader sense, the crossover films must be included. Alien vs. Predator merged the two legendary franchises in a frozen Antarctic setting.
Its follow up brought the conflict to a small American town, blending horror and action as a Predalien offspring threatened to overwhelm local defenses. These films expanded the lore while appealing to crossover audiences.
Modern Reimaginings: The New Era Films
The 2018 standalone release redefined the Predator with advanced bioengineering and global stakes. It explored genetic modification and introduced new hunter variants, reshaping the mythos for a new generation.
Although not tied to the original timeline, this chapter demonstrates the ongoing interest in evolving the franchise while experimenting with tone, technology, and set pieces.
Key Takeaways for Predator Series Fans
- Start with the 1987 classic and 1990 sequel to grasp the original tone.
- Recognize that crossover films create a larger franchise count beyond core entries.
- The 2018 film offers a modern reboot with new rules for the hunters.
- Future releases could expand the series further, but the current count stands at five.
- Use the timeline table to quickly compare settings, threats, and hunter designs across all movies.
FAQ
Reader questions
How many core Predator movies are considered main canon?
There are two core main canon films: Predator (1987) and Predator 2 (1990).
Do the Alien vs. Predator films count toward the series total?
Yes, if you count the broader franchise including crossover events, the series comprises five theatrical releases.
Is The Predator (2018) part of the original continuity?
No, The Predator (2018) exists as a separate, modern reboot rather than a continuation of the original timeline.
Are there any upcoming Predator projects that could change the count?
As of now, planned future projects may add new stories, but the current released how many movies are in the Predator series total remains five.