Predator 2 (1990): A Lethal Hunt in the Urban Jungle
“Predator 2” (1990) doesn’t match the original’s iconic status, but it brings its own flair to the franchise. Directed by Stephen Hopkins, this sequel shifts the action from the South American jungle to the chaotic streets of Los Angeles. Set seven years in the future, the film captures a city embroiled in gang wars between Colombian and Jamaican drug lords, providing a fresh backdrop for the Predator’s deadly game.
Key Points
Plot Overview:
Danny Glover stars as Mike Harrigan, a tough LAPD detective navigating a city plagued by violence. As Harrigan and his team battle drug lords, they discover a new, more dangerous player—the Predator. The alien hunter stalks its prey, leaving a trail of gutted and skinned bodies, including Harrigan’s closest colleague. Tensions rise as Harrigan confronts both the Predator and a secretive government operation led by Agent Keyes (Gary Busey).
Action and Atmosphere:
“Predator 2” delivers non-stop action with intense gunfights and brutal hand-to-hand combat. The film attempts to substitute the original’s mercenary machismo with the rugged culture of L.A. cops, but the effort feels shallow. Nevertheless, the urban setting adds a unique twist, transforming the cityscape into a battleground.
Character Dynamics:
Danny Glover’s portrayal of Harrigan lacks depth, with the character plowing through the predictable plot. The supporting cast, including Maria Conchita Alonso and Bill Paxton, provide some memorable moments, but the characters remain underdeveloped. The film reverses a common action movie trope by having a white sidekick die to motivate the black hero, adding an interesting sociological layer.
Cultural Critique:
Roger Ebert criticized the film for supposedly linking the Predator’s dreadlocked appearance to black males. However, the Predators operate by a strict code of honor, showcasing a complexity that defies such simplistic associations. The climactic encounter, where Harrigan is spared by the other Predators and even receives a gift, highlights their sense of respect and fairness.
Nostalgic Elements:
“Predator 2” reflects 1990’s vision of 1997, complete with Miami Vice-style suits, Panama hats, and a sensationalized media landscape. The dialogue is packed with memorable, albeit crude, lines that epitomize the era’s action films. Despite its flaws, the movie evokes nostalgia for a time when action films were unapologetically violent and trashy, yet entertaining.
Conclusion:
“Predator 2” may not surpass its predecessor, but it offers a gritty, action-packed experience set in the urban jungle of Los Angeles. While Danny Glover’s performance lacks charisma, the film’s unique setting, relentless action, and nostalgic charm make it a noteworthy entry in the franchise. For fans of ’90s action films, “Predator 2” is a chaotic yet enjoyable ride that captures the essence of the era. Available on various digital platforms, it remains a testament to the wild, unrestrained spirit of its time.
