Prey (2021) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

The movie takes place in the Northern Great Plains, an expansive region of lush forests and rolling prairies that serves as the homeland of the Comanche tribe. The landscape is depicted as both beautiful and treacherous, with diverse wildlife and underlying dangers that the inhabitants must navigate.

• setting
• northern great plains
• comanche
• location

The film centers on the Comanche tribe, who inhabit the Northern Great Plains during the early 18th century. Their traditional customs, hunting practices, and community structure are central to the story's cultural context, with the tribe navigating challenges from both nature and external threats.

• comanche tribe
• indigenous
• native american
• culture

The movie is set in September 1719, during a pivotal period for the Comanche tribe. This era was marked by conflicts with European settlers and the need to adapt traditional survival strategies to new threats.

• 1719
• 18th century
• time period
• historical

The film explores three core themes: survival, as Naru faces dangers from both the natural world and an extraterrestrial predator; loss, particularly through the death of her brother Taabe which drives her journey; and courage, as Naru defies tribal expectations to prove herself as a capable hunter.

• themes
• survival
• loss
• courage
• meaning

Survival is central to Naru's journey as she confronts the dangers of the wilderness and the Predator. Her determination and resourcefulness highlight the primal instinct to protect oneself and one's community. The film explores the extreme lengths one must go to endure against formidable foes.

• survival
• predator
• danger
• endurance

Loss permeates Naru's story, most significantly through the tragic death of her brother Taabe. His fate serves as a catalyst for her transformation and motivates her quest for vengeance. This theme underscores the emotional weight of combat and the sacrifices made for family and survival.

• loss
• taabe
• death
• family
• tragedy

Courage is embodied in Naru's determination to prove herself within her tribe despite skepticism from others. She takes bold steps to demonstrate her worth as a hunter, showing bravery during encounters with the Predator and fur trappers. Her innovative thinking in the face of overwhelming odds showcases her strength.

• courage
• bravery
• naru
• proving herself

Naru is a young and skilled hunter in the Comanche tribe who yearns for acceptance from her people. She possesses a unique blend of courage and compassion, confronting formidable challenges including a lethal alien predator and French fur trappers. Her quick thinking and tenacity define her character arc throughout the film.

• naru
• protagonist
• hunter
• main character

Taabe is Naru's supportive older brother who stands by her side despite doubts from others in their tribe. As a successful hunter, he earns respect within the community. His character represents traditional roles within the tribe, combining strength with familial loyalty, though his story takes a tragic turn.

• taabe
• brother
• naru's brother
• supporting character

Sarii is Naru's loyal canine companion who plays a vital role in her adventures. His loyalty and instincts support Naru during perilous situations, highlighting the bond between humans and their animals. Sarii helps Naru navigate through the various threats they face throughout the story.

• sarii
• dog
• companion
• animal companion

The Predator is a technologically advanced alien hunter who arrives in Comanche territory, posing a threat far beyond anything the tribe has faced. The film contrasts primitive tribal skills with advanced alien technology, creating a high-stakes hunter-becomes-hunted scenario that tests Naru's abilities.

• predator
• alien
• hunter
• technology
• threat

Naru faces multiple external threats: the Predator, an alien hunter with superior technology; French fur trappers who threaten her tribe; and the dangerous wildlife of the Great Plains. These conflicts force her to use all her skills and courage to protect her people.

• conflicts
• threats
• enemies
• fur trappers
• predator