“Predator” is a 1987 American science fiction action film directed by John McTiernan and written by brothers Jim and John Thomas. It marks the first installment in the Predator franchise.

The film stars Arnold Schwarzenegger as the leader of an elite paramilitary rescue team sent on a mission to save hostages in a guerrilla-held territory within a Central American rainforest. During their mission, they encounter the Predator (Kevin Peter Hall), a technologically advanced alien who stalks and hunts them.

Originally written in 1984 under the working title “Hunter,” filming for “Predator” took place from March to June 1986, featuring creature effects created by Stan Winston. With a budget of approximately $15 million, 20th Century Fox released the film on June 12, 1987, in the United States, where it grossed $98.3 million. Although initial reviews were mixed, “Predator” has since been reappraised and is now considered a classic of the action genre.