The Predator line from NECA is set to hit a special milestone, the release of their 100th Predator themed action figure! For this release, NECA wanted to offer fans not only a completely new figure, but one that hearkens back to the original film in a unique way. As many fans may know, the Jungle Hunter Predator that was seen in the film was not the original design. Initially, the Predator was thought of as a large insectoid creature, with none other than Jean-Claude Van Damme inside the suit. However, while filming director John McTiernan realized the design wasn’t working. It was too clunky, and was not as mobile as was needed to film the action scenes. Ultimately, Stan Winston was tapped to design the new creature, giving us the iconic Yautja design scene in the film.
To pay homage to this lost legacy, NECA has brought this original design into their story canon as the Amengi, a race of creatures that enslaved the much smaller, and weaker ancestors to the Yautja. After generations of evolution, and being bred to fight in gladiatorial style games, the Yautja were born. The largest, and strongest of the fighters had led an uprising, killing off the Amengi, and freeing his race from their enslavement. This new leader was known as the first hunter, and became the alpha Predator, wearing the near impenetrable skin of the Amengi (aka the unused Predator design), as his armor and mask.
Our friends at NECA Toys have sent over the Alpha Predator for an exclusive advanced look. After the jump, you can find my photo gallery and thoughts on the figure.
Pre-Order Links: Entertainment Earth • Megalopolis • HobbyLink Japan • Dorkside Toys (Currently Sold Out) • Big Bad Toy Store (Currently Sold Out)
