Cast and Crew: John McTiernan (Director); Jim and John Thomas (Writers); Stan Winston (Creature Effects); Joel Silver (Producer); Alan Silvestri (Original Music); Arnold Schwarzenegger, Carl Weathers, Bill Duke, Jesse Ventura, R. G. Armstrong, Shane Black

What It’s About: After a successful search and destroy mission in a Latin American jungle, a squad of elite soldiers goes from being the hunters to being the hunted when an invisible thing stalks them.

Why Watch it Today?: Collier’s Weekly published Richard Connell’s short story “The Most Dangerous Game” today in 1924*.  The story features a big game hunter marooned on an island where he becomes the prey of a White Russian expatriate who sees man as the “most dangerous game”.  Connell’s story is one of the most adapted, imitated and expanded upon in film history, from straight adaptations to sci-fi and horror and everything in-between.  Of these, Predator is itself the most successful, with 2 direct sequels, two Aliens Vs. Predators films, and numerous comic book appearances in addition to countless knock-offs.  It doesn’t hurt that the film features an excellent cast of tough guy actors, solid action, and Oscar-nominated special effects.  Just remember:  If all else fails, GET TO THA CHOPPA!

Where to Get It:  Your local library, Netflix (Rental Only), iTunes or Amazon