Predator: A Memoir, a Movie, an Obsession

In his memoir, Ander Monson explores the 1987 film Predator, which he’d watched 146 times. Patiently considering each frame, he uses his obsession to examine his life shaped by mainstream American culture. Between scenes, he delves into his adolescence, fatherhood, and friendships with men bound by action movie camaraderie. He also explores cosplay and first-person shooters, imagining himself beside Paul Monette, who wrote the Predator novelization while his partner died of AIDS.

The book dissects the film while questioning masculinity, fandom, and their connection to mass violence. In a surprising chapter, Monson is seen through the Predator’s vision, questioning his knowledge of the hidden world. As he immerses us in the film’s intricacies, the hunt begins.

(This book may contain a sharpie mark on the top or bottom edge and may show mild signs of shelfwear.)