The “Predator” Method for Writing Science Fiction Plots:
Step 1: Take a non-scifi plot that is already interesting on its own.
For example, a group of military commandos on a mission to the jungles of Guatemala to rescue politicians held captive by insurgents.
Step 2: Add Predator.
The best part is that this works with literally any genre.
Step 1: Three childhood friends reconnect, one attempting desperately to get the others to discover the dreams of their youth after a lifetime of compromise. Shenanigans and heartfelt life lessons ensue.
Step 2: Add Predator.
Or,
Step 1: A rising star in a law firm finds their personal morality challenged by their ambition when a wealthy and guilty client demands they help them evade charges.
Step 2: Add Predator.
Or,
Step 1: A group of kids discover a treasure map that promises to lead them to enough wealth that they can keep poor old lady Gladys from getting kicked out of the house by the bank.
Step 2: Add Predator.
The lesson to take from this is that literally every single movie on the planet can be improved with the addition of Predator.