Rating of
3/4
Action-Packed
Franz Patrick - wrote on 10/25/08
I really loved this film the first time I saw it but that was back in 2003. I had not seen that many films then so I regarded it quite highly. Five years later, I saw this picture again but I didn’t like it as much. The script was stale compared to “The Terminator” and “Terminator 2: Judgment Day,” but the acting somewhat made up for it. Some other elements that didn’t work for me was Claire Danes’ character. She was annoying because all she did was scream when she was in danger, yell when she didn’t get her own way, and waited to be rescued. I also didn’t like the fact that the writers killed of John Connor’s mother. She was a central figure in the first two films and disposing her was a fatal mistake (even if they couldn’t get Linda Hamilton to reprise her role). Still, this installment is a pretty good one despite its flaws. The visual and special effects were first rate so it’s impossible not to pay attention during the intense action sequences. Arnold Schwarzenneger’s return was more than welcome and choosing Nick Stahl to play John Connor was a wise choise because Stahl can be both weak and strong at the same time (I blame the puppy dog eyes). I also loved the ending because it was quite touching for a science fiction film. I heard from Entertainment Weekly that “Terminator Salvation” would not consider this film’s storyline. I’m not quite sure if that’s a good move (or how it’s going to work out) because this installment is a pretty good transition to the future war against the machines. This was a solid 2003 summer blockbuster film and it’s recommended to any fan of the “Terminator” franchise.
