Viewed in
2009
Premise
Christian Bale is the post-Judgment Day John Conner, stuck between saving Kyle Reese and following orders, when a mysterious stranger appears.
Who should watch
Fans of the franchise.
Thoughts
Knowing it will never reach the greatness of the first two films, this was a flawed, but decent sequel.
I liked this better than the third movie because I felt more like a 'Terminator' movie. For example, it recycled the famous lines, which is a good thing. As the mythology fills out, it was interesting to see the circular nature of the origins of those lines and dynamics, such as John Conner protecting an unpolished Kyle Reese.
Speaking of the Reese, Anton Yelchin is having quite a summer, having to fill in big shoes for two well-known characters from two famous franchises (other being Chekov from 'Star Trek'). I thought he was better in here, with a scrappy performance. Bale does a good job, but his character felt a bit monotone. New comer Sam Worthington was very good as the mysterious stranger (see Spoiler section for more).
The last aspect of the cast was the shout outs to two key members of the legacy. Just hearing Linda Hamilton's voice was cool. Last but not least, it is not a 'Terminator' movie without the original. Even though he was digitized, Arnold Schwarzenegger's perfectly placed cameo was worth the price of admission.
I liked Danny Elfman's pounding score, evoking 'Judgment Day', and actually using the famous theme in the story, instead of in the credits like its predecessor.
While the fight scenes were a good, gritty blend of computer graphics and live action, I felt they lacked any 'oomph' factor. At least 'Terminator 3' had that spectacular crane truck chase.
The biggest flaw was the story (as usual) and story telling. I got bored with too many minor characters I did not care about, waiting for John Conner/Skynet stuff. This could have been tighter (and shorter) movie.
While being bored, it was easier for me to find plot holes. Some parts were incredulous, such as a Godzilla-sized terminator that ninja'd a gas station in the desert without making a sound until attacking. Also, I found it hard to believe that John Conner would have to start as a foot soldier in the Resistance, since he knows everything that should happen.
While it was a mediocre, expensive action flick, it was better than 'Rise of the Machines' enough to satisfy the 'Terminator' fan in me.
What I would change
Hidden Sam Worthington's character's true identity in the trailers. I think it ruined the big twist that would have made a more enjoyable experience. Instead, I just kept waiting for characters to figure out who he is, which lead to some more incredulous scenes that the other characters could not recognize him for who he is.
Spoiler!
Since I knew Worthington was a cyborg, it was interesting to watch the subtle performance he gives, hinting that he behaves like one without realizing it. Notice how he surveys a new terrain just like Arnold used to.
