Every time you think Skynet has finally met its demise, another Terminator movie arises. What’s significant about Terminator Genisys is the return of Arnold Schwarzenegger in the iconic role that placed him on the map as a movie action star. Coupled with a story that essentially attempts to reboot the franchise, Terminator Genisys tests the waters to gauge the audience’s interest in humans versus the machines.
How’s the story?
Time travel plays a significant role in the storyline. As in the original Terminator movie, John Connor (Jason Clarke), leader of the rebellion against Skynet, sends Kyle Reese (Jai Courtney) back to 1984 to protect his mother, Sarah, against a Terminator assassin. Taking elements of the first two movies while pushing forth the idea that the future is not set, Terminator Genisys alters the Sarah Connor timeline. Instead of the frightened waitress from the 1984 movie, Sarah Connor (Emilia Clarke) is an experienced fighter who has been raised and guarded by a T-800 Terminator (Arnold Schwarzenegger) since she was 9 years old. The resulting story ends up a bit confusing at times but nonetheless entertaining largely due to Mr. Schwarzenegger’s performance.
How’s the cast?
Arnold Schwarzenegger’s is the essential reason Terminator Genisys works at all. Emilia Clarke, best known to audiences from her role as Daenerys Targaryen in HBO’s Game of Thrones, portrays a smart, feisty, yet whimsical version of Sarah Connor. Jai Courtney seems woefully miscast as Kyle Reese. His physical size would have been better suited as a Terminator rather than a struggling freedom fighter from a war torn future. Jason Clarke adds new dimensions to John Connor not seen before in previous iterations. The talented J.K. Simmons is largely wasted in a thankless role as Detective O’Brien.
How are the special effects?
The filmmakers paid homage to the the first two movies as well as adding new CGI wizardry into the mix. Explosions, death and mayhem abound but in a largely bloodless and almost video game like manner. Action sequences propel the movie forward at a dizzying pace.
The movie is rated PG-13. Can I take my kids?
As stated before, the violence and action are constant throughout the movie. Yet it’s rather bloodless and not unlike many video games in scope. I’d recommend ages 12 and up.
Any ideal moments for a bathroom break during the movie?
This is a fast paced movie. That begin said, you won’t necessarily miss too much by stepping out when Kyle, Sarah and Pops first return to Sarah’s hideout.
Overall Rating: B
Recommended for ages 12 and up.
Pros: Arnold’s back! Non-stop action. Interesting ideas at work for the reboot.
Cons: Bad casting for Kyle Reese role. Timeline story can be confusing.
Official Trailer for Terminator Genisys
https://youtu.be/rGSxss7gWak
What do you think movie fans? Does Arnold’s return to the Terminator franchise make you want more Terminator films?
