One important question hung over this film.
Is it better than Terminator 3?
Yes. Yes it is.
Now, follow on question. Is it a worth sequel to T2?
That is harder to say.
The films biggest flaw is that it is like Matrix sequels.
No 'learning to come to terms with powers/skills' Just Learn you have skills in the first movie(s) then in sequels you have the skills all mastered. It is a serious blip in continuity and the movie suffers from the start from Matrix sequel syndrome.
Also, some of it makes no fucking sense.
Obviously John Conner cant come out of the bomb shelters and suddenly be Hero of the Resistance. But c'mon, nobody who has seen 99% of people on Earth die would be so reckless for someone who they have never met.
Aside from that, the film is a visual treat. Big explosions, nods to the past films, chases, in jokes, great score, all fits and gels well into a very by the book action movie.
That is my biggest gripe.
Termninator two is not a By the book action movie.
Its THE action movie. One giant chase scene punctuated with fight scenes and still impressive visual images. This film is impressive, but not in a way that stays with you.
Had i written the film. It would have started in the camps, and Connor would have led the resistance, Great Escape style and earned his respect from the people he saves. Sadly this is not the case here. What we get is straight away from the go we are plopped in a post apocalyptic world populated by CGI and people with guns. Less CGI, more apocalypse for the win.
The point is, it really is not what you may expect. If thats a bonus then good. I went in with low expectations and was impressed. I really wanted to see more old chunky rubber skinned T 600's They are fucking scary. Maybe a bit more gore, as T1 and T2 were swimming in red stuff.
To summerise, you will enjoy it, even though you know you shouldnt. Its like a full tub of Ben+Jerrys to yourself in one sitting. You feel a little let down and sick with a bit too much of a good thing.
7/10
oh and arnie is in it. Thats why its not 5/10
