The Terminator

release year: 1984
genre: sci-fi action
viewing setting: most recently, home DVD 9/8/06

synopsis: In 2029, machines have almost exterminated humanity, but they end up losing the war...so they send a cyborg back in time to kill the mother of the unborn child who will grow up to lead the human resistance of 2029.

impressions: This movie kicks ass. The plot was based on a short story by Harlan Ellison, and was made on a relatively low budget by a relatively young director named James Cameron. While the plot and effects, and even the acting by the heroes, are all above-average, the movie really belongs to Arnold Schwarzenegger as the Terminator. A hulking, unstoppable killing machine, he mows through anyone and anything that gets in his way, firing as many bullets as he ignores. This was a landmark, if stereotyping, role for Arnold, but it catapulted both him and this movie to mega-fame.

something this movie has that no other movie has: Someone performing eye surgery on himself.

acting: A young and slightly plump Linda Hamilton plays the mother on the run, while Michael Biehn plays the human soldier sent back to protect her. I've already said enough about Arnold's impassive, menacing performance. Also keep an eye out for minor roles from Lance Henrickson and Bill Paxton.

final word: Must-see sci-fi, a classic.

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