The Terminator Trilogy is Completed

Rating: 7/10 (8 July 2003)

On the heels of the one most overhyped, computer-generated movies of all time (Matrix Reloaded), "Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines", rises to the occasion (no pun intended) and completes and possibly continues James Cameron's original vision. Fortunately, for everyone, "Terminator 3" doesn't ruin the credibility of a great story, not like how "Alien 3" destroyed most of James Cameron's vision of "Aliens." The story, though as as much of a central as in T1 and T2, still manages to be very compelling, as what would be expected from "The Terminator." The effects, though does make use of CGIs, isn't overdone, and relies heavily on Stan Winston's "Terminator Effects." Arnold Schwarzenegger's many one-liners, though may abdundant with cheese, still manages to keep credibility with the Terminator saga. The music could be the only fault of the movie, but at least Brad Fiedel's familiar Terminator theme sounds during the end credits. All in all, "Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines" manages to deliver on almost all levels, and returns Arnold Schwarzenegger back to his star role, after numerous clunkers over the past few years. ("End of Days", "The 6th Day", "Collateral Damage."
* * * 1/2 out of 4.