Not quite up to scratch with the first two, but still entertaining(spoilers)

Rating: Null/10 (19 January 2004)

After the superlative first two "Terminator" films, there seems to be little need for a third movie about the eponymous cybernetic assassin. Yet this is what director Jonathan Mostow has produced, to surprisingly positive acclaim. While this effort is certainly not a classic in the same league as its predecessors, "Terminator 3" is still an entertaining and inventive sci-fi thriller.
John Connor (Nick Stahl), once set to be mankind's future saviour, is now a computer hacker in his early twenties who lives on the road by his wits. His mother Sarah (the Linda Hamilton character from the first two films) has died of leukaemia since the events of the last film. Unbeknownst to him, the apocalypse he thought he'd averted several years ago is nearly upon him. And once again he finds himself the target of two Terminators: one out to protect him, the other to destroy him. The nightmare begins again...
The film's main strength is its excellent array of action sequences and effects. Highlights include an inventive truck/car/bike chase sequence, a showdown in a weapons factory, a chaotic but oddly eerie shootout in a mortuary/graveyard, and the final confrontation in a desert retreat.
The acting is a quite mixed ranging from good to merely adequate. Nick Stahl is good as John Connor, but does not bring enough depth or pathos to the role. Claire Danes is on fine form as his romantic interest, and has a good relationship with her tragic father (David Andrews). Sadly there is a lack of romantic chemistry between her and Connor that leadens too many dramatic scenes.
As for Arnie, well, he said he'd be back and he is. Not once looking self-conscious or uncomfortable, Schwarznegger slips very easily back into the role that made him a star. With the actor's recent foray into US politics, this is likely to be his last role for some time. He handles all action and dramatic scenes very well. It is both surprising and endearing that an actor of limited range like Schwarznegger can add depth and substance to what is mostly a one-note part. Kristinna Loken is his new opponent, a T-X who simulates radio signals and whose arms can turn into rapid-firing machine guns. With a lithe figure and menacing stare, Loken has a sinister screen presence.
The script here is OK, but nothing special and could have done without the pointless self-referentialism. The story is very good, though, and presents us with an unexpectedly gloomy ending that sets the stage for further films.
"Terminator 3: Rise of Machines is not perfect but possesses enough action and just enough substance to make it a worthwhile flick.