Satisfying enough entry into the canon

Rating: 7/10 (2 June 2009)

Starts off horribly, with ham-fisted references to the older, better entries in the series (nothing ever comes across less natural than "What day is it? WHAT YEAR!?"). Eventually, however, becomes a solid thriller worthy to stand along T3 at least, then ends in another bit of a trainwreck.
Overall, there's more good than bad. The more subtle references (GnR, the shotgun strap, even the necessary "I'll be back") work wonderfully even if the obvious ones are cringe-worthy. The action can be very good at times. New character Marcus is actually very interesting, if only they didn't spoil his arc in the trailers. Bale is a good choice as Connor, truly coming into the role in the second hour. Even Yelchin as young Kyle Reese evolves over the movie to become reminiscent of Michael Biehn. Plus it has possibly the best quasi-cameo of all time, which even with prior knowledge still knocked me off my feet.
Ergo, T4 gets a cautious recommendation, but it shouldn't upset fans too horribly much. It could've been done much better, but its still good popcorn fun.