Intense, Heart-pounding action

Rating: 8/10 (30 May 2009)

The Terminator series so far has focused on one insurmountable cyborg from the future that attempts to kill John Conner, supposedly the savior of mankind in a future where machines have taken over the world. Built around that premise, 'Terminator Salvation' jumps into that annihilated future with Skynet now controlling the desolate Earth while seeking the last remnants of mankind. Droids, cyborgs and ships survey the devastation while scattered groups of humans take cover from their inevitable capture. Some have the tools and weapons but have lost the courage to fight. They survive with hope as well as fear but are being motivated by the voice of their prophesized leader whose frequent speeches on the underground radio never fail to remind them – "If you are listening to this, you are the resistance." John Conner, the leader of the resistance is their only hope to win the war against the machines of Skynet. His Mother died saving him and so did the good Terminator in T3 but this time, he is on his own almost.
Sam Worthington plays Marcus, who is sent to 2018 from the past when he had volunteered to donate his body for a cause that would change the future for mankind. The ultimate discovery of his shocking self is a revelation for him and a threat to Conner who only at a later point realizes that Marcus is not whom he perceived to be. Conner infiltrates Skynet to rescue Kyle Reese, who fathers John Conner in the past (T1). The time travel phenomenon will leave you confused at times but what the writers and director MCG have achieved is quite commendable, considering that this is the 4th installment in the series. The plot still has enough surprises and room for future exploits.
While Christian Bale delivers his intense, calm and reserved performance like he does in most of his movies, Saw Worthington is the one who towers above all. His performance has the versatility, intensity and promise of a rising star.
As a highlight, T4 has action that comes fast and heavy. There is more explosive action and gunfire than ever and barely a breather between two intense action sequences. As a result, the pulsating effect will leave your heart rate somewhere between 120-160.The machines are meaner, bigger and cause more destruction than the Incredible Hulk being on the run. Special attention must be drawn to the radical motorcycles of the machines that make the 'Batpod' look archaic. Computer graphics in most sequences are phenomenal! From the desolate landscapes of L.A. to the machines, to the fighter jets in combat, to the wormy machines and also the cameo by the original 'Terminator', the visuals are incredible.
MCG adds just enough franchise recognition in this film with 'I'll be back', naked Arnie and the trademark theme that evokes nostalgia and excitement as in the previous films. Yes, MCG has redeemed himself in his career as director and summer '09 has its second fun- filled, adrenalin rushing installment.

8.57 on a scale of 1-10.