One of the best sci-fi action films ever made

Rating: 8/10 (24 February 2006)

In 2026 machines have taken over and are killing mankind--but one man is beating them. A cyborg (Arnold Schwarzenegger) is sent from the future to 1984 to kill Sarah Connor (Linda Hamilton)-the mother of that man. Kyle Reese (Michael Biehn) also goes back to prevent him from killing her.
Now legendary science fiction action film is every bit as good as its reputation. It moves quickly and is full of action and violence almost virtually nonstop. There are plenty of exciting high speed car chases and a knockout sequence when Arnie basically decimates an entire police station--and everyone in it. The special effects are impressive especially considering this was a low-budget film. The plot is intelligent and intricate--it treats its audience with respect. There are some amusing things that date this--the VERY 80s music soundtrack, the Tech Noir club (which has a $4.50 cover charge) and hysterically bad clothes.
The acting isn't that good. Schwarzenegger is perfectly cast as a robot and Biehn walks through his role. Only Hamilton gives a good performance--but who watches this for the acting? Also there are some familiar faces in small roles--Bill Paxton (as a punk); Dick Miller (the gun store owner); Rick Rossovich (as a doomed boyfriend) and Paul Winfield and Lance Henriksen as police officers. Also this is the film that gave Arnie his infamous "I'll be back" line.
This movie has its lulls--it does come to a screeching halt when Reese and Connor get to know each other (even though that sequence IS necessary) and it does have to take time out to explain things. Still this is an exciting, violent movie well worth catching. This rightfully put director James Cameron on the map.
Best line: "You're terminated f**ker!"