I actually enjoyed this film. I am, however, a big fan of the first two films in the franchise, and given that this entry plays out like the ultimate fan-fiction, fan-service fan-film, it isn't surprising that I enjoyed watching it. The first act was especially good, showing us what went on before the Terminator and Kyle Reese were originally sent back to 1984. It was inventive and the attention to detail from the original story was incredible. If only the other two-thirds of the film were as worthy. I'm afraid the casting of Reese and Sarah Conner were the film's biggest mistakes. These actors brought nothing to the film and might as well have just been placeholder dummies posed in front of the camera. Schwarzenegger is good in his iconic role. He was more believable in this one than the third film if you ask me. And J. K. Simmons stole the show, when he was on screen that is. It was a small part, but it was the best part. The final act of the film was awful, predictable, and despite all the explosions and special effects, ultimately uneventful. As a huge fan of the first two Terminator films, I enjoyed this reboot/prequel/sequel/remake, but I can't imagine anyone else really caring at all. It was at least better than the last two in the franchise, and just like Jurassic World, that's all we can really hope for anymore.
3.0 Stars (out of 5)
These characters are better suited to being on the sideline of a larger film. Sure they sell merchandise, and the kids in the theater seemed to be having a good time, but this film doesn't begin to compare to the quality of the heartwarming and funny Despicable Me films. The best part of the film happens during the end credits, when it starts to feel a bit more like a real Despicable Me film. I guess I knew going in that a feature-length film starring gibberish-speaking yellow blobs wasn't going to be very good, but even with my hopes so low it still managed to be a bit of a disappointment. Maybe catch it on Netflix for the few cute laughs it offers.
