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Terminator Genisys: Review

Terminator Genisys

Starring: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jai Courtney, Emilia Clarke, Jason Clarke, JK. Simmons, Matt Smith, Sandrine Holt (Rated M – 125 min).

No prior knowledge of the iconic science-fiction film series does not help the already confusing timeline jumps that happen throughout this admirable fifth installment.

Those most familiar with the opening two trailblazing films and unfairly underrated fourth story Terminator Salvation, will appreciate recreations of entire scenes and plot strands. The third film, Rise of the Machines barely registers in significance here.

As the famous quote states, Arnie is back, front and centre reconstructed into various cyborg prototypes best not revealed including an elder greying version, however the prevention of an imminent Judgement Day is the main objective for many, but definitely not all concerned.

John Conner (Jason Clarke) leader of future human resistance sends Sergeant Kyle Reese (Jai Courtney) to 1984 to protect Sarah Conner (Emilia Clarke, channeling the hardcore Linda Hamilton to moderate success) from being terminated before she can progress towards the halting of an earth apocalypse. Skynet is the high-tech company still responsible, now running under the alias Genisys and just as deceitful trying to take over the human race with robotics.

Possibly unintentional mind boggling large scale action simmers when the 1984 story from the original film is twisted into new variations for an alternative timeline, then heats up for one on one fight scenes. Most of what I liked about the earlier films were the practical special effects, this is all CGI unrealistic mayhem for the most part which extinguishes a portion of the excitement.

Liquid metal morphing terminators still look fantastic and have more tricks this time, while a bus chase across the Golden Gate Bridge is a highlight. Australian duo Jai Courtney and Jason Clarke are commendable while former Dr.Who Matt Smith is effective in a mere cameo.

True fans are going to have a hard time when self parody kicks in at attempt for cheap laughs.

Shane A. Bassett

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