Starring: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Linda Hamilton, Michael Biehn Directed By: James Cameron Average Rating: Aspect Ratio: 1.85:1 Audience Rating: R (Restricted) Binding: Blu-ray Format: AC-3, Color, Dolby, Dubbed, Subtitled, Widescreen Label: MGM (Video & DVD) Number of Items: 1 Release Date: June 20, 2006 Running Time: 108 minutes Theatrical Release Date: October 26, 1984
Product Description: MGM The Terminator (Blu-Ray) Arnold Schwarzenegger is back as a time-traveling T-101 "Terminator" in this smash hit directed by Jonathan Mostow. With dazzling effects, bravura thrills and a story that boldly spins into the unexpected, this is an eventspectacle to see and see again. In the year 2029,the ruling super- computer, Skynet, sends an indestructible cyborg (Arnold Schwarzenegger) back in time to 1984 to kill Sarah Connor (Linda Hamilton)before she can fulfill her destiny and save mankind.
Amazon.com essential video: This is the film that cemented Schwarzenegger's spot in the action-brawn firmament, and it was well deserved. He's chilling as the futuristic cyborg who kills without fear, without love, without mercy. James Cameron's story and direction are pared to the bone and all the more creepy. But don't overlook the contributions of Linda Hamilton, who more than holds her own as the Terminator's would-be victim, Sarah Connor--thus creating, along with Sigourney Weaver in Alien, a new generation of rugged, clear-thinking female action stars. It's surprising how well this film holds up, and how its minimalist, malevolent violence is actually way scarier than that of its far more expensive, more effects-laden sequel. --Anne Hurley
The Sequels Are Terminated I just finished watching The Terminator again, and although the excellent plot progressed in the following two films, the original puts the others to shame.
Not only does the original terminator turn into a good-guy girlie-bot and a comedian, but the bad terminators don't even come close.
You want tension? You want scary? You want atmosphere? You want action?
This is the film for you.
"Listen. And understand. That terminator is out there. It can't be bargained with. It can't be reasoned with. It doesn't feel pity, or remorse, or fear. And it absolutely will not stop, ever, until you are dead."
Great film, poor Blu-ray transfer The transfer quality of this film's Blu-ray edition is nowhere near the optimal resolution of the disc format; I'd say it's no better than its DVD version. Since this movie's budget was likely smaller than its sequels, it stands to reason that the film quality might not have been as stellar during production. However, I hope that this is merely laziness on the part of the Blu-ray transfer itself, and that the master film can be restored to better clarity in the future.
Until a new Blu-ray version is released, save some cash and buy the DVD. You'll get the same quality.
The machines are coming T1 is such an important movie, yes the visuals look dated, but how many franchises have lasted this long? The whole man versus machine has inspired and influenced so many artists, musicians, and other filmmakers. The acting in this movie is pretty good, Arnold acts like a robot so I'm sure this role wasn't too difficult for him. Linda Hamilton does the tough lady with brains instead of the usual damsel in distress nonsense. The directing, the story is top notch. T1 is a must see for all action, sci fi fans. Highly recommended.
The Begininator: The Movie that Started it All This is a classic movie to the point where it has become a serious cliche. However it is well made and finely paced. The soundtrack is seriously '80s but otherwise fine. Most importantly, however, this movie paved the road for the very excellent second movie.
The effects are dated, but they work well enough for the movie because they are shot with competence and an eye towards the end result of the movie.
Michael Biehn and Linda Hamilton work well together and Schwarzenegger is perfectly cast here in a rare (for him at least) villain role.
The Legacy Begins While almost 25 years after its release, the Terminator franchise is still going strong. James Cameron's original film is a low-budget thrillfest that truly made Arnold Schwarzenegger a star. The film follows a young carefree women as she learns that she will one day give birth to a resistance leader that will save the world. The downside is that evil robots don't want to see that happen and send a robotic Arnold back in the past to kill her long before she's even pregnant. Lots of bang for the buck with this film as the action and stunts are thrilling and brutal. Go check out the move that started this billion-dollar franchise. I recommend it for adults 18+.