The Terminator
Orion Pictures | Release Date: October 26, 1984
7.7
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Generally favorable reviews based on 1189 Ratings
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Positive:
924
Mixed:
198
Negative:
67
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9
KelvinSelimorMar 23, 2020
The Terminator. Come with me if you want to live. Cool science fiction movie from the inimitable James Cameron. All the actors performed their roles perfectly. Especially Arnold Schwarzenegger who played a great cyborg killer. Although theThe Terminator. Come with me if you want to live. Cool science fiction movie from the inimitable James Cameron. All the actors performed their roles perfectly. Especially Arnold Schwarzenegger who played a great cyborg killer. Although the film leaves behind some logical questions, it (the film) is still cool.… Expand
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7
CoreGamer1408Oct 24, 2021
I had a choice buy one DVD copy of Derp Fate or buy T1/T2 for the same price on DVD. No real contest hey lol. Modern films are mostly trash. So how does a DVD re-watch of a 80's film hold up in 2021? Well it is a film of it's time. Some ofI had a choice buy one DVD copy of Derp Fate or buy T1/T2 for the same price on DVD. No real contest hey lol. Modern films are mostly trash. So how does a DVD re-watch of a 80's film hold up in 2021? Well it is a film of it's time. Some of the effects don't hold up. The movie has a whole low budget TV feel to it all. The performances are all fine. Story is well outthere, but in good way. Fun 80's action movie for sure. T1/T2 even Salavation plus the game Resitance are my Terminator head cannon. The rest of the T-movies can burn for all I care. T2 is where it all should of stopped.… Expand
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10
weirdmagican21Jul 17, 2018
great movie! an instant classic and great movie a must watch for time travel fans
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7
Boonie2000Jun 14, 2019
Cult movie. If I remind myself movies with Arnold Schwarzenegger this comes to my mind immediately!
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10
spacebear1Dec 11, 2017
James Cameron's The Terminator is an amazing film. The action is amazing, the music is iconic, and the characters are great. Kyle Reese is an amazing action hero and the T-800 is an amazing villain. In the end, this is a great film and myJames Cameron's The Terminator is an amazing film. The action is amazing, the music is iconic, and the characters are great. Kyle Reese is an amazing action hero and the T-800 is an amazing villain. In the end, this is a great film and my rating would be 10/10… Expand
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10
Naruto78909Mar 31, 2018
Terminator 1 and 2 are classic sci fi movies the 3rd is good as well the story and action is really great and has a steady amount of action that won't make it boring and it is a intelligent sci fi flick
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9
TheRussianatorApr 17, 2018
Being a true sci-fi action classic, The Terminator benefits from its relentless pace, amazing action sequences, brilliant story, and a haunting performance from Arnold Schwarznegger.
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10
Popcorn55May 6, 2018
One of the finest science fiction films of all time. In its originality, its chilling relentless drive, it moves us steadily from an innocent, cheerful 1980s world into an utter nightmare, with the looming spectre of nuclear extinction andOne of the finest science fiction films of all time. In its originality, its chilling relentless drive, it moves us steadily from an innocent, cheerful 1980s world into an utter nightmare, with the looming spectre of nuclear extinction and the end of humanity. The sweet young waitress finds herself in a fight to the death with an enemy that just will not die, that can't be killed, that will never stop its pursuit. Perhaps unintentionally, this film rises to the level of prophecy; it's a real warning, about the real future dangers facing the human race (AI, autonomous robots, and nuclear war), and it's possibly affected enough people over the decades to have had some actual historical effect. This film and its sequels has affected our culture, and our point of view, at a deep level, making us more skeptical regarding these emerging technologies. And that is a good thing. "Not for about forty years," says Reese in the film -- but now it's been 34 years, and there actually are walking, talking autonomous robots. That nightmare future... may be very close now.… Expand
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9
LoletinAlexisJul 20, 2019
The Terminator is uncertainty, it is fear, it is interest, it is magic.

The Terminator is one of the best science fiction and action movies ever created thanks to the incredible imagination of James Cameron.
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10
NIneTailKitsuneApr 14, 2018
A combination of an action movie and a thinking movie that actually works. Unbelievably well in fact. The acting is amazing for this type of movie, especially Linda Hamilton. We get to see her character grow realistically from a soft youngA combination of an action movie and a thinking movie that actually works. Unbelievably well in fact. The acting is amazing for this type of movie, especially Linda Hamilton. We get to see her character grow realistically from a soft young adult working at a diner to a hardened (though not entirely) informed character with only one goal on her mind. The music is the best score I have ever heard. It adds suspense and bleakness and a fourth dimension to what is presented. The visuals are very well done for its time, including the robot. The story is also very powerful especially the war scene that Reese describes to Sarah: it's depressing and it makes you want to prevent this future from happening. Overall, this film is a recommend with action-packed scenes, likable characters, a haunting score, great visuals and an insight into the future that is ultimately in despair yet inspiring.… Expand
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10
respwnSep 2, 2021
One of the most influential and best scifi movies of all time. Worth a watch even today. The OST is also MVP and carries a intense 80s vibe. If you haven't watched it yet, do yourself a favor and do.
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9
TomtagMay 9, 2019
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Before being a master of great CGI movies like Avatar (2009), Titanic (1997), James Cameron directed and produced this, Terminator (1984), and it had become one of his greatest work. There was so much sci-fi and action that we have always wanted to see. It was about a seemingly indestructible android is sent from 2029 to 1984 to assassinate a waitress, whose unborn son will lead humanity in a war against the machines, while a soldier from that war is sent to protect her at all costs. Starring Arnold Schwarzenegger (a name that is hard to pronounce), as T-800. Most of you though that in the movie he would be a protagonist but he was actually the main villain. It was weird right because the poster had his portrait on it, not a hero but a villain. Schwarzenegger was legendary when he took this role and he acted just like a real cyborg with no feelings, no tears, it’s just so perfect! Linda Hamilton as Sarah Connor, T-800’s only target, was good as well being a waitress, a person who didn’t know how her son was going to be. Michael Biehn played the good guy Kyle Reese, who would then be Sarah Connor’s husband but he died before they even got married. Pretty sad! At first I thought he was another terminator which he had no clothes as well as T-800. It was funny when we could see T-800’s buttocks. But then, the best performance belongs to the villain and that is Arnold Schwarzenegger. He was great and perfect for the movie! A great casting choice! I liked the action sequence so much because they were non-stop, entertaining and well-edited, 1% of bad CGI. I just didn’t like the cinematography much. It really looked like the 60s with technicolor or the 70s. The 80s were a bit of advanced so they should spend more of the budget to make a better cinematography. It’s really hard to look at something that should be seen clearly. Another problem was when T-800 chased the two when it was burnt and exploded by one of Reese’s bombs and turned into a cyborg skeleton, it was walking like how villains walk from movies of the 20s, the 30s or the 40s. It was bad. The lines from the screenplay were really good and iconic, especially: I’ll be back! Or Fak you assholr! I really wanted to say it in front of bullies who tried to do the same thing that made the character says the line. They would be like “Where do you get that line from?” and they would get jealous. Terminator (1984) was a masterpiece of sci-fi and action. I was still confused why it was R-Rated. There wasn’t much blood or restricted danger. I felt it should be PG-13 because teens under 18 loved it as well. I really disagreed with the fact that it was rated an R. It was such a waste of that rating. For sci-fi and action movie fans, you guys should see it. It’s one of the greatest in science fiction.

Ratings: 8.8/10… Expand
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10
Dungeon00XNov 14, 2019
Terminator is one of the best films ever. A standalone future war movie would make millions, but they just don't seem interested in that premise anymore, or the movie being a huge chase scene. It's great to see this is still a well loved film.
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10
JeremyoogaboogaOct 12, 2019
The Terminator keeps you on your toes the entire time. for most of the film, I kept thinking, "No! don't kill him/her!". Not many movies do that to me, but this movie had characters and a story that I actually cared about. combine that withThe Terminator keeps you on your toes the entire time. for most of the film, I kept thinking, "No! don't kill him/her!". Not many movies do that to me, but this movie had characters and a story that I actually cared about. combine that with one of the most terrifying movie villains EVER, and you got yourself one of the best action movies ever created.
Story: 9
Protagonists: 10
Villain: 10!
Action:9
Dialogue: 10
Overall score: 10… Expand
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9
heyCorvoMar 27, 2020
One no probably the best sci-fi/action movies of all time.The Terminator a killing cyborg against James Cameron a must see movie for sure.
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7
Toasty87Jul 12, 2020
Slow in some parts very slow in others but brilliant everywhere else .
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10
akshatmahajanMay 21, 2021
I watched this movie when I was young and became fan of Arnold. Today, I re-watched the movie and again enjoyed it alot.

It is great action movie. Some people complain of boredom in the film. Yes, I agree there are some small scenes ofI watched this movie when I was young and became fan of Arnold. Today, I re-watched the movie and again enjoyed it alot.

It is great action movie. Some people complain of boredom in the film. Yes, I agree there are some small scenes of boredom but it did not significantly affect my experience with the film. Arnold perfectly played the role of terminator. I cannot imagine another actor representing the character. Sarah and Kyle's relationship was also interesting but could have been made much better. The plot, soundtrack, acting... everything in the movie was great.
Overall, I would recommend this movie to everyone... literally everyone.… Expand
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8
MrPajamasSep 9, 2020
When you say Arnold Schwarzenegger, I immediately think of the Terminator, and for good reason. The Terminator is just a great movie. It has a great story and a very good plot. The action here is also excellent and what stands out most aboutWhen you say Arnold Schwarzenegger, I immediately think of the Terminator, and for good reason. The Terminator is just a great movie. It has a great story and a very good plot. The action here is also excellent and what stands out most about the film are the effects, which look absolutely luxurious for 1984. The Terminator is a classic and if you haven't seen this blockbuster, you should remedy that.… Expand
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10
Neoimtheone1981Oct 16, 2020
One of my favorite movies of all time! No reasons to knock it. If you've seen it already you know what I'm talking about already. If you haven't seen it yet you need to, then you'll know what I'm talking about! Truly Epic, nuff said.
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10
MikeMikey321Nov 6, 2020
One of the best movies of all time!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! A masterpiece 10/10!
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9
KaipingZhangMar 17, 2021
The Terminator is an amazing sci-fi thriller classic. Even though it can get corny sometimes with the Arnold's accent, he still did a great job playing him. Michael Biehn and Linda Hamilton give great performances too, so give it a watch!
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10
geewahJan 30, 2021
The original and still the best (by some distance) of all the Terminator films.
Well paced, a terrifying villian, and insane action scenes makes for one of classic action movies of all time.
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7
AmiristosMar 4, 2021
Personally I believe that the action in the first terminator is not as good as in 2 or 3. This movie is more about creating the template for feature terminators and it does it really good. CGI and actions scenes are too good for 1984 andPersonally I believe that the action in the first terminator is not as good as in 2 or 3. This movie is more about creating the template for feature terminators and it does it really good. CGI and actions scenes are too good for 1984 and nobody can doubt that..All in all very good introduction to terminator movies..Nice job… Expand
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8
l0nlym1lkMar 28, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This dark and gritty action film has everything a man could want in a film. The synthwave soundtrack really adds t the tense feeling this film depicts as well as the dark and gritty visual style. My only problem with this film is that some characters are very one note, and could really use some polishing of the script. I'm not just talking about the terminator himself, but kyle reese and sarah conner as the protagonists should have a bit more chemistry. However, this film does do something that better that the sequel f*cked up. I am referring to the action in this film. for the most part this film is grounded in reality and so the action isn't too "in your face" and is instead quite harrowing considering the circumstances that are set up in the film. Which in my opinion I prefer action this way instead of over the top shootouts on exploding skyscrapers. In addition to this, the performance from Arnold Schwarzenegger is truly terrifying. this is why I think that The terminator is a classic 80s action movie and should be viewed by everyone with skin(unlike the sequel).… Expand
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8
Amirhosein2005Jul 14, 2021
The Terminator is an ambitious and advanced film that is definitely one of the biggest leaps in cinema.
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10
mstaub87Dec 7, 2021
Just awesome. Like Arnold so much, he is amazing in this role. If you didn't watch the movie, you've come from Mars or Venus, I guess. Anyway so much recommended!
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10
realjaytheboomSep 15, 2021
The movie that shot Arnold into the spotlight, a classic in its own right great action, fantastic performances this is a movie everyone needs to watch
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7
royalguy07Feb 24, 2023
A fun time, wasn't quite feeling it as a definitive classic but I enjoyed it from start to finish. Arnold needed just a little more to do.
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10
ZelimirSep 3, 2022
Perfection of a movie with limited budget, but visionary mind of film director James Cameron, with leading role that was made for Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Perfect pacing, great story, excellent casting. A must see for every sci fi horror movie fan.
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8
Computey18Mar 8, 2023
Sequel is better but still pretty good. Also James Cameron so there's that.
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10
Maxisgoat1717Apr 9, 2023
Why it rocks: It had some of the most original writing in a film at the time, and brought new, interesting characters and ideas to the world. The action scenes are intense and exciting, the fast nature of it really keeps you on the edge ofWhy it rocks: It had some of the most original writing in a film at the time, and brought new, interesting characters and ideas to the world. The action scenes are intense and exciting, the fast nature of it really keeps you on the edge of your seat, and it’s an easy to understand plot.… Expand
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8
DawidJohnsonFeb 6, 2023
Arnold Schwarzenegger's nipples are also in this movie! Everyone should watch!
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9
AREXPFeb 26, 2023
Review: Entertainment: 5/5
Acting: 4/5
Story: 5/5 (Advance concept for 1984) Score/Screenplay/Sound: 5/5 Length: 5/5 Is it worth watching a second time: Yes Watch it Alone or In a Group Setting: Both work fine Keywords: AI, Robots,Review: Entertainment: 5/5
Acting: 4/5
Story: 5/5 (Advance concept for 1984)
Score/Screenplay/Sound: 5/5
Length: 5/5

Is it worth watching a second time: Yes

Watch it Alone or In a Group Setting: Both work fine

Keywords: AI, Robots, Terminators, War, Nuclear, Romance, Futuristic, Shotguns, Guns

P.S. Great concept for 1984, also there was a $4.50 cover charge to enter a nightclub back in 1984. It's free these days or ticketed or $20 in some places in DTLA. The story has scenes from 2029 which is six years away, where the protagonist mentions Nuclear war and AI. Seems like a good prediction to me considering Russia/ China and ChatGPT… Expand
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7
AlexXiloJul 17, 2023
A very solid sci fi action/drama film, Arnold did a great performance with all the other actors included.
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