Terminator’s Mixed Reviews, Meanings

Hello, I’m Erica Nochlin and this is newsy.com.

It’s one of the most successful science fiction series to date – grossing over a billion dollars worldwide.

Of course we’re talking about the post-apocalyptic Terminator saga, which documents mankind’s struggle against an army of machines.

“Terminator Salvation,” the first PG-13 rated instillation in the series, debuts this week.

“Salvation” is the first terminator movie not to star current California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger,

Reuters takes a shot at that with, “Arnold Schwarzenegger was too busy running California to save the world in the new "Terminator" movie...”

However, “True to his catchphrase "I'll be back," Schwarzenegger did make a brief cameo, even though he never set foot on the movie's set.”

Early reviews of the film have been mixed, Metacritic reviewers gave the film an average of 51% while RottenTomatoes.com says the films average review is only 30%.

WIRED gives voice to the varied perspectives:

“Terminator Salvation doesn’t so much invite you into its grim vision of a robot-ruled future as bash you over the head with it.... Still, Salvation’s noisy action sequences rattle along at a breakneck clip to the movie’s satisfying, if inevitable, payoff: Ordinary humans outsmart, outmaneuver and out-smash the attack machines.”

Many see deeper meaning in the film, including Christian undertones.

Christianity Today points out John Connor’s J.C. initials and that he would become humanity’s savior.

And from the business perspective – ign.com reminds not to forget about the merchandise, and looks at action figures and video games tied in to the franchise.

Regardless of the reviews, the film is expected to do well, however, The Hollywood Reporter says the film can expect stiff competition from Ben Stiller’s  “A Night at the museum” sequel.

“Fox's "Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian," has at least a chance of edging out the first new "Terminator" movie in almost six years for the No. 1 box-office ranking during the long Memorial Day weekend.”

Incidentally – James Cameron the creator of the series – didn’t work on this film. He’s working on a highly anticipated movie called – Avatar – scheduled for release in December.