A “masterpiece” of the science fiction genre, hailed by fans as one of the best ever, is now streaming for free in the UK. The Terminator (1984) focuses on the arrival of the eponymous cybernetic assassin (played by Arnold Schwarzenegger), who has travelled back in time from 2029 to kill Sarah Connor (Linda Hamilton), who will one day have a son that will save the human race from being wiped out by a malevolent artificial intelligence called Skynet.
The film was directed by James Cameron, who co-wrote it with Gale Anne Hurd. The film established Cameron, who went on to make box office giants like Titanic and Avatar, and was a major breakout role for Schwarzenegger.
The film is “Certified Fresh” on Rotten Tomatoes, boasting a 100% score (reflecting the percentage of approved critics who have given it a positive review).
It also has an 89% score among general audiences, reflecting the high esteem in which it is held among lovers of action thrillers and sci-fi.
Fans have showered the movie with praise on the review aggregator site. One called it a “streamlined sci-fi classic which effectively balances its terrifying premise and thrillingly composed action with its main character’s development and her relationship with her saviour”.
Another said: “Look at the year this film was made and how watchable and culturally relevant it is, it’s simply absurd, James Cameron delivered a masterpiece that marked history forever, in terms of direction, soundtrack, AI concept, a perfect, complete work.”
A third praised the film but said it was bettered by the follow-up, also directed by Cameron, Terminator 2: Judgment Day. “It is a great movie for its era, but it really is overshadowed by its sequel,” they argued.
“The characters are gripping, and the Terminator really seems like a robot. Lots of thrilling action scenes, but otherwise unremarkable. There could’ve been more future war scenes, but the ones in the movie are great.”
The film spawned five more films in the main franchise, all of which feature Schwarzenegger.
However, another held it up as the best of the franchise, calling it “one of the best science fiction action movies ever”.
“The role Arnold was born to play. Great supporting cast. Best of the series,” they added.
The film has a 15 certificate and contains strong language, violence, and sex – so may not be for everyone.
The Terminator is streaming free on Amazon Prime and ITVX with ads. It’s also available to rent or buy on Apple TV and Sky Store.
