Hey folks, Harry here... Here's the first review from the first screening of T3 outside of Executive Screenings. Prior to this review from sources I've had around the project, I've heard the film was a "B+" with the first two films being in the "A to A+" range. Meaning, the film is good, sometimes really cool, but ultimately not quite at the previous standards set by Cameron. This review, while positive reflects that. The mere mention that the character development is secondary to the action here is a direct reason why Cameron's films will be superior. Cameron perfectly orchestrates the previous two TERMINATOR films to center on the characters and to test that character in the flames of action. Seems it isn't quite the same this time. BUT it sounds like it could be a fun film. Here ya go...
Harry,
I just snuck out of a T3 screening. This movie was great, but yes, there were some problems. I will not spoil this movie for anyone because it can be spoiled rather easily. The movie starts with the voice of John Connor stating pretty much the same bullshit that Sarah Connor started T2 with. But John's paranoid now. He stays away from society and from computers. Which is a twist in itself because you would think he would be some computer hacker trying to hack into skynet machines.
The story line does suffer under the truly heavy predecessor T2 and the writers managed to squeeze out some plot juices. I imagine the writers sitting in a room looking along the entire Terminator time line to find a spot to fuck with. Yeah they found a weak one. It does lend itself to some space time continuum bullshit that you'd see in a Star Trek episode (A Next Generation one, so it's not all bad).
T3 moves fast and furious. You jump right in and you don't stop until you know it's safe to, or is it? The relationships suffer because of the fast pace. Development is secondary but someone you will take notice of is Nick Stahl. Nick is incredibly remarkable as John Connor. He steals this movie in my opinion. Arnold wisely takes a back seat to him and the TX. The TX is HOT. She's a total babe. I think even Harry would do her. You get to see a nice ass shot and a quick shot of her left titty! Sorry, that's all the spoilers you get!
One thing I hated about this movie was it's run time. It's way too short. I can't believe this movie was made with a sub 2 hour run time. What the hell were they thinking? This movie should have been 2 1/2 hours+. I guess we'll have to wait for the Extreme T3 DVD to come out!
All in all, Arnold is back and he definitely wants to make a T4! He didn't say anything to me, but it's so wide open for it, and I for one, definitely want to see a T4 get made.
The effects are incredible. That part you will not be disappointed with. Stan and ILM outdid themselves here. Those effects are worth the price of admission alone.
The director was on hand. He actually asked us not to spoil the surprises for anyone, and I definitely agree with him. You poor saps have to wait to see this one, but rest assured, I will be in line with you guys!
If you use this, call me The Love Machine.
