I always feel somewhat odd when I say that the Terminator franchise is one of my favorites of all-time. The reason I say that is the first two films are utter masterpieces (each in their own right). Yet, everything after that has been a letdown, to say the least. Admittedly, the latest installment was actually pretty darn good (though it wasn’t anything that new).
But, when you look back at the first two, you remember just how amazing the franchise was. You also remember just how many epic characters were introduced. Today, I want to check out what I feel are the five best. I will also say which movie they were portrayed the best in. This is all my opinion, though, and it’s fair game if you feel differently.
5. Miles Dyson
Miles Dyson is not an ultra-popular character in the franchise, but he is one of my personal favorites. His portrayal in Terminator 2: Judgment Day by actor Joe Morton was awesome. Dyson was introduced as an elite-level computer engineer. However, later in the movie, it becomes known that his microprocessor will lead to the development of Skynet. While he ultimately is responsible for the creation of the system that will destroy humanity, you still can’t help but feel for him when you watch the movie.
4. Sarah Connor
Let’s just be honest right now; Linda Hamilton is the only Sarah Connor that matters. She is the true OG and seeing her return in Terminator: Dark Fate was amazing. But, it’s her character in the first two films that makes everyone fall in love with her (specifically the second one). Seeing her transformation from a happy-go-lucky girl to a take-no-prisoners fighter is truly something else.
3. The T-800
For those wondering, the T-800 is the terminator that Arnold Schwarzenegger plays in virtually every film in the franchise. Once again, though, the T-800 is the best in the first two films. Now, in the first, it’s programmed to kill Sarah Connor. Yet, in the sequel, it’s programmed to save John Connor (Sarah’s son). Both machines are portrayed by Schwarzenegger, but they are programmed differently. Honestly, I don’t know which one is my favorite between the two. It’s too close to decide!
2. The T-1000
The original T-1000, played by Robert Patrick, will always be my favorite antagonist from the series. Given that this model is made of liquid metal, it’s quite diverse in its actions throughout the film. Its ability to sample anything it physically touches (of equal size and not complex machines) and morph into stabbing weapons makes for creative dynamics. Oh yeah, the sucker can also flat-out run. Patrick is also perfect with his facial expressions throughout the film; it’s just pure gold.
1. Kyle Reese
Can we just finally admit how good of an actor Michael Biehn is? No, I’m not talking about Jai Courtney’s horrendous Kyle Reese in Terminator: Genisys (which actually may be the worst movie I have ever seen in my life). I am referring to the original Reese who was played by Biehn. This version could be my favorite movie protagonist ever. Yeah, that may be a stretch, but man is it close. Words can’t do this one justice; just go see his performance if you haven’t already.
Well, there you have it? You may be wondering where John Connor is on this list as he’s such an important character in the series. But, I have never really been that big of a fan of any of the character’s iterations. That’s just me, though. Anyway, that’s my five best! What’s yours?