The Terminator Movie Ranking: From Best to Worst

The Terminator franchise is a beloved series that has captured the hearts and minds of sci-fi enthusiasts since its inception. Ranking its movies can be subjective, but a common consensus from critical receptions and fan opinions provides a clear order. Here, we break down the series based on their impact, storytelling, and overall reception.

Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991)

Rating: 4 stars

Terminator 2: Judgment Day is widely regarded as a landmark in action and sci-fi cinema. It set new standards in visual effects, storytelling, and performances. Directed by Cameron himself, this film featured groundbreaking visual effects, a compelling story that tied into the broader narrative, and standout performances from Linda Hamilton as Sarah Connor and Arnold Schwarzenegger as the Terminator. With its iconic scenes and memorable lines, it remains the best in the series.

Original Terminator (1984)

Rating: 3.5 stars

The original film, directed by Cameron, is a classic that introduced audiences to the franchise's intriguing premise. Its dark tone and innovative storytelling laid the groundwork for future entries. While not as visually impressive as T2: Judgment Day, this film introduced key elements that have since become iconic in the series, such as the T-800 model and the character of Sarah Connor.

Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines (2003)

Rating: 2.5 stars

While not as acclaimed as the first two films, Rise of the Machines has its moments and maintains the franchise's core themes. This film was criticized for its less coherent plot and somewhat weaker performances but still delivered a few memorable scenes and moments of action. It received mixed reviews, but it contributed to the series' continuity in a less impactful way.

Terminator: Genisys (2015)

Rating: 2 stars

Attempting a reboot with a new timeline, Terminator: Genisys was met with mixed to negative reviews and confusion over its plot. The film brought new characters and a fresh angle but failed to resonate with audiences. It introduced new elements to the franchise but did so in a way that many felt detracted from the original's strengths.

Terminator: Dark Fate (2019)

Rating: 2 stars

Although it brought back key characters and aimed to serve as a direct sequel to T2: Judgment Day, Dark Fate received mixed reviews and struggled at the box office. Many fans view this as a disappointment, as it did not live up to the legacy of the original films. While it attempted to tie everything together, it fell short for many viewers.

Terminator Salvation (2009)

Rating: 1.5 stars

Set in a post-apocalyptic future, this film diverged from the original formula but was criticized for its lack of strong character development and coherence. It failed to live up to the expectations generated by the previous films and did not contribute positively to the franchise's narrative.

Conclusion

This ranking reflects overall critical and audience reception, but individual preferences may vary based on personal taste. Many fans agree that T2: Judgment Day, The Terminator, and Rise of the Machines are the best in the series, with T2: Judgment Day being the standout. Conversely, Salvation, Genisys, and Dark Fate are often cited as the weakest entries.

However, the Terminator franchise is filled with memorable moments and iconic figures. Whether a fan of the first two films or a newcomer to the series, there's much to appreciate and cherish in the series.