Terminator: Dark Fate (2019)

Last updated:
October 11, 2024

Detailed Summary

The Death of John Connor

The film opens with a flashback to 1998, where Sarah Connor (Linda Hamilton) and her son John (Edward Furlong) are living in Guatemala, having seemingly averted Judgment Day. However, a Terminator (Arnold Schwarzenegger) sent from a different timeline successfully assassinates John.

Introduction of Dani Ramos

In 2020, in Mexico City, factory worker Dani Ramos (Natalia Reyes) and her brother Diego (Diego Boneta) are targeted by a new advanced Terminator, the Rev-9 (Gabriel Luna). The Rev-9 can split into two autonomous units: a liquid metal exterior and a solid endoskeleton.

Arrival of Grace

Grace (Mackenzie Davis), an augmented human soldier from the future, arrives to protect Dani. She has enhanced strength and combat abilities but requires regular medication to stabilize her enhancements.

The Escape

Grace and Dani are pursued by the relentless Rev-9. They are eventually rescued by Sarah Connor, who has been hunting Terminators using coordinates sent to her anonymously.

The Source of the Messages

The trio discovers that the anonymous messages are sent by Carl (Arnold Schwarzenegger), the same Terminator who killed John. Carl has since developed a conscience and is living a quiet life with a human family.

The Plan to Stop Rev-9

Carl joins Grace, Dani, and Sarah in their mission to destroy the Rev-9. They plan to use an EMP device, but it is destroyed during a confrontation. They then head to a military facility to acquire more firepower.

The Final Battle

In a climactic battle at a hydroelectric plant, they manage to trap and destroy the Rev-9 using combined efforts. Grace sacrifices herself, allowing her power source to be used to destroy the Rev-9.

Dani’s Determination

The film ends with Dani vowing to prepare for the future and the impending rise of AI, determined to fight and prevent the dark future she has seen.

Movie Ending

The film concludes with Dani watching over a young Grace, understanding the sacrifices made to save her and the importance of her role in the future. She, alongside Sarah Connor, is resolved to continue the fight against the future threat of AI.

Are There Post-Credits Scenes?

No, “Terminator: Dark Fate” does not have any post-credits scenes.

Type of Movie

This film is a science fiction action thriller, focusing on themes of fate, sacrifice, and the ongoing battle against artificial intelligence.

Cast

Linda Hamilton as Sarah Connor
Arnold Schwarzenegger as Carl / T-800
Mackenzie Davis as Grace
Natalia Reyes as Dani Ramos
Gabriel Luna as Rev-9
Diego Boneta as Diego Ramos
Edward Furlong as John Connor (flashback)

Film Music and Composer

The score was composed by Junkie XL (Tom Holkenborg), featuring intense and dramatic themes that complement the film’s action-packed and suspenseful narrative.

Filming Locations

Madrid, Spain: Various scenes involving the chase sequences and cityscapes.
Mexico City, Mexico: The initial scenes introducing Dani and her family.
Budapest, Hungary: Various action sequences and the final battle.

These locations helped create a realistic and immersive setting for the film.

Awards and Nominations

Visual Effects Society Awards: Nominated for Outstanding Effects Simulations in a Photoreal Feature.
Saturn Awards: Nominated for Best Science Fiction Film and Best Actress (Linda Hamilton).

Behind the Scenes Insights

Linda Hamilton returned to her iconic role as Sarah Connor, undergoing extensive physical training to reprise the role convincingly.
The film disregards the events of previous sequels after “Terminator 2: Judgment Day,” acting as a direct continuation of that story.
Tim Miller, known for directing “Deadpool,” brought a fresh and energetic style to the action sequences.

Inspirations and References

Technological Paranoia: Reflects contemporary concerns about the rise of artificial intelligence and autonomous systems.
Fate vs. Free Will: Explores the ongoing theme of whether the future is predetermined or can be changed through human action.

Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes

There are no significant alternate endings. Deleted scenes included in various home releases offer more character interactions and background information on the future war.

Memorable Scenes and Quotes

Key Scenes

The Opening Sequence: The shocking and emotional assassination of John Connor.
The Car Chase: An intense pursuit through the streets of Mexico City with the Rev-9.
The Reunion with Carl: The surprising return and redemption arc of the T-800.
The Final Battle: The climactic showdown at the hydroelectric plant.

Iconic Quotes

“I’ll be back.” – Carl, a nod to Schwarzenegger’s famous catchphrase.
“There is no fate but what we make for ourselves.” – Sarah Connor
“You’re the future, Dani. You’re my mission.” – Grace

Easter Eggs and Hidden Details

The film features numerous callbacks to “Terminator 2: Judgment Day,” including familiar lines and visual motifs.
The Rev-9’s ability to split into two units is a nod to the T-1000’s liquid metal capabilities combined with the endoskeleton of the original Terminator.

Trivia

The film was intended to reboot the franchise by focusing on new characters while honoring the legacy of the original films.
Linda Hamilton’s return was highly anticipated by fans and brought a sense of continuity and closure to Sarah Connor’s story.
The film aimed to address modern fears about AI, making the story relevant to contemporary audiences.

Why Watch?

“Terminator: Dark Fate” is a thrilling continuation of the Terminator saga, offering intense action, innovative special effects, and a compelling narrative about the fight against a seemingly inevitable future. It explores deep themes of fate, survival, and resistance, making it a must-watch for fans of science fiction and action.