Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines

REVIEW
Totally unnecessary but surprisingly entertaining, this sequel finds Arnold fighting a female (or female-shaped, anyway) enemy, while still protecting John Connor. Sarah (played by Linda Hamilton) is sorely missed this time, and the whole thing has a somewhat strained, contrived "sequelitis" feel to it. The good news is that the film has a good sense of humor about itself (Arnold's de rigeur search for clothing — especially his sunglasses — is a real hoot), and the action is great, most notably the first big chase, which is nothing short of terrific. There's also a witty cameo from a veteran of the first two films, and an unexpected ending. Schwarzeneggar and Danes are quite good, though Stahl (standing in for Furlong as John Connor) seems a bit ill at ease. Director Mostow is no James Cameron, but he's no slouch, either; the film moves at a fast clip, and, all things considered, is pretty darned good. As science fiction, Terminator 3 is marginal at best; as a dumb-fun action flick, however, you could do a helluva lot worse.