Back and better than ever, Terminator Genisys reminds the world just why the original Terminator was such a hit and now considered a classic. The newest installment combines modern day special effects and an old plot with a new twist, bringing plenty of attention back to the series.

Beginning in the future war between the Resistance and Skynet, John Connor (Jason Clarke) sends Kyle Reese (Jai Courtney) back in time to 1984 to save Sarah Connor (Emilia Clarke), John’s mother. Copying elements from the first film, the twist in the plot becomes obvious when Kyle quickly learns that Sarah is fully able to save herself and Kyle with the help of Pops (Arnold Schwarzenegger), a reprogrammed T-800 that saved and raised Sarah from when she was young. Together the trio go on a quest to stop Judgment Day before it ever begins.

While it isn’t necessary to watch the four films preceding this one, I do suggest at least watching the first for basis purposes. It’ll make life easier, trust me.

One of the best things about new additions to older series or reboots is being able to see the films with modern technology – better costumes, better make-up, better computer graphics. Making up for the disaster of recent films (cough, Terminator Salvation cough) while clearly being sequel bait, Terminator Genisys utilizes its capability of advanced graphics to pay homage to James Cameron’s first two films.

There were many references to the first film, which is relatively understandable considering this movie was a new take on it, but there was a lot that was different that I felt could have been emphasized more. Leaving unanswered questions and an open ending, sequel bait describes it perfectly at moments.

Most of the time graphics and action can distract me from reading into a story too much. Having three or four types of Terminators in the story, each from its own time and movie made the film that much more enjoyable. Despite the serious homage and slight reboot vibe given off, I enjoyed the movie immensely.

Rating: A+