Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines is a 2003 American science fiction action film directed by Jonathan Mostow. It is the third installment in the Terminator franchise, starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, Nick Stahl, Claire Danes, and Kristanna Loken. The film picks up the story years after Terminator 2, following John Connor as he confronts the unavoidable reality of Judgment Day and a new, advanced Terminator.
The film's plot revolves around John Connor (Nick Stahl), now in his early twenties and living off the grid. He remains haunted by the knowledge of a future war between humans and Skynet. Despite the belief that Judgment Day was prevented in 1997, John lives with the constant fear that Skynet is still out there, waiting to strike. His fears are confirmed when Skynet sends a new Terminator to eliminate him and his future allies.
This new Terminator is the T-X (Kristanna Loken), a more advanced and lethal machine than its predecessors. The T-X possesses a liquid metal exterior, a virtually indestructible endoskeleton, and the ability to control other machines, making it a formidable threat. To protect John and his future wife, Kate Brewster, the Resistance sends back a reprogrammed T-850 Terminator (Arnold Schwarzenegger).
As the story progresses, the Terminator reveals a grim truth: John and Sarah Connor's actions only delayed Judgment Day, and it is now set to occur. The group sets out to prevent Skynet from activating, leading them to Kate's father, General Robert Brewster, who oversees the development of Skynet. However, they discover that Skynet is a virus designed to take over the world's computer systems, leading to the launch of nuclear missiles.
Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines received mixed reviews from critics upon its release. While praised for its action sequences and Arnold Schwarzenegger's performance, the film was criticized for its plot and lack of originality compared to the previous installments. Despite the mixed reception, the film was a commercial success, grossing over $433 million worldwide against a production budget of $187 million.
The film's production faced several challenges, including Arnold Schwarzenegger's salary demands and the departure of James Cameron, who had directed the first two Terminator films. The film's ending, which depicts the inevitable arrival of Judgment Day, sparked debate among fans and critics. It effectively set the stage for future installments in the Terminator franchise. The film is also notable for being one of the early tentpole films to be released in the summer blockbuster season.