Terminator: Dark Fate is notable for bringing back the dream team of writer James Cameron with original stars Linda Hamilton and Arnold Schwarzenegger. The film, which is now in theaters, places the franchise veterans alongside exciting newcomers who bring fresh life to the classic tale. Hamilton and Schwarzenegger sat down with Screen Rant to share what’s changed in the intervening years since Terminator first premiered, as well as what it was like to work alongside the younger cast.

Amazing job. This Terminator movie is exactly what I wanted. First question: what was it about the script that drew you guys back into this project?

I don’t want to spoil anything, but you guys have a different relationship in this film. Can you talk to me about how Sarah views Carl?

Arnold Schwarzenegger: Well, for me, it was just a story. When [James Cameron] told me the story, and when he told me that Linda Hamilton will be back, I said, “I’m in.”

It was just that the story was different; the character was evolving. The Terminator, the T-800 model, the confrontations that he has in the movie; the big challenges; the other Terminators, the Rev-9s or whatever you call them, with the various different abilities. They came up with some really great ways of entertaining people and creating action. I thought the whole thing was really great.

You guys made the first film in 1984. Are you surprised where technology actually is in 2019? And what piece of technology do you think will lead to humanity’s actual Dark Fate?

Linda Hamilton: Can’t give you any spoilers, but I can say that Sarah is in a very, very dark place. A woman without a mission; a woman without a son

So, when she comes into contact with the Terminator, there’s every reason to want to kill him. Because she’s only existing to wreak vengeance on all the machines, and she’s not a real big fan of humanity either. So, she’s a woman that’s lost and black of heart. And that’s an interesting journey to start with as a character.

At least that we know of. 

Arnold Schwarzenegger: I’m amazed when I think back. In 1984, the movie came out; Terminator. And people said, “This is a science fiction film. None of this is going to be reality. This is just imaginary stuff of the future.” And now everything has become reality. So, that is really amazing.

The only thing that has not happened yet is that machines have become self-aware.

James Cameron’s back, obviously, and legacy sequel movies are a thing now. Any chance that you’d be up for doing a legacy movie sequel for the Last Action Hero or True Lies?

Arnold Schwarzenegger: That we know of exactly. But the rest of it is all happening right now. That’s the direction we’re going, so what those films show is reality based and James Cameron really has been brilliant to predict that.

And Linda, the physicality in this movie – all the women are so badass. You guys are amazing.

Arnold Schwarzenegger: It could be. It’s always up to the fans; if they demand to see another movie like that.

If a script is great, I do it.

Can you can you talk to me about working with Mackenzie and Natalia, and what they brought out of could?

Linda Hamilton: [sneezes] Yes.

Arnold Schwarzenegger: Bless you.

Linda Hamilton: Thank you. I think I’m good.

You guys are amazing. Thank you so much for a great Terminator.

Linda Hamilton:  Yes. They brought their best games, and their best game equals mine. So, every day on set, we just elevated each other. And at any given moment, two of us would be looking at the third going, “How are you doing that? How are you doing that?” over and again.

We had different skill sets. But they are extraordinary women and fierce fighters and dedicated actors, and they are my dream team.

More: Mackenzie Davis & Natalia Reyes Interview for Terminator: Dark Fate

  • Terminator: Dark Fate Release Date: 2019-11-01