“Terminator Zero” is an animation series created by Mattson Tomlin. It stars Rosario Dawson, Timothy Olyphant and Sonoya Mizuno in the English version; and Yuuya Uchida, Hiro Shimono and Saori Hayami in the Japanese version.
In the mythos of the Terminator movie franchise, August 29, 2024, is a date etched in infamy. On that day, the malevolent artificial intelligence SkyNet gained sentience and commenced autonomous decision-making, triggering a catastrophic nuclear conflict between machines and humanity.
Have you marked today’s date? Netflix has—deliberately and with calculated precision—chosen this day to debut a breathtaking Japanese animated series conceived by Mattson Tomlin. The timing is no coincidence, aligning perfectly with the lore.
Don’t anticipate a rehash of the classic narrative initiated by James Cameron. This series, while equally spectacular and action-packed, ventures into a realm more reminiscent of manga and anime: contemplative and, dare we say, philosophical.
Plot
The narrative unfolds through a series of flashbacks, transporting us to the pivotal year of 2024 when the apocalyptic events transpired. “Terminator Zero” rewinds the clock to the moment the rebels managed to hack into SkyNet and its time-travel apparatus, aiming to turn the tide of war once and for all. This is the juncture when they dispatched the inaugural Terminator with a mission to terminate Sarah Connor.
This time, however, we witness the saga from the perspective of the rebels who make the audacious decision to send a human back in time, tasked with thwarting the Terminator’s lethal mission.
About the Series
This is quintessential Japanese anime, but it intertwines seamlessly with the original storyline conceived by James Cameron. The series serves as a homage to the first two iconic films of the franchise—the Cameron classics—yet it carves out its own distinct identity, both stylistically and narratively. Terminator aficionados will encounter something refreshingly different: an anime of exceptional quality, each frame meticulously crafted.
“Terminator Zero” injects new life into the saga, particularly in terms of pacing, and revitalizes the franchise with a fresh perspective, while staying true to its roots. It adeptly raises pertinent contemporary questions, especially in an era where artificial intelligence has transcended fiction and become a tangible reality.
Our Opinion
This series is a thoughtful and profound addition to the Terminator legacy. With reverence and a deep sense of respect, Mattson Tomlin enriches the saga without detracting from its essence. He offers a more introspective take, balancing contemplative moments with high-octane action.
“Terminator Zero” is a masterful blend of action and reflection, presented in an exceptional animated series now available on Netflix.
Where to Watch “Terminator Zero”
