If you loved the high-octane action and gripping sci-fi storyline of 'Terminator: Dark Fate' (2019), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 movies and TV shows that deliver similar adrenaline-pumping thrills, futuristic battles, and complex characters. Whether you're a die-hard fan of the Terminator franchise or just looking for your next binge-worthy watch, these recommendations will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Terminator (1984)
Description: As the original film in the franchise, 'The Terminator' shares all core elements with 'Dark Fate': the unstoppable killing machine, the human resistance, and the fight for survival in a future dominated by AI. Both films established the signature blend of sci-fi and action that defines the series.
Fact: The film was made for just $


RoboCop (1987)
Description: 'RoboCop' shares with 'Terminator: Dark Fate' the theme of man versus machine, though in this case the machine is a human transformed into a cyborg. Both films critique corporate control and feature intense action sequences. The tone of both films balances dark themes with moments of humor.
Fact: The film was initially rated X for violence before cuts were made. Peter Weller had to learn specific movements to mimic robotic motion. The iconic ED-209 robot was a stop-motion puppet that frequently malfunctioned during filming.


Total Recall (1990)
Description: Both 'Total Recall' and 'Terminator: Dark Fate' explore themes of identity and reality in a futuristic setting. They feature protagonists who discover hidden truths about themselves while battling powerful forces. The films share a similar blend of science fiction and action, with elaborate set pieces and practical effects.
Fact: Arnold Schwarzenegger performed most of his own stunts. The Mars sets were among the largest ever built at the time. The film's famous three-breasted woman was created using a body double and prosthetics.


Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991)
Description: This direct predecessor to 'Dark Fate' shares its themes of fate, family, and the human spirit overcoming technological threats. Both films feature advanced CGI (revolutionary for their respective times) and strong female leads in Sarah Connor. The action sequences in both films set new standards for the genre.
Fact: It was the most expensive film ever made at the time ($100 million). The liquid metal T-1000 effects took over a year to complete. Linda Hamilton trained intensely to transform her physique for the role.


The Matrix (1999)
Description: Similar to 'Terminator: Dark Fate', 'The Matrix' explores themes of artificial intelligence, human resistance against machines, and dystopian futures. Both films feature strong female protagonists (Sarah Connor in 'Dark Fate' and Trinity in 'The Matrix') and high-octane action sequences. The visual aesthetics of both films include cyberpunk elements and advanced CGI for their respective times.
Fact: 'The Matrix' was heavily influenced by Japanese anime and Hong Kong action films. The famous 'bullet time' effect was achieved using 120 still cameras and was revolutionary for its time. Keanu Reeves performed most of his own stunts after extensive martial arts training.


Alita: Battle Angel (2019)
Description: Similar to 'Terminator: Dark Fate', 'Alita' features a powerful female cyborg protagonist in a dystopian future. Both films explore themes of identity and humanity in a world where technology and biology merge. The action sequences in both films showcase cutting-edge CGI and motion capture technology.
Fact: James Cameron was originally set to direct before handing the project to Robert Rodriguez. Alita's eyes were made larger to stay true to the manga inspiration. The motorball sequences required extensive choreography and CGI work.


Terminator Salvation (2009)
Description: Like 'Dark Fate', 'Salvation' explores the future war between humans and machines first hinted at in earlier films. Both films feature advanced CGI depictions of mechanical enemies and focus on the human resistance's struggle. The post-apocalyptic settings of both films are similarly bleak and war-torn.
Fact: Christian Bale's infamous on-set rant was due to a crew member walking into his line of sight during filming. The film was originally planned as the start of a new trilogy. Arnold Schwarzenegger's likeness was digitally recreated for a cameo.


Terminator Genisys (2015)
Description: Both 'Genisys' and 'Dark Fate' attempt to reboot the franchise with new timelines and characters while maintaining core elements. They feature updated versions of classic characters and explore alternate futures. The films share a focus on next-generation visual effects to depict their mechanical antagonists.
Fact: The film's time travel mechanics were carefully plotted on a whiteboard during production. Emilia Clarke studied Linda Hamilton's performance to prepare for Sarah Connor. The young Arnold Schwarzenegger was created using facial reconstruction technology.


Edge of Tomorrow (2014)
Description: Like 'Terminator: Dark Fate', 'Edge of Tomorrow' features a relentless, nearly unstoppable mechanical enemy and a protagonist who must evolve to defeat it. Both films combine sci-fi elements with military action and feature strong female characters who are instrumental to the protagonist's success.
Fact: The film's original title was 'All You Need Is Kill'. Tom Cruise performed many of his own stunts despite the heavy armor. The alien designs were inspired by Japanese anime and manga.


Blade Runner 2049 (2017)
Description: Like 'Terminator: Dark Fate', 'Blade Runner 2049' deals with themes of artificial life and its implications for humanity. Both films feature a dystopian future where the line between human and machine is blurred. The visual style of both films is dark and atmospheric, with a focus on futuristic cityscapes and advanced technology.
Fact: The film took over two years to complete post-production. Director Denis Villeneuve insisted on practical effects whenever possible, using miniatures for many cityscapes. Ryan Gosling's character was originally written as a replicant, but this was changed during production.
