JC
John Connor
Resistance commander trying to protect the future his mother described.
ClearStory FILM GUIDE
Terminator Salvation2009
The future war begins before the legend is complete.
What you need to know
In 2018, human survivors fight Skynet after Judgment Day. John Connor is an important Resistance commander but has not yet become the undisputed leader described by the earlier films.
1 hour 55 minutesSet mainly in the future warContinues the first three films
OPTIONAL REFERENCECharacters, places and useful termsContains story details. Open after watching.
QUICK REMINDER
5 peopleThe only names you need
MW
Marcus Wright
A former death-row prisoner who wakes after Judgment Day with no memory of the intervening years.
KR
Kyle Reese
A teenage survivor who does not yet know he will become John’s father.
BW
Blair Williams
Resistance pilot who trusts Marcus.
KB
Kate Connor
John’s wife and a doctor in the Resistance.
DURING THE FILM
Recap as you go
Choose only a scene you have completed. If you are unsure, wait until you finish watching.
Optional story focusContains story details. Open after watching.
AFTER WATCHING
Key story points
This section contains major spoilers, including the ending.
Content note: Sustained war violence, explosions, human captivity, injury detail, death and strong language.
An unofficial, independently written viewing companion for Terminator Salvation (2009). Not affiliated with or endorsed by the studio or filmmakers. No official images, logos or film artwork are used.