SC
Sarah Connor
A waitress who does not yet know why the future depends on her.
ClearStory FILM GUIDE
The Terminator1984
One target. Two travellers. One future waiting to be born.
What you need to know
In 1984 Los Angeles, an apparently human killer begins murdering women named Sarah Connor. A second man, Kyle Reese, is desperately trying to find the same young woman first.
1 hour 47 minutesThe first Terminator filmMain story set in 1984
OPTIONAL REFERENCECharacters, places and useful termsContains story details. Open after watching.
QUICK REMINDER
4 peopleThe only names you need
KR
Kyle Reese
A soldier sent back from the future to protect Sarah.
T
The Terminator
A relentless T-800 machine sent to kill Sarah.
EH
Ed Traxler and Hal Vukovich
Police detectives investigating the Sarah Connor murders.
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 violence, shootings, deaths, nudity, sex, strong language and frightening pursuit.
An unofficial, independently written viewing companion for The Terminator (1984). Not affiliated with or endorsed by the studio or filmmakers. No official images, logos or film artwork are used.