The Terminator is a science fiction film franchise that began with the release of the first film in 1984, directed by James Cameron and starring Arnold Schwarzenegger. The franchise has since expanded to include multiple sequels, television series, comics, and video games. The Terminator movies are known for their action-packed plots, futuristic settings, and the iconic character of the Terminator, portrayed by Schwarzenegger.

The original film, titled "The Terminator," introduces a dystopian future in which artificially intelligent machines known as Terminators are waging war against humanity. These Terminators are sent back in time to prevent the birth of John Connor, a future resistance leader. The first movie follows Sarah Connor (played by Linda Hamilton) as she is targeted by a Terminator sent from the future. A human soldier named Kyle Reese (played by Michael Biehn) is also sent back in time to protect her.

The sequel, "Terminator 2: Judgment Day," released in 1991, takes place several years after the events of the first film. In this installment, a more advanced Terminator, the T-1000, is sent back in time to eliminate John Connor as a child. The reprogrammed T-800 Terminator from the future, played by Arnold Schwarzenegger, is also sent back to protect him. This film is highly regarded for its groundbreaking visual effects and action sequences.

The franchise continued with several more films, including "Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines" (2003), "Terminator Salvation" (2009), and "Terminator Genisys" (2015). These movies explore different timelines, alternate futures, and the ongoing battle between humans and machines.

In addition to the films, there have been television series such as "Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles" (2008-2009), which expands on the characters and events of the films.

The Terminator franchise has had a significant impact on popular culture, influencing numerous other films, TV shows, and video games. It has also become synonymous with Arnold Schwarzenegger's career, and his portrayal of the T-800 Terminator has become one of his most iconic roles