How Terminator’s New AI ‘Villain’ Could Change Everything About T2

How Terminator's New AI 'Villain' Could Change Everything About T2

As a devoted fan of the Terminator franchise, I am thrilled to learn about “Terminator Zero,” Netflix’s upcoming anime series that delves deeper into the complexities of artificial intelligence and human nature. The introduction of a new AI character named Kokoro, voiced by the talented Rosario Dawson, has me intrigued and excited for the possibilities this storyline could bring.


In the surprising announcement of a new anime project, Netflix unveils “Terminator Zero,” an upcoming sci-fi series with an intriguing twist. The story revolves around Malcolm Lee (André Holland), a Japanese AI scientist, who is creating an advanced AI named Kokoro (Rosario Dawson). Initially appearing as an adversary, the nature of Kokoro’s role within the Terminator saga remains uncertain. As fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming sci-fi sequel, “Terminator Zero” might challenge our understanding of the franchise, particularly in light of the groundbreaking “Terminator 2: Judgment Day.”

In the film “T2: Terminator 2,” the apocalyptic event known as Judgment Day is seemingly postponed. However, in the storyline of “Terminator Zero,” set in 1997, nuclear destruction was initially predicted to occur. A soldier named Eiko (played by Sonoya Mizuno), is sent back from 2022 to safeguard Malcolm and his family, and prevent Kokoro from launching a weapon. This implies that Kokoro will eventually turn into a menacing force similar to Skynet, as the Resistance aims to keep it non-existent. Simultaneously, Skynet has dispatched a Terminator (voiced by Timothy Olyphant) to eliminate Malcolm. Given the desire of all parties for Kokoro’s absence, there are intriguing narrative possibilities that can emerge from this situation.

“The storyline of ‘Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles’ titled ‘Terminator Zero’ contradicts the hopeful ending of ‘T2’ by implying that Judgment Day will indeed occur in 1997, despite the intricate and complex history of the Terminator series. However, an interesting twist the show could introduce is the presence of a beneficial artificial intelligence instead of a harmful one.”

How will Terminator Zero’s Kokoro lead humanity into an unknown future?

How Terminator's New AI 'Villain' Could Change Everything About T2

In “T2: Judgment Day,” Sarah and John Connor manage to evade a nuclear disaster caused by Skynet. However, as revealed in “Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines,” they merely postponed the destruction. The events of “Terminator Zero” unfold in 1997, implying that Judgment Day is coming soon. Furthermore, the narrative includes a conflict between humans and Skynet from the year 2022.

As a gamer, I can tell you that if Skynet deploys a Terminator to eliminate Malcolm to prevent the emergence of Kokoro, it’s clear that this new AI is a significant threat, not just for the Resistance trying to protect him, but also for Skynet. While Skynet sees humanity as a pestilence to eradicate, Kokoro could potentially bring about a more tranquil future.

Netflix describes the series as follows: Malcolm faces ethical dilemmas as he brings Kokoro into existence. He might resemble Miles Dyson from “T2,” who inadvertently led to Skynet’s creation but later aided Sarah’s team in its destruction. Kokoro offers a fresh perspective on the rogue AI theme, and Malcolm could add depth to the “creator with noble intentions” archetype. He intends to create an AI to challenge Skynet, but his actions may have unintended consequences. It remains uncertain whether Kokoro is an ally or enemy. In “Terminator Zero,” fans can witness this intriguing development on Netflix starting August 29.

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2024-07-17 21:59