Terminator: Dark Fate sparks conversation about the importance of Latinx representation in Hollywood, but does the film live up to its promise?


“Terminator: Dark Fate” attempts to break new ground in the iconic franchise by introducing a predominantly Latinx cast, but ultimately falls short of its potential. Directed by Tim Miller, the film follows a lethal new Terminator sent to eliminate a young Mexican woman, Dani Ramos, portrayed by Colombian actress Natalia Reyes.
Alongside her is Mackenzie Davis as the enhanced super soldier, Grace, and the return of Linda Hamilton as the iconic Sarah Connor, now more badass than ever. Despite its attempts at inclusivity and progressive casting choices, “Dark Fate” struggles to rise above its familiar formula. While Linda Hamilton injects energy into the film with her return, the characters feel one-dimensional and underdeveloped.
The action sequences, though visually striking, fail to compensate for the lack of depth in character arcs. One notable aspect of “Dark Fate” is the casting of Mexican-American actor Gabriel Luna as the new Terminator, adding a refreshing dimension to the franchise’s lineup of antagonists. The decision to set part of the film in Mexico City and include Latin American stars from across the continent is a commendable attempt at diversifying representation in Hollywood.
However, the film’s commitment to inclusivity falters in its execution. While the setting and characters provide a platform for Latinx representation, there are noticeable shortcomings in language authenticity and accent consistency. Natalia Reyes, who hails from Colombia, speaks with a Colombian accent rather than a Mexican one, highlighting missed opportunities for authentic portrayal.
Nevertheless, for many Latinx viewers, “Terminator: Dark Fate” marks a significant step forward in Hollywood representation. The inclusion of Latinx performers and the portrayal of characters like Dani Ramos and her brother as hardworking individuals striving for survival without falling into stereotypes is a positive sign of progress.
Diego Boneta, who plays Dani’s brother and hails from Mexico City himself, served as an impromptu dialect coach on set, emphasizing the personal significance of the film’s portrayal of Latinx culture and identity.
In the end, while “Terminator: Dark Fate” may not fully capitalize on its groundbreaking casting choices, it serves as a reminder of the importance of diverse representation in mainstream cinema. As the franchise continues to evolve, there is hope that future installments will build upon the foundation laid by “Dark Fate” and further amplify the voices of underrepresented communities in Hollywood.
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