TERMINATOR THEME MUSIC (1984)

by Mark Nobes, chief editor

The first two Terminator movies are definitely in my favourite top 5 film list. The original 80s movie featured this haunting synth theme tune by Brad Fiedel. With that distinctive mechanical drum beat in the background, this unforgettable piece of sci-fi music is a classic.

Arnold Schwarzenegger played the leading role as The Terminator, of course - the cyborg sent back in time to assassinate Sarah Connor. Sarah has only one protector, Kyle Reese, who has also been sent from the future.

The first half of the soundtrack album (rerleased by Enigma Records) was composed by Brad Fiedel, and the majority of the music in the film was actually performed live. Tracks 7 to 11 are by various artists.

So which is best - Terminator 1 or 2? It's a close call, but I just prefer the second movie for its jaw-dropping, liquid metal special effects and faster-paced action. Robert Patrick as the shape-shifting T-1000 was prefectly cast, and scared the hell out of me!

Track Listing (first release)

1. "The Terminator Theme" Brad Fiedel 4:30

2. "Terminator Arrival" Fiedel 3:00

3. "Tunnel Chase" Fiedel 2:50

4. "Love Scene" Fiedel 1:15

5. "Future Remembered" Fiedel 2:40

6. "Factory Chase" Fiedel 3:50

7. "You Can't Do That" (performed by Tahnee Cain & Tryanglz) Ricky Phillips 3:25

8. "Burnin' in the Third Degree" (performed by Tahnee Cain & Tryanglz) T. Cain, Mugs Cain, Dave Amato, Brett Tuggle, Phillips 3:38

9. "Pictures of You" (performed by Jay Ferguson & 16mm) Jay Ferguson 3:58

10. "Photoplay" (performed by Tahnee Cain & Tryanglz) T. Cain, Pug Baker, Jonathan Cain 3:30

11. "Intimacy" (performed by Lin Van Hek) 3:40

Arnold Schwarzenegger in 1984 behind the scenes of The Terminator film
Arnie in 1984