Will there be a Terminator 4?

What's the quickest way for a mid-level director to jump to the tentpole group? Jonathan Mostow wagered he could measure up to James Cameron's past work with "Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines." It was a gamble that not only could have jeopardized a promising directing career, but the existence of indie financier Intermedia. Now, that company's head is cautiously wondering if Mostow will say "I'll be back" for a fourth installment.

Opening July 2, "T3" might be the gutsiest venture of the summer, from Moritz Borman's decision to finance the $175 million film, to Arnold Schwarzenegger, Mario Kassar and Andy Vajna tying comebacks and a political career to it. But the big winner might be Mostow, who only a few years ago was dumped from "The Game" and had to battle to direct "Breakdown."

"Jonathan cracked the script and established the right balance of action, storytelling and comedic balance," Borman said. "The picture needs legs -- a second and third weekend -- and Jonathan has given us that chance. A fourth film will be more difficult, but the story opens the door for another and we'll do one as soon as is feasible. We'd like Jonathan back -- if he hasn't gotten too expensive."

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