A 3 1/2 minute CGI video is making its rounds around the Chinese web and Tudou depicts the secret mission of the Terminator taking place at Beijing’s Sanlitun. What begins as a helpless looking “Terminator” robot pan handling for some spare change for a recharge turns into an interesting outcome for the Apple store in Sanlitun.

For those who haven’t watched it, have a quick look. Warning. Not safe for Apple fanboys.

The video combines on-site shooting and CG (computer graphics) animation done by an amateur video-blogger nicknamed “Laxina” on Tudou all by his own efforts, as part of Magilm Pictures independent animator studio.

We reached out to the creator and asked him to share a bit more insight with us:

TUDOU: What was your inspiration behind creating “The Secret Mission Of The Terminator”

LAXINA: I was inspired by the movies “District 9” and “Cloverfield”. I decided to experiment with creating my own piece and fine tuning my CG skills in my spare time from my day job at a gaming company in Beijing.

TUDOU: Why did you choose the Terminator as your main character?

LAXINA: He’s been one of my favorite movie character since I was a teenager.

TUDOU: What kind of camera was used for the shooting of this video?

LAXINA: In order to create the sense of reality, I used a handheld DV recorder instead of professional cameras.

TUDOU: What are some challenges you faces when creating this clip?

LAXINA: Shooting at the mall was challenging – given the non stop shopping crowds and not-so-friendly security guards.  Many asked me whether the video was meant for commercial placements, as there was Uniqlo clothing store, Coke vending machine, Apple store, and Microsoft embedded in the imagery.  No.  Nothing was paid for.  It was a pure experiment simply to entertainment people.

TUDOU: Any interesting behind the scenes stuff you can share with those who’ll be reading this?

LAXINA: Here’s a cool trick. The Coke vending machine and mobile phone charging station in the video was totally added in by me.  They do not exist in the mall!

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