Terminator 2: Judgment Day - Review

"Come with me if you want to live" – A review of Terminator 2: Judgement Day. 

Released in 1991, Terminator 2: Judgement Day has truly left its mark on the science fiction genre. Memorable performances, thought-provoking themes and groundbreaking visual effects for the time continue to captivate audiences' decades after its release, but does it live up to the original film?

Terminator 2 picks up years after the first film. Sarah Connor is now mother to John Connor, future leader of the human resistance, and Skynet have sent a more advanced, nearly indestructible T-1000 Terminator back in time to kill John as a child. In order to fight back, a T-800 model Terminator – Schwarzenegger's Terminator – is reprogrammed and tasked with protecting John. What follows is a relentless, emotionally charged chase as enemies, old and new, collide and threaten the fate of humanity.

The performances are once again fantastic. Arnold Schwarzenegger is transformed from the menacing presence in the first film to an unexpectedly endearing protector, bringing nuance and subtle humour to the role. Linda Hamilton is just as memorable as Sarah Connor, coming across as vulnerable yet fiercely determined. In his debut role, Edward Furlong is rebellious and hopeful as John Connor, whilst Rober Patrick's T-1000 is menacing and stoic, a chilling villain. The chemistry between the leads drives the emotional impact and treats the audience to characters to root both for and against.

Despite the film being decades old, the visual effects are still impressive even now. The use of CGI for the T-1000 set a new standard in the industry, and it genuinely still looks great today. The action is relentless, yet the emotional core is still protected, especially the bond between the Terminator and young John Connor.

There's very little to criticise in this film. It's quite long, and perhaps certain action sequences could have been slightly cut down to improve the pacing, and sure, the reliance on chase sequences can feel a little repetitive after a while.

With that being said, I absolutely love this film, and I would argue that it is perhaps better than the original. It blends heart, suspense and humour, creating a benchmark for action and science fiction. Whether you're watching for the first time or revisiting, this is a must watch for sci fi fans.

Written by Tam Page

Posted by Mr. Tomney

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