Introduction
Science fiction has become dime a dozen these days with every other filmmaker trying their hands on the same, irrespective of the outcome of those films. But what really revolutionized the sci-fi genre was James Cameron's Terminator (1984), and more so- Terminator 2 Judgement Day (1991). A film so iconic, that besides holding up even after 34 years of it's release, people consider this to be the end of the franchise, in spite of the fact that four more Terminator films have released post 1991! Such is the level of iconic-ness (if a word like that actually exists :), that the legendary video-game GTA San Andreas, published by American Publishers 'Rockstar Games', has a mission, heavily inspired by Terminator 2's sewer chase sequence! Here's me discussing several aspects of Terminator 2, as it completes 34 long years today! The film starred Arnold Schwarzenegger, Linda Hamilton, Edward Furlong, and Robert Patrick in the lead roles, and was one of the most expensive films ever made at the time of it's release.
P.S- A formal spoiler warning but it probably won't matter!
Basic Plot
The AI Skynet has devastated human lives on Earth in the year 2029 and has sent an advanced T-1000 Terminator to kill Sarah Connor's son, John Connor. Also sent back in time is the T-800 Terminator to protect Sarah and her son John.
Positives
Direction and Screenplay
The writing and direction is what makes this film all the more fun and engaging. The decision of casting Arnold as the protagonist after having played the antagonist in the prequel, seemed to be a wisely strategized decision, that worked wonders! This is one of the very few films which effortlessly deals with a gripping screenplay and explosive action. While the core plot is quite Terminator-ish, the James Cameron made sure that the idea repetitions from the earlier film won't cause any plot fatigue here. I particularly love how director James Cameron set the sequences up, with suspense being the element to start with, continuing with slow-mo character entries (freaking loveable!) followed by action as the suspense divulged seamlessly into thrills. As fascinating as it sounds, you could really see this particular format being tweaked according to the context of the screenplay and used in every major action sequence that this film has- absolute commercial filmmaking! Talking about the action- it's designed and executed beautifully. Several subtextual undertones, like- the T-1000 using it's shape-shifting mechanism to gain an edge over others, stylish punchline dialogues, and a healthy but digestible doze of science, land severely in the film's favor and that's a plus. Finally, James Cameron absolutely nailed this film when he decided to incorporate humanitarian values in this film. I mean, who would've thought that a film like Terminator 2, which is all about robots and AI, will have such core human values and emotions? But Cameron being Cameron, presented Schwarzenegger's T-800 as a robot, who slowly turns into a mentor, a protector, and most importantly- a father, as the film progressed. Learning one-liners, sign languages and understanding human psychology were some of the intricate artistic nuances that made this film stand out. An AI powered metallic robot prototype who goes to extreme limits to protect his family- very Cameron-esque indeed!
Performances and Special Effects
While one may find it useless to analyze performances in a film where both the hero and the villain are robots- it's not really what you think. Obviously the straight-faced robotic madness is what you're in for, the other detailed aspects are worth mentioning as well. While Linda Hamilton and Edward Furlong perform commendably as the Connor mother-son duo, it's Robert Patrick and obviously Schwarzenegger who steal the limelight. Patrick is all friendly and decent with others, whose swift transformation into a relentless killing machine once he sees John Connor is appreciable. You get to see more of his commendable performance when you see him not flickering his eyes while shooting the pistol, which isn't easy at all. He gives you the error-free mechanical vibe who is only interested in killing his target and completing his job. On the contrary, Schwarzenegger is more of a stylish macho guy, who rides a Harley Fatboy, can fire and reload a shotgun using only one hand, can learn one-liners, listens to the Connor duo, and finally, slightly resonates with human emotions. In short, Arnold is Arnold; the sharp witted motorcycle guy, with a gym fit body and a leather jacket. And when these two forces meet, it's nothing short of phenomenal!
Talking about special effects, well- it's the highlight of this film and rightfully so! The combining of special effects and prosthetics to showcase the shape-shifting ability of T-1000 was considered extremely ahead of time at the time of it's release. The CGI showing the T-1000 recovering from gunshots were cool too. The visual extravaganza comes towards the end of the film and with all those special effects and action and CGI and metallic disintegration of both the Terminators coming into play, you really do understand why this film is considered to have set a visual effects benchmark back in the day.
Underwhelming Aspects
Knick Knacks
While there are no major cons, you do realize that the film is predictable. I know there are plenty of twists to keep you hooked throughout but that doesn't mean that you would not have even an inch of an idea about the ending whatsoever. However, you do realize the fact that this film isn't meant to be unpredictable as a whole by any means and thus, the predictable nature is something that is passable. There are portions where you feel that the writing could've been tighter, but again, there's plenty of other elements to redeem the loose ends for you.
Conclusion
Terminator 2 Judgement Day is your explosive sci-fi action thriller that's meant for people of every generation. Even if I keep the legacy and the strong escapism factor aside, this movie will still fascinate you with it's cast performances, explosive action, stylized direction, good screenplay, sciency tech, and a well placed drama in the climax! You will surely be surprised to witness so much detailing in a commercial action film. In fact, the drama that soars up at the end, is so well written and executed, that you can't help but remain engrossed in whatever is happening. The climax, especially when the theme enters, is enough to make grown ups feel sad, and while people consider Titanic's ending to be the most saddening of all, let me tell you, this can feel even better! That being said, this film serves as the grand-dad of all sci-fi actioners out there, and rightfully so! 'I want your clothes, boots, and motorcycle', says Schwarzenegger, and while he gets what he wanted, he also got acclaim, box office, and a legendary status! Comment down what you loved the most about this film, while I work upon other posts. Till then, 'hasta la vista baby'!
Watch Out For
- Cast Performances
- CGI work
- Action
- Climax
WTF Rating
8.5/10