Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991)
Set ten years after the events of the original, James Cameron’s classic sci-fi action flick tells the story of a second attempt to get rid of rebellion leader John Connor, this time targeting the boy himself. However, the rebellion has sent a reprogrammed terminator to protect Connor.
Details
Budget
$102,000,000
Rating
8/10 (13165 votes)
Status
Released
Production Companies
Carolco Pictures, Pacific Western, Lightstorm Entertainment, Le Studio Canal+
About Terminator 2: Judgment Day
Released in 1991, "Terminator 2: Judgment Day" is a science fiction action film that continues the story set ten years after the original movie. Directed by James Cameron, the plot revolves around a second attempt to eliminate John Connor, who is destined to lead the human resistance against sentient machines in the future. This time, the target is a younger John Connor, and to protect him, the resistance sends a reprogrammed Terminator.
The film explores themes of artificial intelligence, time travel, and the ethical dilemmas of humanity's future. It features high-stakes action sequences, including car chases and conflicts between humans and machines. The narrative also delves into the complex relationship between John Connor and his robotic protector, as well as the evolving character of Sarah Connor, who is now institutionalized due to her prior experiences and warnings about the future. The movie's critical reception was largely positive, with high ratings from critics and audiences.
"Terminator 2: Judgment Day" is recognized for its innovative visual effects, particularly the liquid metal T-1000, which represented a significant advancement in CGI at the time. The film combines action and thriller elements with a science fiction premise, maintaining a consistent focus on the man vs. machine conflict. Its influence extended beyond its release, setting a benchmark for action and special effects in the early 1990s.
Why you might be searching for Terminator 2: Judgment Day
People often search for "Terminator 2: Judgment Day" due to its iconic liquid metal villain, the T-1000, and the memorable catchphrases associated with Arnold Schwarzenegger's character. The film is also frequently recalled for its groundbreaking special effects and intense action sequences.
What reviewers are saying
One reviewer describes "Terminator 2" as one of the greatest films of all time, recommending it to fans of science fiction, action, and even comedy, praising its stunts, cast, and story for tackling the fate of humanity.
Read the full reviewA review notes that the film improves upon the original by presenting Arnold as a caring robot, and features an enhanced liquid terminator, improved special effects, and iconic moments, while still acknowledging minor flaws like John's voice cracking.
Read the full reviewAnother reviewer considers this the last good "Terminator" movie, highlighting Robert Patrick's menacing portrayal of the T-1000 and Edward Furlong's convincing performance as John Connor, along with Sarah Connor's transformation into a capable heroine.
Read the full reviewOne viewer calls "Terminator 2" the greatest action movie ever made, emphasizing that its action scenes, set pieces, and visual effects remain impressive and hold up well even today.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Common questions about finding and identifying movies
You can stream "Terminator 2: Judgment Day" on services like Amazon Prime Video, fuboTV, Paramount Plus, and YouTube TV. It's also available to rent or buy on platforms such as Amazon Video and Apple TV, and can be streamed for free with a library card on Kanopy. You can also purchase the movie on DVD or Blu-ray from various retailers, and in some locations, tickets are available to see it in theaters.
"Terminator 2: Judgment Day" is a science fiction film and is not based on a true story. It is a sequel to the 1984 film "The Terminator" and part of the "Terminator" franchise, featuring a malevolent artificial intelligence called Skynet sending a Terminator back in time to kill John Connor, the future leader of the human resistance.
In the climax of "Terminator 2: Judgment Day", the T-1000, Sarah and John, and the reprogrammed T-800 end up in a steel mill after destroying Cyberdyne Systems. The T-800 eventually manages to push the T-1000 into a vat of molten steel, where it disintegrates. To prevent Skynet's creation, the T-800 sacrifices itself by being lowered into the molten steel, as it contains the advanced technology that could be used to build Skynet, leaving John and Sarah to face an unknown future with renewed hope.
"Terminator 2: Judgment Day" was released to critical acclaim, with many reviewers praising its revolutionary special effects and thrilling action sequences. Critics also noted the film's emotional depth, particularly in the relationship between John Connor and the reprogrammed T-800, which serves as a father figure to him.