Release: 1991-07-03
Runtime: 2h 17m (137 minutes)
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.
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Genres: Action, Thriller, Science Fiction
Cast: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Robert Patrick, Linda Hamilton, more
Arnold Schwarzenegger
as The Terminator
Robert Patrick
as T-1000
Linda Hamilton
as Sarah Connor
Xander Berkeley
as Todd Voight
Dean Norris
as SWAT Team Leader
Joe Morton
as Miles Dyson
Edward Furlong
as John Connor
Nancy Fish
as Roadside Window Woman (Special Edition Restoration) (uncredited)
Nikki Cox
as Girl
Sven-Ole Thorsen
as Mall Security Guard (uncredited)
Jenette Goldstein
as Janelle Voight
Earl Boen
as Dr. Silberman
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.
It's nothing personal.
Terminator 2: Judgment Day is a groundbreaking science fiction action film directed by James Cameron, released on July 3, 1991. This film is a sequel to the original Terminator (1984) and continues the story of a future dominated by a hostile artificial intelligence named Skynet. The film features notable performances by Arnold Schwarzenegger, Linda Hamilton, and Robert Patrick.
The plot centers around Skynet sending the advanced T-1000, a liquid metal assassin, back in time to kill John Connor, the future leader of the human resistance. In response, the resistance sends a reprogrammed T-800 Terminator to protect him. The film explores themes of identity, sacrifice, and the potential consequences of technology.
Produced on a budget estimated between $94 and $102 million, Terminator 2 set a record as one of the most expensive films made at the time. It was a box office sensation, grossing between $519 million and $520.9 million worldwide, making it the highest-grossing film of 1991 and the third-highest-grossing film ever at that time.
With impressive special effects, especially for the T-1000 character, the film was lauded for its innovative use of computer-generated imagery (CGI). It won four Academy Awards for categories including Best Visual Effects and Best Sound. The iconic line, "Hasta la vista, baby," delivered by Schwarzenegger, has since become widely recognized in popular culture.
Despite initial skepticism about a sequel after the first film's success, the collaboration between Schwarzenegger and Cameron helped revive interest. The movie's production faced challenges, including tight schedules and the need for extensive visual effects. The film's release was met with critical acclaim, with many considering it one of the best action and science fiction films ever made.
The film also has had a lasting impact on cinema, influencing visual effects and storytelling in action films. It is often cited as a benchmark for sequels and inspired a series of follow-up films and adaptations, including Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines (2003), Terminator Salvation (2009), Terminator Genisys (2015), and Terminator: Dark Fate (2019).
In addition to its critical successes, Terminator 2 has been preserved in the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress for its cultural significance. Over the years, it has left an indelible mark on popular culture, influencing countless films, video games, and other media.