Terminator 2: Judgment Day

This second part of the saga inaugurated by “The Terminator” (1984) represents something of a remake of the original story. Although the plot is practically identical (with a few new twists leading to novel temporal paradoxes), this time Cameron forgoes the earlier film’s gloomy, frightening atmosphere, betting big on the action component while further beefing up the pure entertainment factor.

What we get is a thrilling, high-octane chase rich with breathtaking scenes masterfully enhanced by revolutionary special effects from the Dennis Muren/Stan Winston team. Particularly well done are the lighter interludes, mostly devoted to amusing verbal exchanges between John Connor and the T-800 (lines like ‘You were gonna kill that guy!’ ‘Of course. I’m a Terminator’ or, “You gotta promise me you’re not gonna kill anyone, right?“). It can’t be overemphasized that despite its purely “commercial” approach, “Terminator 2” certainly doesn’t abandon themes near and dear to hard-core sci-fi fans, and manages to stimulate some serious soul-searching regarding human nature and conduct through the ongoing man/machine conflict.

The cast is in fine fettle. The iconic Arnold Schwarzenegger benefits from the switch to the good guys’ team. Linda Hamilton’s arduous performance as a ferocious warrior is excellent (her character has much in common with the Ripley seen in 1986’s “Aliens”). Young Edward Furlong and the legendary Robert Patrick both turn in impeccable performances as well. Among numerous memorable scenes, it would be impossible to overlook the liquid nitrogen bath sequence.

Adrenaline-charged, explosive, even touching – an absolute must-see for fans of extraordinary cinema. Four very well-deserved Oscars (Makeup, Sound, Sound Editing, Visual Effects).