Terminator 2: Judgement Day
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Terminator 2: Judgement Day (1991)
Review by Glenn Burgess
It's a forgone conclusion that any sequel to The Terminator couldn't match up to it's predecessor, and this film is no exception. Not that it's bad, by any means. This is an absolutely fantastic film. The one problem I had with this film was that John Conner was meant to be eight years old. Hmm, 12 more like. Arnie excels in his role as the 'good' Terminator, but that's not saying much considoring the role consists of about three words.
The 'bad' Terminator, played by Robert Patrick, is a well-cast role. The not-overmuscular Patrick gives the role a sinister quality through playing it as a mix of emotionless kiling machine and friendly normal human for when he's around other people. It makes you want to shout at the screen "hey, he' not that nice really you know". The special effects associated with this T-1000 Terminator are quite extraordinary, with director James Cameron pushing the envelope as he has done more recently and more spectacuarly with the multi-oscar-winning Titanic.
Although the film is essentially a repeat of the first one, there is a minor spot of storyline surgery when we learn of Skynet, and it's role in the destruction of mankind. This adds a fresh spin, and adds in the interesting sub-plot of Dyson, a man inadvertantly responsible for the destruction of the future. On the whole, though, the film doesn't feel like a re-hash, but it does go about addressing the theme of 'machines are bad' in a slightly hamfisted way. But who cares? It's an excellent film nonetheless.

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