Like Aliens did after Alien, the second Terminator film went bigger, faster, louder and (arguably) better.
The special effects were groundbreaking in their day. The atmospheric score accurately captures the feeling of menace and impending doom. Also, like Aliens, there is a vein of humour running through the movie - especially sending up certain aspects of the first film. And whatever you say about the acting talents of ‘Arnie’ he is perfectly suited to playing the Terminator.
The often under-rated Linda Hamilton returns to portrays just the right amount of strength and vulnerability as Sarah Connor: the woman who has the weight of the world’s future on her shoulders, and who must balance her love for her son with the need to prepare him for his destiny as a leader against the machines.
And this is what really makes this film so great - the fact that it is more than an effects laden excuse for CGI magic. It’s about the drama of being human: the struggle of providing a decent future for your children. It is also a coming of age drama; as the young John Connor grows up and faces his destiny as the saviour of the human race.
The film wouldn’t be nearly as interesting or loved if it wasn’t for these extra, human, dramatic features. Special effects and action set pieces just don’t work in isolation without a decent story behind them - as we have seen in far too many movies.
This modern classic is a must for any film watcher who likes a strong story as well as mind blowing action.
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