Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that this film is extremely violent and features multiple scenes of post-apocalyptic imagery and strong language. However, the film does a surprisingly good job of addressing the issue of collateral damage, which is often glazed over in similar big action films. The point is made by multiple characters, most importantly the child protagonist John Connor, that the killing of bystanders must be avoided at all costs, even though the fate of the world may hang in the balance. In this way, while a definitive big science fiction action film, this movie has more of a conscience than many other films in its genre.
Familis can talk about the development of such amoral killing machines as The Terminators? What would the ramifications of the existence of such machines be?
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: David Gurney
Continuing the story of the first film, TERMINATOR 2: JUDGMENT DAY finds The Terminator, played by Arnold Schwarzenegger, sent back in time from the future again, but this time switching sides to become the protector of the human race's future hope, John Connor. While playing the character with the same steely stoicism as in the original, Arnold obviously relishes the chance to be the "good guy" in this one, and the script provides him with plenty of silly one-liners to provide the otherwise dark film some levity. The action is almost nonstop with shopping mall shootouts, truck/motorcycle chases, and various other action set pieces saturating the film. This is the film that made CGI effects seem palatable and as such, can be considered a promulgator of all subsequent big budget action effects movies.
The film's greatest technical achievement is the shape-shifting T1000 character who pursues John Connor and makes it necessary for The Terminator to act as protector. Linda Hamilton turns in a frantic performance as Connor's mother Sarah, who, in trying to spread the knowledge of an apocalyptic future that she acquires in the first film, has been deemed insane and confined to an institution. The film continually ratchets up the tension as the T1000 comes closer and closer to destroying young John, making TERMINATOR 2 a thoroughly exciting thrill ride.
For families who like this, the other films of The Terminator series, The Terminator (1984) and Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines (2003) are recommended.
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Sexual ContentBrief scene depicting a guard licking the face of a restrained mental patient. |
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ViolenceFetishized slow-motion shootings and car chases. |
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LanguageVery strong language. |
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