Common Sense Media Review
Thrilling sci-fi action sequel has violence, language.
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Terminator 2: Judgment Day
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 43 parent reviews
Parents say that this film serves as an enduring classic suitable for older children and teens, often being described as a must-see for its engaging blend of action, humor, and compelling character development. While there are concerns regarding its violence and strong language, many parents feel this movie is manageable and even appropriate for mature 10 to 12-year-olds, provided they understand the differences between fiction and reality.
- suitable for teens
- engaging action
- strong language
- violence present
- classic status
- parent discretion
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 188 kid reviews
Kids say this is an incredible sequel that elevates the original with its sophisticated action, emotional depth, and iconic special effects, making it a must-watch for both fans of the genre and newcomers. While the film contains significant violence and strong language, it is generally regarded as manageable for mature younger viewers, provided they are accompanied by an adult.
- masterpiece
- intense violence
- strong language
- emotional depth
- family-friendly
- action-packed
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
In TERMINATOR 2: JUDGMENT DAY, the Terminator (Arnold Schwarzenegger) is sent back in time from the future again. But this time he switches sides to become the protector of the human race's future hope, John Connor (Edward Furlong). Meanwhile, Connor's mother, Sarah (Linda Hamilton), who tries to spread the word about an upcoming apocalypse, is deemed insane and confined to an institution. Can the three work together to save John from his latest foe, the T-1000 (Robert Patrick), and find a way to stop Skynet's futuristic technology before it gets out of hand?
Is It Any Good?
This is the film that really showed what CGI effects could add to a movie, and, as such, can be considered a huge influence on subsequent big-budget action effects movies. Terminator 2: Judgment Day's greatest technical achievement is the shape-shifting T-1000 character, who pursues John Connor and makes it necessary for the original Terminator to act as John's protector. The film continually ratchets up the tension as the T-1000 comes closer and closer to destroying young John, making this film a thoroughly exciting thrill ride.
Though he plays the character with the same steely stoicism as in the original, Schwarzenegger obviously relishes the chance to be the "good guy" in this one, and the script offers him plenty of silly one-liners to provide the otherwise dark film with some levity. And Hamilton turns in a powerful performance as a desperate mother locked away because everyone thinks she's insane.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the development of potential killing machines like the ones shown in Terminator 2: Judgment Day. What do you think would happen in real life if machines like Terminators existed? Where do you think the responsibility lies? Is there a way to balance this kind of technological advancement with ethics?
What does this movie say about fate, destiny, and the future? Do you agree or disagree? What do you think stops the characters from giving up hope? Why is hope important to hold on to?
Why do you think violence is such a prominent feature in blockbuster action movies? Would anything have been lost from the story with half as much violence? Why, or why not?
The movie features a strong female lead. Why is it important to show women as lead characters, particularly in action films, which have traditionally been male-led? How does Sarah compare to female characters in other action movies you've seen? Why is it important to challenge on-screen stereotypes?
Movie Details
- In theaters : July 3, 1991
- On DVD or streaming : October 22, 1997
- Cast : Arnold Schwarzenegger , Edward Furlong , Linda Hamilton , Robert Patrick
- Director : James Cameron
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Columbia Tristar
- Genre : Action/Adventure
- Topics : Adventures , Robots
- Run time : 147 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : strong sci-fi action and violence, and for language
- Last updated : November 6, 2025
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