Terminator 2: Judgment Day (UK - BD RA/B)
Chris takes a look at the new Optimum Blu-ray release of the 90s sci-fi sequel
Feature
Set roughly ten years after the events of the original The Terminator, T2 jumps forward to a time when Sarah Connor has given birth to her son, John. Skynet, the supercomputer that controls the machine armies of the future, has sent another Terminator back through time in an attempt to kill John. However, this is no ordinary machine, but an advanced prototype: the T1000. Composed of a mimetic-poly-alloy, or liquid metal, the T1000 can imitate anything it samples by physical contact, making it an ideal assassin. The future resistance learns of the plan to assassinate John, and manages to capture and reprogram an old T800 series Terminator, assigning it one mission: to protect the life of John Connor at all costs. The race is on to see which machine will find the adolescent Connor first, with the fate of the human race hanging in the balance.

Of course the main reason for the film's blockbuster status is the (for the time) ground breaking special effects, be they digital or practical. Who can forget the incredible sight of the T-1000 morphing into various shapes as it stalked the Connors, or Arnie's battered T-800 with exposed endoskeleton? It reminded me what a great loss Stan Winston was to the effects community, but I took comfort in the fact that we have this and other examples of his work to remind us of his genius. Of course the technology is old hat by today's standards, but the effects hold up fairly well when you consider that they're over fifteen years old. The T-1000 looks a little odd whenever he's walking in liquid metal form, but animating humanoid forms in a convincing manner is very difficult, even to this day (although things have improved dramatically in recent years, as evidenced by the CGI Silver Surfer). Unfortunately the effects served to remind me of why everyone raved about the film in 1991. Seventeen years later we're all used to flashy effects, and the chinks in Terminator 2's armour are starting to show.

Having said that, the years have been relatively kind to T2, as has an extended period of absence from my DVD player. When I last reviewed the film I was suffering from T2 overload, which undoubtedly influenced my opinion. This Blu-ray release marks the first time I've watched the film in years, and the experience was more gratifying for it. It's not quite as 'edge of your seat' as I remember, possibly because this is the extended cut with added exposition, but it is an incredibly ambitious project that deserves its place in history. Me, I still prefer the low-budget grittiness of the original, but I can understand why many people gravitate towards this glitzy sequel. I just feel that it lacks the drive and relentless pace of The Terminator, which runs almost forty minutes shorter than this version of the sequel. I found myself losing interest during the long periods of time when neither Terminator was on screen, and the action wasn't as exciting as I remember. I also have issues with some of the choices made by the characters, not to mention the performances of certain members of the cast. Don't get me wrong, T2 is still a good film, but I preferred Arnie before his conscious shift to good guy roles in which he doesn't intentionally harm people.

Video
Terminator 2 is another port of the a Studio Canal HD DVD release, which means a 1080p VC-1 encoded transfer at the film's original theatrical ratio of 2.35:1. The image is generally very pleasing, with solid contrast, decent black levels and natural colour rendition. The image is quite a lot softer than the Blu-ray transfers of most modern features, but detail is still far more impressive than the previous DVD releases. However, this proves to be a bit of a mixed blessing as it draws attention to some of the less impressive effects work, such as the slightly suspect model cars and buildings destroyed during Sarah's 'nuclear nightmare'. I also noticed some of the digitally erased wires that were used to support the Terminator's motorcycle as it jumped into the storm drain. On the plus side, this was the first time I ever noticed that the T-1000 grew an extra hand to pilot the helicopter as it reloaded!

There's quite a lot of grain in the image, but this is fairly typical of films shot in Super 35 (as opposed to anamorphic), and it's rarely distracting. There was one scene where the image appeared far grainier than any at other point in the feature, but this was not repeated. I also noticed a reasonable amount of film artefacts throughout the duration of the film, but these were mostly limited to small black or white flecks and only one of them was large enough to draw undue attention to itself. There are some very light edge halos in a number of scenes, but they only showed up under close examination of still frames and I didn't notice them during normal playback on a 42" set. All things considered this is an excellent presentation that does justice to the source material.

Audio
As with most of Optimum's recent Blu-ray releases, we get another DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 soundtrack. Again, this is ported over from the HD DVD release, but thankfully this time there is no controversy about whether the track's pitch has been altered (see my Total Recall review). The music and dialogue sound as expected. As with all DTS-HD Master Audio tracks, current hardware limitations restrict me to sampling the DTS Core element.
As to the quality, well it's easily the most impressive aspect of the disc. It's an incredibly active track right from the get-go, with almost constant use of all five channels to create a fully immersive world. There's plenty of directionality, be it panning across the front of the sound stage, or cleverly placed discreet effects in the rears. The opening scenes of battle in Los Angeles circa 2029 are incredibly atmospheric, filled with the sounds of Hunker Killers whooshing overhead and plasma rifles blasting away. Bass is extremely ferocious, with each gunshot packing a satisfying punch and some of the larger explosions resulting in ornament displacement. Brad Feidel's score sits nicely alongside the rest of the mix, never overwhelming the effects. If I had to nitpick I would say that the dialogue is a little indistinct on a couple of occasions and fidelity isn't quite up there with modern soundtracks. However, these are are very minor criticisms of what is otherwise a fine mix.

Extras
Once again I find myself in possession of an Optimum Blu-ray Disc with zero bonus features. It's very disappointing given the wealth of bonus material available for the film. At the very least it would have been nice to have a choice between the theatrical and special editions of the film, like the French Studio Canal HD DVD, especially since Studio Canal own Optimum (and Kinowelt for that matter, and their HD DVD version of T2 had bags of extras).
As with the |Total Recall disc, Optimum has included video and audio calibration tools, but they don't really qualify as bonus material in my book. They're functional at best, without any of the advanced calibration settings found in the THX Optimizer or Digital Video Essentials tools. In fact, the reference levels suggested for the video are some way off the optimum setting for this film.

Overall
Terminator 2 is a landmark film that deserves its place in the sci-fi pantheon. However, I stand by my assertion that it's not quite as rewarding as its done-on-a-shoestring predecessor. For me, the moral elements don't quite work as well as the action scenes, and I preferred Schwarzenegger's turn as an implacable killing machine than the more humanised role of protector. Hey, different strokes and all that.
This Blu-ray release is a mixed affair, with the solid audio-visual elements somewhat let down by the complete lack of extras. However, if you're unconcerned with bonus material and just want a great looking and sounding version of the film you could do a lot worse than checking this release out. It can be picked up for a little under thirteen pounds if you shop around, which is pretty good value for a Blu-ray Disc.
Review by Chris Gould
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Existing Posts
Of course a movie that was made 16 or so years ago will have flaws compared to movies made now in terms of special effects. You have higher definition then you will see more flaws....
Maybe one case on why not to upgrade...
Maybe one case on why not to upgrade...
jantheman wrote: The extended version is 100% ruined just by the scene of "Terminator learning how to smile".
Of course, once T3 came out, I just threw T2 in the garbage....
Forum comedians are a dime a dozen, you will not prosper...
Of course, once T3 came out, I just threw T2 in the garbage....
Forum comedians are a dime a dozen, you will not prosper...
i never got a chance to watch this... i won the third movie, and i think it was really cool, so i guess im gonna have to add this to my wish list...
The extended version is 100% ruined just by the scene of "Terminator learning how to smile".
Of course, once T3 came out, I just threw T2 in the garbage....
Of course, once T3 came out, I just threw T2 in the garbage....
Anyone see the Direct TV commercial with the T-1000? I thought it was very amusing.

HagenDarth wrote: Have to disagree on several counts:
1) the film stands up well today, especially against mediocre CGI-filled blockbuster wannabees
2) I enjoyed the extended cut more than the theatrical one, though I understand why those scenes were cut
3) T1 was a landmark, but T2 was better on all levels - technical, visual, story-wise, even acting.
Could not agree more.
1) the film stands up well today, especially against mediocre CGI-filled blockbuster wannabees
2) I enjoyed the extended cut more than the theatrical one, though I understand why those scenes were cut
3) T1 was a landmark, but T2 was better on all levels - technical, visual, story-wise, even acting.
Could not agree more.
Yep, I still prefer the T1000 to the Silver Surfer.
Especially, as the T1000 was a "robot" so I still believe in the performance. I found the Silver Surfer to be too "cartoony" and Lawerence Fishburne's voice seemed forced. The CGI Hulk in "the Incredible Hulk" was ten times more cartoony/fake than Ang Lee's version (which is bizarre as CGI effects should be getting better NOT worse!).
Especially, as the T1000 was a "robot" so I still believe in the performance. I found the Silver Surfer to be too "cartoony" and Lawerence Fishburne's voice seemed forced. The CGI Hulk in "the Incredible Hulk" was ten times more cartoony/fake than Ang Lee's version (which is bizarre as CGI effects should be getting better NOT worse!).
Th CGI of the T-1000 stand ups really well in some places and not in others. When he smashes through the helicopter windscreen and pours in is a good example of it working really well.
When he's on the floor just before the tunnel chase and the shotgun wounds repair is poor compared to recent effects.
When he's on the floor just before the tunnel chase and the shotgun wounds repair is poor compared to recent effects.
I prefer the extended version of T2 just for the return of Kyle Reese alone.
Evidently not.
What ghekkomanic said.
Bradavon wrote: Maybe in definition but I'm not really taking about that. The T1000 a lot more effective than the Silver Surfer.
Are you familiar with the phrase 'we'll agree to disagree'?
Are you familiar with the phrase 'we'll agree to disagree'?

Bradavon wrote: Maybe in definition but I'm not really taking about that. The T1000 a lot more effective than the Silver Surfer.
I think the CGI in T2 although arguably less accomplished than recent films is used more innovatively and I think that's why it's more effective. And because the effects were integral to the story, not some lazy add-on or effects for the sake of spectacle. It's a testament to the quality of the film that (most) viewers don't notice how the effects have aged or how newer CGI is more slick because you're more engrossed in the story.
I think the CGI in T2 although arguably less accomplished than recent films is used more innovatively and I think that's why it's more effective. And because the effects were integral to the story, not some lazy add-on or effects for the sake of spectacle. It's a testament to the quality of the film that (most) viewers don't notice how the effects have aged or how newer CGI is more slick because you're more engrossed in the story.
i loved all three Terminator films as well as the Sarah Connor TV Show. I am really looking forward to the new movie.
Have to disagree on several counts:
1) the film stands up well today, especially against mediocre CGI-filled blockbuster wannabees
2) I enjoyed the extended cut more than the theatrical one, though I understand why those scenes were cut
3) T1 was a landmark, but T2 was better on all levels - technical, visual, story-wise, even acting.
1) the film stands up well today, especially against mediocre CGI-filled blockbuster wannabees
2) I enjoyed the extended cut more than the theatrical one, though I understand why those scenes were cut
3) T1 was a landmark, but T2 was better on all levels - technical, visual, story-wise, even acting.
Chris Gould wrote: Bradavon wrote: Maybe but that doesn't stop the T1000 from being more impressive.
I'd say that it does by definition. The Silver Surfer was a lot more 'realistic' than the T-1000, as was the TX in Terminator 3. We'll agree to disagree.
I agree in some respects. Silver Surfer is more impressive technically, but personally I prefer the T1000, and I think it's because even though I know it's CGI, I always lump the FX and Robert Patrick into a whole. Although the CGI 'liquid' effect is fairly weak nowadays, Patrick sells the prosthetic side of T1000 so well, the effect is seamless.
I'd say that it does by definition. The Silver Surfer was a lot more 'realistic' than the T-1000, as was the TX in Terminator 3. We'll agree to disagree.
I agree in some respects. Silver Surfer is more impressive technically, but personally I prefer the T1000, and I think it's because even though I know it's CGI, I always lump the FX and Robert Patrick into a whole. Although the CGI 'liquid' effect is fairly weak nowadays, Patrick sells the prosthetic side of T1000 so well, the effect is seamless.
Eva Unit02 wrote:
Also the Theatrical Cut is far better, the pacing of the Extended Cut is utterly dreadful. Plus you've got c**p/redundant scenes like "Terminator learns to smile" and Dyson working on the Skynet processor design at home...
Talk to the hand!!
Also the Theatrical Cut is far better, the pacing of the Extended Cut is utterly dreadful. Plus you've got c**p/redundant scenes like "Terminator learns to smile" and Dyson working on the Skynet processor design at home...
Talk to the hand!!
Maybe in definition but I'm not really taking about that. The T1000 a lot more effective than the Silver Surfer.
Bradavon wrote: Maybe but that doesn't stop the T1000 from being more impressive.
I'd say that it does by definition. The Silver Surfer was a lot more 'realistic' than the T-1000, as was the TX in Terminator 3. We'll agree to disagree.
I'd say that it does by definition. The Silver Surfer was a lot more 'realistic' than the T-1000, as was the TX in Terminator 3. We'll agree to disagree.
Chris Gould wrote: Not trying to start an argument, but technically the CGI Hulk and Silver Surfer are leaps and bounds ahead of the T-1000. The fluidity of the animation, the texturing, everything. The T-1000 effect was impressive in its day, but it wouldn't cut it in a modern feature.
Maybe but that doesn't stop the T1000 from being more impressive.
Eva Unit02 wrote: Have you never seen T2?
No. I've never seen The Orphanage either, apparently.
Thanks though.
Eva Unit02 wrote: Plus you've got c**p/redundant scenes like "Terminator learns to smile" and Dyson working on the Skynet processor design at home.
The best additions of the extended cut is Sarah's Reese dream/vision and the T-1000 glitching at the refinery.
All that makes it better IMO.
Maybe but that doesn't stop the T1000 from being more impressive.
Eva Unit02 wrote: Have you never seen T2?
No. I've never seen The Orphanage either, apparently.
Thanks though.
Eva Unit02 wrote: Plus you've got c**p/redundant scenes like "Terminator learns to smile" and Dyson working on the Skynet processor design at home.
The best additions of the extended cut is Sarah's Reese dream/vision and the T-1000 glitching at the refinery.
All that makes it better IMO.
Not trying to start an argument, but technically the CGI Hulk and Silver Surfer are leaps and bounds ahead of the T-1000. The fluidity of the animation, the texturing, everything. The T-1000 effect was impressive in its day, but it wouldn't cut it in a modern feature.
Bradavon wrote: What's this 3/4 arms we're discussing
Have you never seen T2?
When the T-1000 is flying the helicopter (during the highway chase, IIRC) he sprouts a 3rd arm. One set piloting the heli and the extra firing a gun.
On the other point, I agree, the T-1000 special effects hold up really well today.
Also the Theatrical Cut is far better, the pacing of the Extended Cut is utterly dreadful. Plus you've got c**p/redundant scenes like "Terminator learns to smile" and Dyson working on the Skynet processor design at home.
The best additions of the extended cut is Sarah's Reese dream/vision and the T-1000 glitching at the refinery.
Have you never seen T2?
When the T-1000 is flying the helicopter (during the highway chase, IIRC) he sprouts a 3rd arm. One set piloting the heli and the extra firing a gun.
On the other point, I agree, the T-1000 special effects hold up really well today.
Also the Theatrical Cut is far better, the pacing of the Extended Cut is utterly dreadful. Plus you've got c**p/redundant scenes like "Terminator learns to smile" and Dyson working on the Skynet processor design at home.
The best additions of the extended cut is Sarah's Reese dream/vision and the T-1000 glitching at the refinery.
I agree with Bradavon and think the CGI effects of the T1000 hold up very well (better than the Silver Surfer and the piss poor CGI Hulk in the "Incredible Hulk" film).
I also prefer the extended cut and it is about time studios release Blu Rays with the extended/director's cut versions.
I also prefer the extended cut and it is about time studios release Blu Rays with the extended/director's cut versions.
What's this 3/4 arms we're discussing?
Personally I prefer this Extended Cut. I also like the T1000 scene in John's bedroom, featured in the alternate Extended Cut but of course the extended ending is awful.
I also prefer T2 to Terminator, although that's still very good too.
It's a shame to hear this is another HD-DVD port
. I've gone for the German HD-DVD UE but hopefully a full SE (with all cuts) will get released when Terminator: Salvation comes around.
Quote: Seventeen years later we're all used to flashy effects, and the c***ks in Terminator 2's armour are starting to show.
I disagree. I still find they hold up very well, more so than in T3 in fact.
Personally I prefer this Extended Cut. I also like the T1000 scene in John's bedroom, featured in the alternate Extended Cut but of course the extended ending is awful.
I also prefer T2 to Terminator, although that's still very good too.
It's a shame to hear this is another HD-DVD port

Quote: Seventeen years later we're all used to flashy effects, and the c***ks in Terminator 2's armour are starting to show.
I disagree. I still find they hold up very well, more so than in T3 in fact.
Chris Gould wrote: Odd really, cause I always noticed the T-1000's pre-exploded head in front of the lift.
well there's something i never noticed, but will look out for next time i watch, so we're even now
well there's something i never noticed, but will look out for next time i watch, so we're even now

Love the opening scenes!! An Instant classic.
I don't know actually. Now I come to think of it I reckon I might have noticed it before, but my mind could be playing tricks on me. I think the quality of the transfer coupled with the size of my new screen made it a lot more obvious this time around. Anyway, yeah, for all intents and purposes I only just noticed it (actually I think he has four arms). Odd really, cause I always noticed the T-1000's pre-exploded head in front of the lift.
you just noticed the 3rd arm? oh my...i think to this day that's still a debate on some forums and sites. some people think its a mistake and thats just the arm of someone from behind the scenes despite how they make it their business to focus on it so the audience notices it but anyway yeah...funny. lol


Suitable only for persons of 15 years and over
Disc Details
Release Date:
4th August 2008
Discs:
1
Disc Type:
Blu-ray Disc
RCE:
No
Video:
1080p
Aspect:
2.35:1
Anamorphic:
No
Colour:
Yes
Audio:
DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 English, DTS-HD High Resolution 5.1 Spanish
Subtitles:
French, Dutch
Extras:
N/A
Easter Egg:
No
Feature Details
Director:
James Cameron
Cast:
Arnold Schwarzenegger, Linda Hamilton, Edward Furlong, Robert Patrick, Earl Boen, Joe Morton, Castulo Guerra, Jenette Goldstein, Xander Berkeley
Genre:
Action and Sci-Fi
Length:
153 minutes
Ratings
Amazon.com
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