Key Takeaways:
– James Cameron initially planned to make Arnold Schwarzenegger play a dual role in Terminator 2: Judgment Day.
– The original idea could have led to Schwarzenegger's character turning into a ‘dark hero'.
– Rejected concept hinted at a chaotic ending where the protagonists realize they haven't won the battle yet.
– The ‘liquid metal robot' concept was part of both initial and final plot.
– Co-writer William Wisher believed a Schwarzenegger vs Schwarzenegger scenario would be ‘boring'.
– The film grossed over $205 million worldwide, received high ratings from critics and audiences, and is available for streaming on Netflix.
The Great Twist That Saved Terminator 2: Judgment Day
Thirty-three years after its release, Terminator 2: Judgment Day still holds the charm that enthralled audiences and earned it enormous commercial success. Featuring the charismatic Arnold Schwarzenegger, the film is indeed a gem from the Terminator series. But the original plan for the film wasn't as impressive as what eventually hit the screens.
Splitting Ideas for the Sequel's Plot
Director James Cameron initially had two distinct but somewhat controversial ideas for this movie. The first of these concepts was split into two parts. It involved the concept of having two versions of Schwarzenegger's Terminator character – one being the protector of Sarah and John Connor and another sent by Skynet as an enemy.
As the story would unfold, this narrative would have gradually turned Schwarzenegger into a ‘dark hero'. Following the defeat of the opponent, the troupe would realize that the battle is far from won. This was a slightly bleak approach that didn't make much headway.
Rejecting the Twin-Terminator Idea
In the second part of Cameron's initial plan, the protector Terminator was to wipe out the enemy, either by squashing him under a vehicle or hurling him into a machine. Interestingly, some remnants of this concept were incorporated into the eventual plot.
However, co-writer William Wisher was far from impressed with the aspect of ‘Schwarzenegger fighting Schwarzenegger'. He argued it would've been ‘boring' to have the same face on both sides of the battle—a sentiment that reflected the potential reception of the audience as well.
Innovation Ensures Success
Switching gears from the initial concept that could've led to ‘Razzie King' nominations, Cameron decided to meld his competing ideas into a blended narrative that churned out the global hit we now know as Terminator 2: Judgment Day.
Instead of having two Schwarzenegger's on opposite sides, Cameron introduced the concept of a menacing ‘liquid metal robot'. This innovation led to an intriguing setting, with Schwarzenegger as the stalwart protector, and a scary super weapon heightening the threat factor. The resulting product offered an engaging viewing experience, alleviating fears of audience confusion.
The Aftermath: A Cinematic Gem is Born
This master-stroke of combining ideas paid off handsomely. Terminator 2: Judgment Day raked in over $205 million globally according to Box Office Mojo and earned soaring ratings on Rotten Tomatoes. Its impressive 91% critical score and 95% audience score exemplify the film's overwhelming success.
You can relive or experience for the first time the suspense and thrill of this iconic sequel on Netflix. Whether you're a fan of Schwarzenegger's movie journey or a lover of AI-driven action flicks, Terminator 2: Judgment Day offers an unforgettable cinematic experience. But remember, this masterpiece could've been a very different story had the initial ideas seen the light of the day!
