The Premise

Cyberdyne Systems, a multinational conglomerate focused on providing defense equipment for various governments around the world, has recently coined up a new line of defense robots, otherwise known as the Terminators, within a subsidiary known as Skynet. Unfortunately for us, only moments after its inception, the Skynet system manages to develop at deafening pace becoming fully self aware only moments after its inception. At this point, Skynet’s only purpose is to completely obliterate the human race from existence, targeting us as its prime enemy from then on. It’s up to a small group of resistance fighters to protect race from total annihilation, and to prevent initiation of Skynet – which would otherwise mark Judgment Day.

As luck would have it, Cyberdyne Systems has recently welcomed a few guests into its corporate headquarters to help witness the launch of Skynet, along with a few early prototypes of the Terminator defense system. Fortunately for you, resistance fighters have broken through in an attempt to stop the presser which would inevitably mark the early beginnings of Judgment Day.

So how is it?

I will flat out admit I’m not fan of 3D. Not only do I find it tacky, I also find it obstructive to the story line. I just find it a huge gimmick that doesn’t need to be done.

So you’re probably wondering where I stand on Terminator 2:3D. Well, this might come as a surprise, but I personally find it the best implementation of 3D I’ve ever seen in a theme park attraction. For starters, I’ll start this review off by blowing some praise towards James Cameron. This man knows how to direct – there’s no doubt about it. And with Terminator 2:3D, he definitely doesn’t disappoint. The whole thing is just tastefully done.

Sure, this attraction isn’t immune to the fact that there still are gimmicky 3D effects for the sake of showing said feature off, but this show also manages to do something unique – live action. Unlike most other 3D attractions out there, Terminator manages to stick both live action and film – integrating both mediums into a seamless presentation. You and the actors are literally sucked into the screen as you journey into this post-apocalyptic world.

So do I recommend it? Absolutely – on a few conditions. If you’ve never seen the attraction before and this is your first time visiting, it’s definitely something I would plan ahead for. On the other hand, if you’ve already seen it once or twice, there’s really no need to revisit it again. Despite having live action, it’s still very much scripted and the whole thing rarely goes off course, so you’ll be simply viewing the same thing with very little, if any, modifications. The Terminator from two years ago is still the same Terminator today.

Tips and Tricks

Before the show

Don’t revolve your entire day based off Terminator 2:3D. It’s not worth it – not because of the show itself, but because it’s on a daily rotation throughout the day, every 30 minutes like clockwork. Because of this, it’s something you could let slide until the very last few performances. For whatever show session you do plan to attend, arrive at least 10 to 15 minutes in advance to start lining up in the queue.

Also, if you need to use the restroom, do so before the show. Though it’s not as long as the Studio Tour, it’s extremely difficult to get out once you get in. Unless you want to frustrate some employees, go ahead and use the restroom near WaterWorld or Universal’s Animal Actors.

If you’re coming from the Curious George playground or WaterWorld, be aware that they don’t allow those who have overly wet clothes into the theater. Floors can be slippery and they don’t want you tripping inside.

Seating

Seating is pretty straightforward and get's narrower as you move down the asile. When you do pick a section, be sure to move all the way down to make room for others. Every seat has a perfect view of the show, so don’t worry about your location too much. In terms of suggestions, our forum recommends the back for the quickest seating, since the majority of guests rush towards the front. Another important note – once you’ve picked a seat, stay there. Don’t get up unless it’s an extreme emergency. This is for your own safety and the safety of the performers.

If you would prefer to have a stationary seat (there isn’t much movement, but there are a few jolts), simply go to the center of the theater marked in red as illustrated in the graphic below.

During the show

No flash photography or video taping. No cellphones either. If an employee sees something glowing in your hand, they’ll ask you to put it away.

Parents

Not an attraction I recommend for young ones at all. The show is just extremely loud and some of the effects might be too intense.

Photographs & Discussions

You can view photos of Terminator 2:3D over at our Photo Album. We also have a discussion forum dedicated to Terminator 2:3D for any questions or comments you may have.