Terminator 2: Judgment Day - Characters & Cast

Initially, its motivation is purely programmatic: to ensure the survival of John Connor. As the film progresses, a deeper, more nuanced motivation emerges – a genuine desire to protect John and, by extension, humanity, born from the bond they form.

The T-800's arc is one of the most significant in the film. It begins as a cold, emotionless killing machine programmed to protect John Connor. Through its interactions with John, it starts to learn about human behavior, emotions, and the value of life. This learning process transforms it from a mere machine into a protector and a surrogate father figure. Its journey culminates in a selfless act of sacrifice, where it willingly destroys itself to protect humanity's future, demonstrating that it has truly understood the meaning of being human.

Her primary motivation is to protect her son, John, at all costs, as she knows he is the key to humanity's survival. This is coupled with a desperate and all-consuming drive to prevent Judgment Day and the creation of Skynet.

Sarah Connor's character undergoes a dramatic transformation between the first and second films. She evolves from a frightened waitress into a hardened, fiercely protective warrior. Her knowledge of the future has left her traumatized and obsessed, making her almost as single-minded and emotionally detached as a Terminator. Throughout the film, she struggles to reconnect with her son and her own humanity, which she has suppressed in the name of survival. Her arc is about finding a balance between her warrior instincts and her maternal compassion, ultimately rediscovering hope for the future.

At first, John's motivation is simply survival. As the film progresses, he becomes motivated by a desire to protect his mother and prevent the apocalyptic future he learns about. He also develops a strong bond with the T-800 and is motivated to keep his protector safe.

John begins the film as a cynical and rebellious ten-year-old, acting out due to his unstable upbringing. When confronted with the reality of his future destiny, he is initially disbelieving but quickly adapts to the extraordinary circumstances. His arc involves coming to terms with the immense responsibility placed upon him and beginning to exhibit the leadership qualities that will one day make him the savior of humanity. He also plays a crucial role in humanizing the T-800, teaching it compassion and empathy.

The T-1000 has one singular, unwavering motivation: to terminate John Connor. It is driven by its programming and will stop at nothing to achieve its objective.

The T-1000 is a largely static character, serving as the film's relentless and seemingly invincible antagonist. It does not undergo any significant character development. Its arc is more of a physical and tactical one, as it continuously adapts its methods to hunt down John Connor. Its lack of emotional depth and singular focus on its mission make it a terrifying and formidable foe.