Arnold Schwarzenegger, the star of the 1991 blockbuster "Terminator 2: Judgment Day", finds the film's once-imaginary storyline increasingly plausible in today's world.
"Back in those days, we merely touched upon the concept of AI, artificial intelligence. Just think about it," Schwarzenegger said to an enraptured audience at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles. The discussion took place on Wednesday evening prior to a screening of James Cameron's acclaimed film, which portrays a future where AI gains consciousness and plans to obliterate humanity.
"Currently, there's a widespread fear of the potential path of AI," Schwarzenegger added, noting the debates surrounding the utilization of AI in businesses.
During An Evening with Arnold Schwarzenegger, held at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures on June 28, 2023, Schwarzenegger took to the stage to share his thoughts.
"In 'Terminator,' we delve into the scenario where machines achieve self-awareness and seize control," Schwarzenegger explained, commending Cameron's prophetic vision and exceptional scriptwriting. "Decades later, it's not just an imagined, futuristic concept. It's a present reality. This showcases the remarkable writing skills of Jim Cameron," he stated.
When the special 3D screening of "Judgment Day" began later in the evening, and the phrase "Los Angeles 2029 A.D." flashed on screen, the audience in the David Geffen theater responded with uneasy laughter.
In the sequel to the 1984 original, Schwarzenegger's role transitions from a killer to a guardian for future resistance leader John Connor, played by Edward Furlong. A more advanced terminator, the T-1000, portrayed by Robert Patrick, travels back in time to assassinate John and secure victory for the machines.
Promoting his soon-to-be-released limited-edition photo book, "Arnold," Schwarzenegger admitted his initial doubts about the character's shift.
"I was initially skeptical," Schwarzenegger confessed about his transition to a protagonist. He humorously shared his friendly rivalry with Sylvester Stallone over who could claim the highest on-screen body count.
He further revealed his surprise when he discovered his character wouldn't take any lives in "Judgment Day," an idea he initially found absurd when Cameron proposed it. The director explained that the sequel needed a different approach, and Schwarzenegger's character is seen in the film deliberately avoiding killing innocents.
"Judgment Day" became Schwarzenegger's most commercially successful film, grossing $520 million globally.
"Jim Cameron is a genius," Schwarzenegger concluded. "He's an exceptional writer and a phenomenal director. I wish I could take credit for this movie. All I can claim is the character I portrayed and how I portrayed it."