Yes, it’s been over two decades since the release of Terminator 2: Judgement Day! Although most of the things have literally transformed since then, it’s the shape-shifting villain T-1000 that still exudes the same icy, shark-like demeanor.
During a 2017 visit to London to promote the 3-D release of T2, Robert Patrick opened up about the role that catapulted him to fame. While discussing peculiar anecdotes and the audition process for the role, Patrick revealed the details of his collaboration with the famous Hollywood filmmaker James Cameron.
Robert Patrick owes his career to Terminator 2
It’s understood that playing a relentless future assassin against Arnold Schwarzenegger is no joke. But Robert Patrick took up the challenge and aced the role of T-1000 – a role that changed the trajectory of his career. Revealing how the role changed his life. Patrick said,
“I owe my entire life as an actor to this film. It’s an unbelievable thing and I’m incredibly grateful that it happened to me. I can’t think of a cooler way to be introduced to the world than as the nemesis in Terminator 2. It’s such a great role. I’m very gratified with all the work I did, and the acknowledgement it’s getting – and to be a small part of such a big event movie.”
Furthermore, the actor discussed his initial encounter with James Cameron. Revealing how his background in Roger Corman’s world served as a significant advantage, Patrick shared how Cameron recognized his ability to perform stunts, command a character’s presence, and deliver a compelling performance.
When Robert Patrick was insecure that James Cameron would fire him
While recounting his production experience of Terminator 2, Patrick admitted to facing some insecurities. Revealing how his role demanded commitment, especially with respect to character and physicality, Patrick said that he had dedicated four months to rigorous training collaborating with Uzi Gal to develop the character’s nuances.
“It was high stakes. It was a daunting thing. I had to battle my own insecurities. I had to stay committed to what I was going to do – the performance, the physicality.”
In fact, the actor vividly recalled the intense scrutiny he faced while working on the film. Every movement and action had to align with the character of the T-1000.
“Every time I got in there, stepped up and got on the mark, I had to make sure I knew how the T-1000 would react in all these situations: all the movements. It was like acting under a microscope. There were a lot of frustrating things: marks I had to hit. I had to keep my eyes here [points straight ahead]. I can’t find the f*ckin’ mark because I can’t look at the f*ckin’ mark!”
Moreover, he also emphasized the pressure of working with James Cameron, highly appreciating the director’s exacting and specific approach. Calling Cameron “commander in chief” during the film’s production, Patrick said that he doubted his own abilities.
“I was scared at a certain point. In my head I was saying, “God, am I doing enough? Is this working?” There was also a part of me that was worried I was gonna get fired! You know, I revealed that recently. That was something I didn’t really share with a lot of people, but I just thought, any day now, this is all gonna go away, and I’m gonna get fired. Why I had that feeling, I’ve no idea.”
In conclusion, Robert Patrick’s journey in Terminator 2: Judgment Day left an indelible mark on his career and established him as an iconic figure in the world of cinema. His reflections on working with James Cameron and the challenges he faced provide a unique insight into the making of this enduring classic.
Source: Den of Geek
