Filming the Scene with the Truck Falling in Terminator 2: Judgment Day

The truck crash scene in Terminator 2: Judgment Day was done without CGI, as James Cameron was aiming for maximum realism. The stunt was performed using a real Freightliner FLA 8664, which was specially modified to strengthen its suspension so that it would not collapse upon impact with the concrete bottom of the canal. A fake "brick" wall made of foam and plywood was built over the bridge to hide the ramp, so that the truck would fall from a height of 9 meters into the canal more effectively.

The truck was not driven by Robert Patrick, but by an experienced stuntman, who had to land the car precisely, avoiding a rollover.

To soften the impact, an earthen cushion was made at the crash site, which was then removed, creating the illusion that the truck simply landed on concrete. The stunt was filmed simultaneously from several cameras, as it would have been too expensive and dangerous to repeat. The original truck was badly damaged after the fall, so another identical truck was used to continue the scene.

The sparks, debris, and destruction during the impact were created using real special effects - explosive charges were installed on the truck, activated at the right moment. Although the fall was real, the car was secured with special cables before the stunt to prevent an uncontrolled rollover. The scene was filmed on a tight schedule, since the Los Angeles drainage canal could not be blocked for long.