Arnold Schwarzenegger’s name is synonymous with action cinema. With a career spanning over four decades, Schwarzenegger cemented his legacy, as one of the greatest action stars of the end of the 20th century. His films are known for their larger-than-life characters, explosive set pieces, and unforgettable one-liners.
Here are our top five Arnold Schwarzenegger action movies that define his illustrious career.
1. The Terminator (1984)
Directed by James Cameron, “The Terminator” is the film that made Schwarzenegger a household name. Playing the role of a cyborg assassin sent from the future, Schwarzenegger delivers a performance that is both menacing and iconic. The film’s blend of science fiction and action was groundbreaking, and Schwarzenegger’s deadpan portrayal of the futuristic killer machine Terminator—summed up by the unforgettable line, “I’ll be back”—has become a staple in pop culture.
With Hollywood’s blossoming, computer special effects and a gripping story, intertwined with Cameron’s off screen wife at the time, Linda Hamilton “The Terminator” remains a classic. It dramatically blended futuristic science fiction with the present day and of course, the over-arching concern in the 1980s of possible nuclear war.
2. Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991)
The sequel to The Terminator, came almost a decade later with “Terminator 2: Judgment Day,” It elevated Schwarzenegger’s action star status to even greater levels. Once again, directed by James Cameron, the film introduced the world to a more complex Terminator—one who has been reprogrammed to protect the future leader of the “human resistance,” in John Connor rather than kill him. That twist in the movie’s plot was combined with technological marvels.
This included showcasing groundbreaking CGI, computerized special effects and animation that brought the T-1000, a shape-shifting, Terminator antagonist played by Robert Patrick, to life. Schwarzenegger’s role as a sympathetic cyborg, combined with relentless action sequences and a powerful narrative about fate and family, solidified “Terminator 2” as one of the greatest action films ever made.
3. Predator (1987)
In “Predator” Schwarzenegger teams up with an ensemble cast of action stars, including Carl Weathers (of “Rocky” fame) and former professional wrestler/commentator, Jesse “The Body” Ventura, to face an alien hunter in the dense jungles of Central America.
Directed by John McTiernan, this film predates the Terminator sequel, but it still blends sci-fi with a survivalist thriller. Most importantly, Schwarzenegger’s portrayal of Dutch, a tough-as-nails special forces commander, is central to its appeal. The most intense “twist” of the movie is that the member’s of Dutch’s unit and being hunted/executed one by one by the Predator.
The film’s suspenseful atmosphere, combined with its intense action scenes and the eerie presence of the extraterrestrial predator, has made it a beloved classic in Schwarzenegger’s filmography.
4. Total Recall (1990)
Directed by Paul Verhoeven, “Total Recall” is a high-octane blend of science fiction and action. Based on a story by Philip K. Dick, the film features Schwarzenegger as Douglas Quaid, a construction worker who discovers that his memories might be fabricated and that he’s actually a secret agent.
Also made, just before “Terminator 2” this film is known for its imaginative storytelling, elaborate set pieces, and mind-bending twists. Schwarzenegger’s performance, coupled with the film’s impressive practical effects and imaginative visuals, make “Total Recall” a memorable standout in the genre.
5. True Lies (1994)
In “True Lies,” Schwarzenegger reunites with director James Cameron for a film that combines action with comedy in a way that only Schwarzenegger can pull off. Playing Harry Tasker, a secret spy leading a double life as a mundane computer salesman, Schwarzenegger delivers a mix of physical prowess and comedic timing. Schwarzenegger’s wife “Helen’ is played by Jamie Lee Curtis and the comedy star Tom Arnold is his partner.
The film features spectacular action sequences, including a memorable scene involving a harrowing helicopter chase, with Harry ultimately saving Helen from falling hundreds of feet to her certain death. This film balances high-octane thrills with sharp humor. And, Schwarzenegger’s charismatic performance with the film’s impressive set pieces make “True Lies” a quintessential example of his ability to blend action with entertainment.
Hear our recounting of “True Lies” as part of our “Summer of ’94” podcast for that blockbuster year of films by clicking play below,
Conclusion
Arnold Schwarzenegger’s career is filled with numerous action-packed films, but these five stand out as the pinnacle of his work in the genre. From the relentless cyborg in “The Terminator” to the humor-filled spy in “True Lies,” Schwarzenegger has left an indelible mark on action cinema. Each of these films showcases different facets of his talents and remains a testament to his enduring appeal as an action star.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to his work, these movies are a must-watch for anyone interested in the action genre.
