In 1982, Arnold Schwarzenegger solidified himself as one of the biggest action movie stars in Hollywood with his performances in two of the most iconic films of the decade, “Conan the Barbarian” and “The Terminator.” These films not only showcased Schwarzenegger’s impressive physicality and charisma but also cemented his status as a bona fide action movie icon.
“Conan the Barbarian,” directed by John Milius, was released in May of 1982 and marked Schwarzenegger’s first major leading role in a feature film. Based on the character created by author Robert E. Howard, the film follows the adventures of Conan, a muscular warrior seeking revenge against the sorcerer Thulsa Doom, who killed his parents and enslaved him as a child.
Schwarzenegger’s portrayal of Conan was a revelation, with his imposing physical presence and commanding presence on screen earning him critical acclaim and fan adoration. The actor underwent intense physical training to prepare for the role, bulking up his already impressive physique to truly embody the character of the legendary warrior.
“The Terminator,” directed by James Cameron, was released in October of 1982 and introduced audiences to another iconic character played by Schwarzenegger – the titular cyborg assassin sent back in time to kill Sarah Connor, the mother of the future leader of the human resistance against the machines.
The film was a massive hit, propelling Schwarzenegger to new heights of fame and establishing him as a box office draw in his own right. The actor’s deadpan delivery of the now-famous line, “I’ll be back,” became an instant classic, and his relentless pursuit of Sarah Connor throughout the film showcased his ability to portray both menace and vulnerability with equal skill.
In addition to his physicality and charisma, Schwarzenegger’s ability to perform his own stunts and fight sequences added an extra layer of authenticity to his action roles, setting him apart from many of his contemporaries in the genre. His background as a bodybuilder and his dedication to honing his craft as an actor made him a force to be reckoned with on screen, and audiences responded enthusiastically to his larger-than-life persona.
The success of “Conan the Barbarian” and “The Terminator” in 1982 solidified Schwarzenegger’s status as a bankable action star, paving the way for a long and successful career in Hollywood. In the years that followed, he would go on to star in a string of hit films, including “Predator,” “Total Recall,” and “True Lies,” further establishing himself as one of the most recognizable and beloved actors in the industry.
FAQs:
Q: What other films did Arnold Schwarzenegger star in during the 1980s?
A: In addition to “Conan the Barbarian” and “The Terminator,” Schwarzenegger starred in a number of other successful films in the 1980s, including “Predator” (1987), “Commando” (1985), and “The Running Man” (1987).
Q: Was Arnold Schwarzenegger always destined to become an action movie star?
A: Schwarzenegger’s background as a bodybuilder certainly helped him to stand out in the action genre, but his success as an actor was also due to his charisma, work ethic, and dedication to his craft. While he may have seemed like an unlikely choice for leading roles in Hollywood at the beginning of his career, Schwarzenegger’s talent and determination ultimately helped him to become one of the biggest stars of his generation.
Q: How did Arnold Schwarzenegger’s success in the 1980s impact his career moving forward?
A: Schwarzenegger’s success in the 1980s established him as a major player in Hollywood, leading to a string of hit films and high-profile projects in the years that followed. His status as an action movie icon opened up opportunities for him to explore a variety of genres and take on challenging roles, showcasing his versatility as an actor and solidifying his place in cinematic history.