Arnold Schwarzenegger is a name that is synonymous with action films and Hollywood stardom. In 1985, Schwarzenegger continued his domination of the silver screen with two blockbuster hits, “Commando” and “Red Sonja.” These films solidified his status as one of the biggest stars in Hollywood and further solidified his reputation as the king of action movies.
“Commando,” released in October 1985, was a high-octane, adrenaline-fueled ride that showcased Schwarzenegger’s physical prowess and charisma. The film follows the story of John Matrix, a retired Special Forces commando who must rescue his daughter from a group of mercenaries who have kidnapped her in order to blackmail him into assassinating a Central American leader.
Schwarzenegger’s portrayal of Matrix was a perfect blend of tough-as-nails grit and tongue-in-cheek humor, making him a hero that audiences could root for and laugh along with. The film’s action sequences were expertly choreographed and executed, with Schwarzenegger taking on hordes of bad guys with his trademark mix of brute force and one-liners.
“Commando” was a box office success, grossing over $57 million worldwide and cementing Schwarzenegger’s status as an A-list action star. The film’s success also helped to launch the careers of its director, Mark L. Lester, and its screenwriter, Steven E. de Souza, both of whom went on to work on other successful action films in the years that followed.
Following the success of “Commando,” Schwarzenegger returned to the screen in December 1985 with “Red Sonja,” a fantasy epic based on the character created by writer Roy Thomas and artist Barry Windsor-Smith for Marvel Comics. Schwarzenegger starred alongside Brigitte Nielsen in the film, playing a skilled warrior named Kalidor who aids Red Sonja in her quest for revenge against the evil queen who murdered her family.
“Red Sonja” was a departure from Schwarzenegger’s usual action-packed fare, but he brought his trademark charisma and physicality to the role of Kalidor, creating a character that was both larger than life and surprisingly nuanced. The film featured impressive sword fights, dazzling special effects, and a sweeping score that added to the epic feel of the story.
While “Red Sonja” was not as big of a box office success as “Commando,” it still performed well at the box office and further solidified Schwarzenegger’s reputation as a versatile actor who could excel in a variety of genres. The film also helped to establish Nielsen as a rising star in Hollywood, paving the way for her own successful acting career in the years that followed.
Overall, 1985 was a banner year for Arnold Schwarzenegger, with “Commando” and “Red Sonja” both cementing his status as one of the biggest stars in Hollywood. His blend of physical prowess, charisma, and comedic timing made him a favorite among audiences, and his willingness to take on a variety of roles helped to solidify his reputation as a versatile actor.
FAQs:
1. What other films did Arnold Schwarzenegger star in during the 1980s?
During the 1980s, Arnold Schwarzenegger starred in a number of other successful films, including “The Terminator” (1984), “Predator” (1987), and “The Running Man” (1987). These films helped to establish Schwarzenegger as one of the most bankable stars in Hollywood and further solidified his reputation as an action movie icon.
2. How did Schwarzenegger’s background as a bodybuilder influence his acting career?
Arnold Schwarzenegger’s background as a bodybuilder helped to shape his iconic on-screen persona, with his chiseled physique and larger-than-life presence helping him to stand out in a crowded field of action stars. His experience as a bodybuilder also provided him with the discipline and work ethic necessary to excel in the demanding world of Hollywood.
3. What were some of the challenges that Arnold Schwarzenegger faced in his acting career?
Despite his success in Hollywood, Arnold Schwarzenegger faced a number of challenges in his acting career, including criticism of his accent and limited acting range. However, Schwarzenegger worked hard to overcome these obstacles, taking on a variety of roles that showcased his versatility and dedication to his craft.
In conclusion, Arnold Schwarzenegger’s domination of Hollywood in 1985 was a testament to his talent, charisma, and work ethic. With the success of “Commando” and “Red Sonja,” Schwarzenegger solidified his status as one of the biggest stars in Hollywood and set the stage for a successful career that would span decades. His blend of action-packed thrills, comedic timing, and larger-than-life presence made him a favorite among audiences, and his willingness to take on a variety of roles helped to establish him as a versatile actor capable of excelling in any genre. Arnold Schwarzenegger truly ruled Hollywood in 1985, and his legacy continues to endure to this day.