Name: Arnold
Genre: Documentary
Released: 2023-06-07T00:00:00+00:00
Cast: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sylvester Stallone

The opening shot of “Arnold” is unforgettable: a slow-motion sequence of Arnold Schwarzenegger, flexing his biceps in that iconic pose from the 1970s. It’s a bold choice, one that immediately sets the tone for this docuseries—we’re not just getting a biography, but a celebration of Schwarzenegger’s larger-than-life persona. The camera lingers on his sculpted form, a visual reminder of the man’s physical prowess and the mythic status he has achieved in popular culture.

This three-part Netflix series, created by Suzanne C. Swindle, Lesley Chilcott, and Katharine Jane Reid, is an ambitious undertaking. It aims to chronicle Schwarzenegger’s multifaceted life and career, from his humble beginnings in Austria to his rise as a bodybuilding champion, his transition into Hollywood stardom, and his unexpected foray into politics as the Governor of California. The series is produced by Allen Hughes’ Defiant Ones Media Group and Lesley Chilcott’s Invented By Girls, with Chilcott herself directing.

What sets “Arnold” apart from other celebrity documentaries is the unprecedented access granted to the filmmakers. Chilcott conducted over forty hours of interviews with Schwarzenegger himself, talking to him on FaceTime three or four times a week for a year-and-a-half. This level of cooperation is evident in the wealth of personal footage and behind-the-scenes moments that make up the series’ fabric. Schwarzenegger’s voice narrates much of the series, providing an intimate and personal perspective on his life.

The docuseries shines when it delves into the early years. The bodybuilding segments are particularly compelling, showcasing Schwarzenegger’s dedication and discipline. We see him training, competing, and ultimately dominating the sport with his iconic physique. These scenes are intercut with interviews from contemporaries like Charles Gaines, offering insights into the world of competitive bodybuilding and Schwarzenegger’s role within it.

The transition to Hollywood is equally fascinating. The series explores how Schwarzenegger leveraged his physicality and charisma to become a movie star. We see clips from his early films like “Conan the Barbarian” and “The Terminator,” along with commentary from industry insiders like Sylvester Stallone and Ivan Reitman. These segments highlight Schwarzenegger’s unique screen presence and his ability to transcend the limitations of his accent and physical type.

However, the series isn’t without its flaws. At times, “Arnold” feels too acquiescing. The docuseries could have delved deeper into some of the more controversial aspects of Schwarzenegger’s life, particularly his governorship. Chilcott herself has stated that she wanted to make another episode dedicated to this period but was rejected. This is a missed opportunity, as the series often skims the surface of complex issues, choosing instead to focus on the glamorous and triumphant moments.

The pacing can feel uneven at times. While some episodes are tightly edited and engaging, others drag, especially when covering the more mundane aspects of Schwarzenegger’s life. A stricter editorial hand could have helped trim the fat and kept the narrative moving at a consistent pace.

But these are minor quibbles in what is ultimately a thoroughly entertaining documentary. “Arnold” may not be the definitive exploration of its subject’s complex legacy, but it’s certainly a fascinating and engaging watch. The series benefits from its access to Schwarzenegger himself, as well as the insights provided by other industry heavyweights.

The performances—if we can call them that—are compelling. Schwarzenegger is, of course, the star, but the series also features insights from other industry heavyweights like Sylvester Stallone, Danny DeVito, and Linda Hamilton. Their anecdotes add depth and texture to the story, providing a well-rounded portrait of the man.

The docuseries is a love letter to Schwarzenegger, one that celebrates his achievements and larger-than-life persona. It’s a series that will appeal to fans of the actor and bodybuilder, as well as those interested in the intersection of sports, entertainment, and politics. However, viewers looking for a more critical examination of Schwarzenegger’s life and legacy may find the series lacking.

In terms of originality, “Arnold” stands out from other celebrity documentaries due to its scope and access. The series covers a wide range of topics, from bodybuilding to Hollywood to politics, providing a comprehensive look at one man’s extraordinary life. However, it could have benefited from a more critical perspective, particularly when dealing with controversial subjects.

As for genre fit, “Arnold” excels as a documentary. It’s informative, engaging, and well-produced, with a wealth of archival footage and interviews. The series is a testament to the power of the documentary form to illuminate and entertain.

In conclusion, “Arnold” is a fascinating and entertaining look at one of the most iconic figures in popular culture.