Arnold Schwarzenegger, a celebrated figure in Hollywood, has garnered a reputation for his iconic action films. However, not every film in his illustrious career met with success. Recently, he reflected on his feelings of embarrassment regarding the box office failure of a particular cult classic.
Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Rise to Fame
Starting his career in the 1970s, Schwarzenegger quickly became one of the world’s top bodybuilders, winning the Mr. Olympia title seven times. This success in fitness facilitated his transition to acting, where he became a prominent action star during the 1980s and 1990s. Some of his most recognized films include:
- The Terminator series
- Predator
- Total Recall
- Commando
- True Lies
- Conan the Barbarian
Last Action Hero: A Notable Box Office Disappointment
During an episode of Netflix’s documentary series titled “Arnold,” Schwarzenegger candidly discussed his sense of dismay over the poor performance of “Last Action Hero.” The film, released in 1993, was directed by John McTiernan and is categorized as a fantasy action comedy. Despite its initial failure, the movie has since developed a dedicated cult following.
Box Office Performance
“Last Action Hero” had a production budget of $85 million but only managed to gross approximately $137.3 million globally. This financial shortfall marked it as one of Schwarzenegger’s significant setbacks.
Reflecting on Embarrassment and Recovery
In his conversation with director James Cameron, Schwarzenegger expressed how the film’s failure deeply affected him. He stated, “It hurts your feelings. It’s embarrassing.” Cameron recalled that Schwarzenegger sounded devastated, suggesting he was at a low point. He remembered him saying, “I’m just gonna hang out by myself,” reflecting his desire for solitude after the disappointment.
Despite the emotional toll, Schwarzenegger acknowledged the importance of moving forward. He quoted his mother-in-law’s advice: “Let’s just move forward.” This statement highlights his resilience and ability to push through adversity.
Conclusion
Arnold Schwarzenegger’s experience with the box office failure of “Last Action Hero” serves as a reminder that not every project will succeed. However, his journey from embarrassment to resilience showcases the strength required to navigate the ups and downs of a Hollywood career.
