Arnold Schwarzenegger: His Best Military Movies Ranked

Hey guys! Let's dive into the action-packed world of Arnold Schwarzenegger and his most iconic military movies. From his early days as a bodybuilder to becoming a Hollywood superstar, Arnold has always had a knack for playing tough, no-nonsense characters, and his military roles are no exception. So, grab your popcorn, and let's get started!

Predator (1987)

Predator is arguably one of Arnold Schwarzenegger's most memorable military movies, blending action, sci-fi, and horror into a thrilling cinematic experience. Arnold plays Major Alan "Dutch" Schaefer, the leader of an elite special forces team sent into the jungles of Central America on a rescue mission. What starts as a seemingly straightforward operation quickly turns into a desperate fight for survival against a technologically advanced alien hunter.

Dutch is the epitome of a strong, resourceful military leader. He's skilled in combat, intelligent, and deeply cares for his team. As the Predator begins to hunt down his squad one by one, Dutch's determination to protect his men and defeat the Predator becomes the driving force of the movie. Schwarzenegger's portrayal of Dutch showcases his ability to blend physical prowess with tactical acumen, making him a formidable opponent against an enemy unlike any he's ever faced.

The film is notable for its intense action sequences and the suspenseful atmosphere created by the unseen Predator. The camaraderie among Dutch's team members adds depth to the story, making their eventual demise at the hands of the Predator all the more impactful. The movie's success spawned several sequels and spin-offs, but the original remains a classic, largely due to Schwarzenegger's commanding performance and the innovative creature design of the Predator itself. His final confrontation with the Predator, where he uses his wits and the jungle environment to his advantage, is a testament to his character's resilience and resourcefulness.

Commando (1985)

Commando is an unadulterated action masterpiece that solidified Arnold Schwarzenegger's status as an action icon. In this film, Arnold plays John Matrix, a retired Delta Force operative living a peaceful life in the mountains with his daughter Jenny, played by Alyssa Milano. However, his tranquil existence is shattered when a group of mercenaries kidnaps Jenny to force Matrix to carry out a political assassination. Of course, Matrix isn't one to back down, and he embarks on a one-man war to rescue his daughter.

What makes Commando so enjoyable is its over-the-top action and Schwarzenegger's larger-than-life portrayal of John Matrix. The film is packed with explosive action sequences, ridiculous stunts, and cheesy one-liners that have become legendary. Matrix is portrayed as nearly invincible, mowing down hordes of enemies with an array of weapons and creative tactics. He's a force of nature, driven by his love for his daughter and his unwavering determination to save her.

Commando is a quintessential 80s action flick, embracing its absurdity and delivering a non-stop thrill ride. Schwarzenegger's performance is both charismatic and intimidating, making Matrix a memorable and iconic action hero. The film's success lies in its simplicity: a straightforward plot, over-the-top action, and a hero you can't help but root for. Whether he's wielding a massive machine gun or delivering a memorable quip, Schwarzenegger's John Matrix is a force to be reckoned with.

Raw Deal (1986)

Raw Deal, also known as Triple Identity, showcases Arnold Schwarzenegger as Mark Kaminsky, a former FBI agent who is now a sheriff in a small town. His past comes back to haunt him when an old colleague, Harry Shannon, asks for his help in infiltrating the Chicago Mafia. Shannon's son has been murdered, and he wants Kaminsky to go undercover to bring down the organization responsible. To do so, Kaminsky must fake his own death and assume a new identity.

Schwarzenegger's character in Raw Deal is more complex than some of his other action roles. While he's still a tough and capable fighter, Kaminsky is also portrayed as a man struggling with his past and seeking redemption. He's willing to risk everything to take down the Mafia, even if it means crossing legal and ethical lines. His dedication to justice and his willingness to protect the innocent make him a compelling protagonist.

The film features intense action sequences, including shootouts, car chases, and hand-to-hand combat. Schwarzenegger's physical presence and fighting skills are on full display, as he takes on numerous adversaries. Raw Deal also explores the themes of corruption and betrayal, adding depth to the story beyond the action elements. While it may not be as widely recognized as some of Schwarzenegger's other films, Raw Deal offers a solid action experience with a slightly more nuanced character for the actor to portray.

The 6th Day (2000)

While The 6th Day is more sci-fi than strictly military, it touches on themes relevant to military technology and ethics. Arnold Schwarzenegger plays Adam Gibson, a charter pilot who stumbles upon a dark secret: the illegal cloning of humans. When he becomes a target of those involved in the cloning conspiracy, he must fight to protect his family and expose the truth.

Although Gibson isn't a soldier, the film explores the potential misuse of cloning technology for military purposes. The idea of cloning soldiers raises significant ethical questions about the nature of humanity and the consequences of tampering with life. Schwarzenegger's character is an ordinary man thrust into extraordinary circumstances, forcing him to confront powerful and ruthless adversaries. He relies on his wit, resourcefulness, and courage to survive.

The 6th Day combines action, suspense, and science fiction elements to create a thought-provoking thriller. Schwarzenegger's performance is solid, and the film raises important questions about the ethical implications of advanced technology. The film shows that technology that can save lives can also be used to violate them, and that is important in movies.

Eraser (1996)

In Eraser, Arnold Schwarzenegger plays John Kruger, a U.S. Marshal who specializes in "erasing" witnesses – protecting them by faking their deaths and giving them new identities. His latest assignment involves protecting Lee Cullen, played by Vanessa Williams, a senior executive at a defense contractor who has uncovered evidence of illegal arms sales. When Kruger and Cullen are betrayed by members of Kruger's own team, they must fight to expose the conspiracy and stay alive.

Kruger is a highly skilled operative, trained in combat, surveillance, and deception. He's a master of disappearing people, but he also has a strong moral compass. He's committed to protecting innocent people and bringing criminals to justice. Schwarzenegger's portrayal of Kruger is both tough and compassionate, making him a believable and relatable hero. The plot is gripping, with several twists. Eraser is full of suspense.

The film features spectacular action sequences, including shootouts, explosions, and a memorable showdown on a cargo plane. Schwarzenegger's physical prowess is on full display, as he takes on waves of enemies. Eraser is a high-octane action thriller that showcases Schwarzenegger's ability to deliver thrilling entertainment while also exploring themes of betrayal and corruption.

Conclusion

Arnold Schwarzenegger's military movies have left an indelible mark on the action genre. His commanding presence, physical prowess, and ability to deliver memorable one-liners have made him an icon. Whether he's battling Predators in the jungle, rescuing his daughter from mercenaries, or uncovering conspiracies within the government, Schwarzenegger's characters always rise to the occasion, embodying the qualities of courage, determination, and resilience. So next time you're in the mood for some explosive action, be sure to check out these classic Arnold Schwarzenegger military movies!