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There's an exploration of the mandatory military service in Austria and the country's involvement in World War II, the PTSD of its soldiers and the effect of losing the war on its people. Arnold Schwarzenegger reflects on his own experience as a tank driver, with accompanying black and white war footage evoking the past. Proposition 49, California's afterschool care act, is discussed and the California recall election takes center stage, offering insights into the state's political landscape. The documentary briefly delves into notable events such as Ted Kennedy's scandal that left a woman dead and the assassinations of JFK and RFK. It further delves into Arnold's strategic approach to passing legislation, emphasizing the effectiveness of gathering signatures for initiatives to get laws passed. The impact of the 2008 financial crisis is covered, shedding light on its global ramifications. Moreover, Arnold's involvement in public campaigns addressing vital issues is highlighted, ranging from promoting COVID-19 vaccinations to combating anti-Semitism, and educating the Russian people and soldiers about the true nature of Russia's war on Ukraine. Finally, Arnold speaks out against propaganda, White supremacy, and condemns the January 6th insurrection in the U.S.
Positive Messages
a lot
Arnold's journey is characterized by a fierce determination and an unyielding work ethic, as highlighted throughout the series. The power of visualization and the concept of self-fulfilling prophecies resonate deeply with him. Arnold emphasizes that a strong mind is essential for building strong muscles, recognizing that mental resilience is something no one can take away. As he forms close bonds with the wife and son of his idols, the importance of family also becomes ingrained in his values. Adversity repeatedly tests Arnold, yet he consistently overcomes challenges on his path to success. He draws inspiration from Nietzsche's famous quote, "That which does not kill us makes us stronger," and adopts a guiding life principle of "staying busy, be useful."
Positive Role Models
some
Arnold is extremely hard working and believes that he can do whatever he puts his mind to from a very young age. He talks about overcoming his shyness by pushing himself on stage during his bodybuilding phase. He also says, "I alone can't accomplish anything, I need help." He apologizes for and owns up to many of his mistakes (though the show also somewhat glosses over the sexual assault claims against him). He opens up about having a very close male friendship and his sorrow when his friend died. He also says he doesn't understand the idea of treating someone as the enemy because "I can work with anyone."
Diverse Representations
a little
There are a few competitors who are Black during Arnold's bodybuilding phase but nearly everyone interviewed is for the docuseries is White. Arnold does speak out against White supremacy and antisemitism.
The series addresses Arnold's childhood, discussing the mental and physical abuse he endured from his parents, along with the prevalence of such abuse in his neighborhood. It briefly shows footage of World War II and mentions his father's experience being buried under rubble and suffering from PTSD as a soldier. Violent scenes from Arnold's movies, including guns, explosions, swords, and fist fighting, are repeatedly shown. Arnold is seen driving his private tank, and a story of intimidation with a gun is mentioned. Arnold shares his medical scare of a failed heart surgery and an immediate second operation. The series references the assassinations of JFK and RFK, the PTSD suffered by ex-wife Maria Shriver, and the incident involving Ted Kennedy that resulted in a woman's death. The sexual assault allegations against Arnold, including groping, lewd comments, and attempted removal of a woman's bathing suit, are covered, along with quotes from the accusers. Schwarzenegger's sexist and homophobic comments, such as "girlie-man," are mentioned.
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The series explores Arnold's early motivations, mentioning his attraction to beautiful women being drawn to bodybuilders. Scenes depict him kissing girls he doesn't know as he wins Mr. Universe, women in bikinis often around the bodybuilders, engaging in activities like rubbing oil on them. Brief scenes of adults kissing are also included as well as a movie scene of Arnold shown naked from the side. Arnold makes a comparison between "pumping iron" and the experience of a girl having sex and reaching orgasm. The documentary references a porn star and a porn producer who ran for California governor. The sexual assault allegations against Schwarzenegger are covered, including claims of groping, lewd comments, and an incident where he allegedly tried to remove a woman's bathing suit in an elevator. A woman's quote highlights the humiliation experienced, while Arnold denies the accusations, stating, "I have never grabbed anyone... pulling up their shirts and rubbing their breasts, this is not me."
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Regular use of profanity including "Jesus," "bulls--t," "damn," "ballsy," "f--k," "a--hole," and "son of a b-tch" as well as some suggestive comments like "You are so sexy."
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Arnold discusses the large sums of money he made selling supplements and other products aimed at improving physical appearance. He expresses a desire for grandeur, stating that "big is not big enough" when referring to his massive home. The series explores his involvement in promoting and popularizing cigars, Hummers, and oversized watches. Additionally, Arnold showcases his collection of military-style vehicles, playfully remarking on the notion of "boys and their toys."
Drinking, Drugs & Smoking
a lot
The series opens with Arnold smoking a cigar and he continually glorifies smoking, stating that it represents who he is. He proudly mentions setting up a "smoking tent" outside the governor's office, where politicians would join him in smoking cigars. Many people are shown smoking in the series. Beer gardens in Austria are depicted. Arnold discusses his use of steroids as a part of his training regime, downplaying the serious health risks by mentioning doctor supervision and only periodic usage before competitions. He shares the tragic story of his brother's death due to drunk driving, and addresses the abuse he, his brother, and his mother endured from his father during his drinking episodes.
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Parents need to know that Arnold is an educational and insightful documentary into the bodybuilding, acting, and political stages of Arnold Schwarzenegger's life. Violent scenes from his movies are shown regularly and other topics that may be troubling to young viewers are discussed, including war, PTSD, assassinations, drunk driving deaths, alcoholism, domestic abuse, marital affairs, lewd comments, and sexual assault. Arnold does apologize to his victims but never fully takes accountability for his actions. He delves into the affair with his housekeeper that led to a son and, ultimately, the end of his marriage to Maria Shriver when his family discovered he'd been hiding the child for years. He also repeatedly glorifies cigar smoking and discusses the use of steroids as a part of his body building regimen without discussing the associated dangers. He talks frequently about perseverance and the importance of hard work as well as the importance of being willing to work with anyone. At the end of the series Arnold's involvement in public campaigns addressing vital issues is highlighted, ranging from promoting Covid-19 vaccinations to combating antisemitism, and educating the Russian people and soldiers about the true nature of Russia's war on Ukraine. Finally, Arnold speaks out against propaganda, White supremacy, and condemns the January 6th insurrection in America.
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What's the Story?
In ARNOLD, the story of Arnold Schwarzenegger's life is told in three stage; the body builder, the movie star, and the politician. Interviews and TV footage from throughout his career are spliced with Arnold at 75, looking straight into the camera and reflecting on it all.
This docuseries tells a remarkable, if somewhat biased, story of perseverance, self-actualization, and compromise. Arnold is an intriguing portrayal of Schwarzenegger's transformation from a young Austrian boy dreaming of becoming Mr. Universe, to a Hollywood superstar, and ultimately, the governor of California. It skillfully weaves together old documentary and interview footage with present-day conversations, providing viewers with a clear look into the ways Arnold has changed with age -- and the ways he hasn't -- revealing his intense drive and emotionally restrained nature but also his ability to recognize and overcome mistakes. The docuseries also highlights his deep pride in being "made in America" and his admiration for Ronald Reagan's administration, albeit with a clear bias, as well as his passionate environmentalism. Schwarzenegger's unwavering determination and ability to manifest his dreams through a unique open mindedness are undeniably awe-inspiring, but the series is not without its flaws. The documentary delves into the sexual harassment and assault allegations against Schwarzenegger, but his response is a somewhat ambiguous apology. Audiences will get the sense he's glossing over some of the troubles he's experienced in his personal life as well. All in all, though, this is a docuseries that will draw in viewers from all walks of life.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how the sexual assault accusations were covered in this series. Was it a balanced representation? Were Arnold's apologies sufficient? Who produced this series and how do you think that affected the coverage of this topic?
Discuss the lessons that Arnold says he learned about teamwork throughout his life. How did working with others help him in each stage of his life? How did it effect his political career? Do you know of any current politicians who have a similar attitude?
How has Arnold demonstrated perseverance? What are some of the obstacles he's had to overcome in each of the three acts of his life? Why is this such an important character strength?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
suggesting a diversity update.
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
