Arnold Schwarzenegger’s underrated film from the late 1990s, End of Days, is now available to stream on Prime Video, offering fans a chance to revisit a distinctive entry in his career. Released in 1999, this movie places Schwarzenegger in a unique role where he confronts supernatural evil during the impending turn of the millennium.
A Unique Blend of Horror, Action, and Supernatural Drama
End of Days stars Schwarzenegger alongside Gabriel Byrne, Robin Tunney, Kevin Pollack, Rod Steiger, and CCH Pounder. The film tells the story of Jericho Cane, a flawed former NYPD detective who becomes entangled in a spiritual conflict after saving a banker. Jericho must protect Christine, played by Robin Tunney, a young woman destined by dark forces to give birth to the Antichrist. This plot weaves together elements of horror, science fiction, and action, marking a departure from Schwarzenegger’s typical roles.
Set against the backdrop of New Year’s Eve 1999, End of Days incorporates the anxiety surrounding the Y2K phenomenon, with the impending midnight hour serving as a critical deadline for the spreading of evil. The film’s premise pushes Schwarzenegger into a role that is emotionally layered and psychologically complex, contrasting with his more straightforward action-hero performances.
Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Most Emotionally Complex Performance
Although End of Days did not receive widespread critical acclaim on release, holding an 11% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and earning several Razzie nominations including one for Schwarzenegger as Worst Actor, the film has notable merits. The character of Jericho Cane is portrayed with vulnerability and depth, showing a man weighed down by grief and inner turmoil. Rather than simply relying on action heroics, Schwarzenegger delivers a performance that reflects his protagonist’s struggle with personal demons while facing literal ones.
Jericho’s journey involves grappling with loss, temptation, and a battle of faith as he protects Christine from Satan’s relentless pursuit. This emotional complexity adds an unexpected dimension to the movie, elevating it beyond its horror-action genre and inviting viewers to consider themes of morality and redemption.
The Film’s Lasting Impact and Contemporary Relevance
More than two decades after its release, the tension and themes of End of Days remain resonant. The depiction of apocalyptic fears tied to Y2K and the fight between good and evil continue to engage audiences today, offering a distinct cultural snapshot of the time. Streaming availability on Prime Video now provides a renewed opportunity for audiences to re-experience this dark, intense film outside of the usual Schwarzenegger canon.
End of Days stands as a testament to Schwarzenegger’s range, showcasing his ability to inhabit a human and emotionally complex character within a high-stakes, supernatural narrative. For viewers interested in his lesser-known roles, this film offers a compelling blend of thrills and introspection.
End of Days is now streaming on Prime Video, ready to be rediscovered by fans old and new.
