Arnold Schwarzenegger shaped the action movie landscape throughout the 1980s, establishing himself as an enduring movie star and cultural icon. This comprehensive ranking of Arnold Schwarzenegger 80s movies explores all the films he led or was significantly featured in during that pivotal decade, analyzing how each one helped build his legendary career.
Schwarzenegger’s Ascent to Movie Stardom in the 1980s
After a handful of memorable appearances in the 1970s, including Hercules in New York, Stay Hungry, and a brief cameo in Robert Altman’s The Long Goodbye, Arnold Schwarzenegger broke into the mainstream thanks to the 1977 documentary Pumping Iron. However, the 1980s would mark his true breakthrough as a genuine movie star, especially once he headlined James Cameron’s The Terminator. With a mix of science fiction, action, and genre-bending comedies, Schwarzenegger’s presence became nearly synonymous with the cinematic landscape of the ‘80s, and his roles showcased his commanding screen presence, signature one-liners, and unique blend of physical prowess and charisma. Following his success in California politics as governor in later years, the foundational decade of the 1980s remains a defining chapter of his acting career.
Ranking Arnold Schwarzenegger’s 1980s Films from Worst to Best
Schwarzenegger’s film output in the 1980s covers a broad spectrum, ranging from cult classics to films best left forgotten. Below, each entry is analyzed for its place in both the actor’s filmography and wider pop culture significance, utilizing his roles alongside contributions from co-stars like Grace Jones, James Earl Jones, Linda Hamilton, and Danny DeVito.
10. Red Sonja (1985): A Misfire from the Conan Universe
Red Sonja was positioned as a spin-off from the successful Conan the Barbarian, although legal restrictions meant Schwarzenegger could not reprise his celebrated role as Conan. Instead, he played Lord Kalidor, a character with similar traits but little narrative importance, resulting in a noticeably diminished presence. The film’s shortcomings are widely acknowledged, with its cheesy tone and lackluster performances often cited as weaknesses. Supposedly, Schwarzenegger himself joked with his children that watching Red Sonja repeatedly could serve as a unique disciplinary measure—fortunately, he claimed never to have followed through. The movie struggles under the weight of poor storytelling and establishes a low bar for the rest of Schwarzenegger’s 80s output.
9. Conan the Destroyer (1984): A Sequel Stuck Between Tones
Hoping to build on the success of its predecessor, Conan the Destroyer opted to tone down the violence and intensity that characterized Conan the Barbarian. With a shift towards a more family-friendly PG rating, the film relies on campy dialogue and outlandish plot points, sacrificing the grit that fans appreciated. At this stage, Schwarzenegger had not yet found his footing in comedic timing, leading to several awkward scenes. Many critics suggest that Grace Jones, who portrays a supporting character, seemed most attuned to the film’s outlandish style, approaching her role with a lively vigor reminiscent of her other performances in action cinema. Ultimately, Conan the Destroyer is widely remembered less for its achievements and more for what it lacks.
8. Raw Deal (1986): Forgettable Crime Drama
Falling among Schwarzenegger’s least memorable movies of the era, Raw Deal is seen as a generic crime thriller that fails to leave a lasting impression. The plot, summarized by the familiar premise:
“Going undercover to dismantle the mob piece by piece”
– Unattributed
offers little innovation, echoing countless other entries in the crime-action genre. Without standout set pieces or compelling antagonists, the movie fades from memory quickly, overshadowed by superior films like The Equalizer, John Wick, or The Untouchables. Raw Deal highlights the importance of engaging action sequences in Schwarzenegger’s wheelhouse, and its lack thereof defines its low position in his ranking.
7. Red Heat (1988): First Foray Into the Buddy Cop Formula
Red Heat marked Schwarzenegger’s tentative step into comedic territory, although he primarily maintained a reserved, stoic persona. The film’s structure is built around the “buddy cop” philosophy, this time pairing Schwarzenegger’s Russian law enforcer with Jim Belushi’s wisecracking American partner. Unfortunately, the two leads lack strong chemistry, and the movie struggles to rise above formulaic storytelling. Although Belushi is handed a particularly grating character, neither actor is able to elevate the material, leaving Red Heat a conventional if not forgettable entry among Schwarzenegger’s 1980s projects.
6. The Running Man (1987): A Satirical Yet Action-Packed Sci-Fi
In The Running Man, Schwarzenegger tackled a science fiction thriller centered on a dystopian television game, blending action with satirical commentary. The film’s focus remains solidly on spectacle and entertainment rather than deeper reflection on societal issues. Comparable to other high-energy works like Edgar Wright’s later remake, The Running Man offers enjoyable light viewing—ideal for a lazy afternoon. Supporting roles from the likes of Maria Conchita Alonso and Jesse Ventura contribute to its fun, but as Stephen King adaptations go, it lags behind contemporary 1980s entries. Still, it delivers more thrills than several other King-inspired movies from the decade.
5. Twins (1988): Comedic Surprise and Unlikely Partnerships
Twins marked the largest comedic deviation from Schwarzenegger’s typical roles, casting him opposite Danny DeVito as mismatched siblings. Rather than depending solely on physical differences for laughs, the film achieves its appeal through genuine chemistry and character-driven humor. Director Ivan Reitman’s approach emphasizes the bond between the two brothers, which keeps the story moving with warmth and heart. Schwarzenegger’s willingness to embrace a less macho, more vulnerable persona pays off, resulting in a surprise box office hit and one of the era’s most endearing odd-couple films. The real-life friendship between Schwarzenegger and DeVito further amplifies the film’s charm.
4. Commando (1985): The Height of Exaggerated Action
Few action movies embrace their own excess as enthusiastically as Commando. Schwarzenegger’s character, John Matrix, embodies the “one man army” archetype, battling an entire force to save his daughter much like Bryan Mills from Taken, though with even more over-the-top action and inventive weapon use. The film is renowned for its self-aware dialogue, tongue-in-cheek violence, and a soundtrack that captures the unrestrained spirit of the ‘80s. Actor Vernon Wells provides a particularly colorful villain, while David Patrick Kelly’s Sully receives several of the film’s legendary quips:
“You’re a funny guy, Sully, I like you, that’s why I’m gonna kill you last”
– Unattributed
“Remember, Sully, when I promised to kill you last? I lied.”
– Unattributed
“Do me a favor, don’t disturb my friend, he’s dead tired”
– Unattributed
These memorable lines, along with the infamous “Let off some steam, Bennett!”, have become embedded within pop culture. Commando represents Schwarzenegger at his most self-referential, and its enduring popularity is a testament to its status as an ‘80s action touchstone.
3. Conan the Barbarian (1982): Sword-and-Sorcery Stardom
Before The Terminator, it was Conan the Barbarian that first gave Schwarzenegger a leading role suited to his formidable physique. With a world built on dark fantasy, charismatic villains, and a gritty, immersive atmosphere, the film showcased both Schwarzenegger’s dramatic limits and his undeniable physical impact. James Earl Jones, as the hypnotic villain, lends gravitas and intensity, while the film’s distinct style edges into B-movie territory without losing audience engagement. Conan the Barbarian would cement Schwarzenegger as a reliable box office force and set the tone for many sword-and-sorcery films to come.
2. Predator (1987): A Near-Perfect 1980s Action Thriller
In Predator, Schwarzenegger plays Dutch Schaefer, the no-nonsense leader of a military rescue team. The film is celebrated for its relentless pacing, tightly orchestrated action sequences, and an iconic monster antagonist. John McTiernan, known for helming Die Hard, brings top-tier direction to a concept that blends war movie elements with ruthless science fiction. Schwarzenegger infuses Dutch with his trademark physicality and clever one-liners, while an ensemble cast elevates every scene. The title creature, designed with chilling originality, has endured as a masterwork in movie creature effects, and Schwarzenegger’s performance is frequently cited as one of his very best. Even decades later, speculation persists about his potential return to the Predator universe, especially given the franchise’s continued evolution under directors like Dan Trachtenberg.
1. The Terminator (1984): A Landmark in Science Fiction Cinema
James Cameron’s The Terminator marked the convergence of concept, casting, and execution, launching Schwarzenegger into superstardom as the relentless T-800. The story blends time travel with a desperate fight for survival, as Linda Hamilton and Michael Biehn’s characters evade a cyborg assassin in a future-altering pursuit. The low budget amplifies a sense of realism and grittiness, whether in neon-lit nightclubs or quiet corners of suburbia. Schwarzenegger’s performance radiates menace and mechanical inevitability—particularly in scenes where he coldly dispenses violence without remorse. The film’s gritty stakes and continuous suspense set it apart from later, larger-scale sequels, and over time, it has only grown in reputation as a foundational science fiction action movie that continues to inspire filmmakers like Edgar Wright. Cameron’s inventive direction, Hamilton’s turn as Sarah Connor, and Schwarzenegger’s iconic presence together deliver a truly lasting cinematic achievement.
Schwarzenegger’s Enduring Impact and What Comes Next
Arnold Schwarzenegger’s 1980s movies made a lasting impact on the action and science fiction genres, setting trends in both visual spectacle and star power. With each film, Schwarzenegger built on his image as both an unstoppable force and a surprisingly nuanced performer in comedies and thrillers. His legacy stretches far beyond the box office numbers, influencing directors such as James Cameron, John McTiernan, and Ivan Reitman. The continued interest in revisiting or rebooting these properties—whether in the Predator series or ongoing discussions about future Terminator reboots—highlights how these films remain central to the conversation about blockbuster cinema. While his time as governor and career in public service opened new chapters, it’s his run of memorable roles in the 1980s that solidifies his place as a pop culture legend.
From the sword-wielding intensity of Conan the Barbarian to the sci-fi legacy of The Terminator, the ranking of Arnold Schwarzenegger 80s movies remains a riveting journey through a decade that defined the modern action hero.
