Arnie's story has a little bit of everything - it is to noone's surprise that Netflix attempts a 3-episode mini-series based on his life. Here, the segregation makes perfect sense. This also helps cover various details and developments primarily from the perspective of Arnold himself, alongside the people who were around him in these distinct phases. Part 1 is interesting to those who'd like to know more about his uneasy upbringing in Austria, his body-building days, and the various struggles he faced while also showcasing superlative levels of ambition and determination. For those who have seen Pumping Iron, there probably won't be much to chew on, but hearing it all from the horse's mouth once again (w/ remarkable footage) is always captivating.
Part 2 focuses on what we already know a lot about, with folks like James Cameron, Danny DeVito, Jamie Lee Curtis, and his arch-rival (of the times) Sly Stallone offering insights into his much celebrated film career. This is the episode where Arnie gets a bit self-indulgent, and he, for sure, indirectly propagated the idea of masculinity among mainstream audiences by being the invincible saviour (or the killing machine) - bikes, tanks, leather jackets, cigars, and a beefy body all part of the "star" package. It's the same thing that WWE did with Hulk Hogan back then. They created a pop culture icon that Americans and people around the world could look up to. But when you look at Arnie's filmography, you wouldn't stumble across many memorable characters except for The Terminator, and that isn't the kind of role you get a Golden Globe or an Academy Award nomination for.
Part 3 was truly the most discerning, given how his political career boasted greater dramatic highs and lows compared to his film career. His personal life also goes for a toss at this time, with past demons catching up to him. Thankfully, his failures are not brushed aside as insignificant, and they're duly acknowledged. In fact, it is clearly reflected in the way how Arnie lives his life in his mansion mostly around a bunch of animals (and not his family), and only one of his children agree to feature in the series, and even she doesn't offer a sound bite. The separation from his wife Maria and the late acceptance of a child-out-of-wedlock are also discussed, and surprisingly, there's a short scene of Arnie and his neglected son (who resembles him the most) working out together too.
Considering the overall picture, this is Arnold telling his version of his story. It is beautifully told, and the visual choices employed by director Lesley Chilcott are enjoyable (especially loved that dimly lit room where Arnie sits and glances at photographs). He will continue to remain a man who made a difference - be it in the world of body-building, cinema, or politics.
