Review of Running with Arnold (2006) by Tijn J — 19 Jan 2014

Narrated by Alec Baldwin.

Former Variety Film Editor Dan Cox goes after his subject as only an award-winning journalist can in the hotly anticipated, politically charged documentary Running With Arnold. Through interviews, archival footage and comic satire from the likes of Bill Maher and Rob Schneider, Cox tells the story of one of the most recognizable men of our era.

In this detailed political portrait, we learn of how a once skinny farm boy growing up in post-World War II Austria and only barely speaking English went on to become a mega-muscled, mega-star and megalomaniac living the high-life in Hollywood. Cox's endless sources and nose for the news reveals what Schwarzenegger's camp couldn't keep hidden - about his sex life, his ego and his deceptions. Even with the help of infamous Hollywood snoop Anthony Pellicano. Arnold's ambition and cunning can be admirable. In his political ascent, he has become the epitome of The American Dream in well-tailored Armani suits. But there is a sordid side to his glory.

With the Governator in charge of the world's fifth largest economy and a looming big to amend the Constitution to allow for his campaign for the Presidency, Arnold is one of the most subversively powerful men in America. Or at least he thinks he is. The way Arnold sees it, if he wants it, then he gets it. Or at least he should.

Now is the time to decide for yourself if intimidation, broken promises, lies, half truths and a "hands on" approach to women are as acceptable as they are expected in today's American politicos. While you're at it, revel in the kitsch of the perma-tanned muscle man's dazzle as he brings the circus campaign to town.