Arnold Schwarzenegger is a science fiction icon. His films have defined the genre for decades, but which ones stand as his absolute best? Based on critic and fan rankings, here are the top six movies that cemented his sci-fi legacy.

But which of them are the best? Although the actual list is much longer, today let's just focus on the top six. Based on rankings by critics and audience, the following six films are considered his top sci-fi movies.

Top Six Arnold Schwarzenegger Sci-Fi Movies

Here is the full list of the top six Schwarzenegger sci-fi movies that you must watch if you haven't already.

6. The Running Man (1987)

Set in a dystopian future, the story follows Ben Richards, a wrongfully convicted man who is forced to partake in a deadly televised game show where the contestants are forced to save themselves from professional killers who kill for public entertainment.

5. Terminator: Dark Fate (2019)

The film is an alternate sequel to the original series that follows Sarah Connor and the Terminator protecting a young woman, Dani Ramos, from a new, advanced Terminator. The film reunites Linda Hamilton as Sarah Connor and Schwarzenegger’s T-800 for the first time after Judgment Day. 

4. Predator (1987)

Predator is one of Schwarzenegger's most renowned movies. The film follows a special forces team, led by Major Alan "Dutch" Schaefer, who undertake a mission in a Central American jungle, only to discover that they are being hunted by an alien creature. The success of the movie garnered 7 sequels. 

3. Total Recall (1990)

The story follows construction worker Douglas Quaid, who, in the midst of wanting a virtual vacation on Mars, uncovers suppressed memories of being a secret agent. The film was directed by Paul Verhoeven and is known for its complex storyline involving memory manipulation and its Mars background. 

2. The Terminator (1984)

Directed by James Cameron, the film is widely considered a pioneering sci-fi action film for fusing sci-fi with horror and thriller. The film introduced a 37-year-old Schwarzenegger as the T-800, a cyborg sent back in time to eliminate Sarah Connor. The role would later become one of his most recognized roles ever. 

1. Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991)

Also directed by James Cameron, it is the sequel to the 1984 classic and explores Sarah Connor's journey as she continues her war against the machines. But this time, she is not alone; she is joined by her teen son, John Connor, and an unexpected ally. 

The film is ranked among the best sci-fi movies and sequels of all time. It is also renowned for its revolutionary use of CGI and its impact on future blockbusters. 

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Written by

Ruwa Javed

Edited by

Ashvinkumar Patil