Key Takeaways:
– Arnold Schwarzenegger initially turned down the role of the Terminator, considering it detrimental to his career.
– Director James Cameron convinced Schwarzenegger by promising to portray the cyborg killing machine as a cool, and thereby excusable, villain.
– The Terminator gave Schwarzenegger an iconic role that turned him into a movie legend.
– Contrary to rumors, ex-football star O.J. Simpson was never cast as the Terminator.

The Potential In The Terminator Role

Arnold Schwarzenegger's portrayal of the Terminator in James Cameron's classic film series is a cinematic icon. But the journey to casting the former Mr. Universe was a bit of a roller-coaster ride. Arnold initially declined the role of the not-so talkative villain with questionable morals, considering it a potential setback to his burgeoning career as a leading man.

However, James Cameron, the visionary filmmaker, had a different perspective. He spotted the potential for a uniquely memorable villain in the Terminator, believing Schwarzenegger's charisma could translate into a character the audience would cheer for, despite his evil intentions.

The Art of Persuasion by James Cameron

Negotiations took an interesting turn when Cameron promised Schwarzenegger that he would execute it in such a way that the audience would pardon the Terminator's heinous acts simply because he was a ‘cool' machine. This assurance changed the tide in favor of Cameron, and Schwarzenegger agreed to sign up for the film, turning what he thought would be a career setback into a milestone role.

The Terminator, thanks to Schwarzenegger's brooding physique and icy stoicism, became a villain who was as much captivating as he was terrifying. This transformation redefined the entire concept of the movie, invoking a sense of admiration for a supposedly evil character.

The Transformation of The Terminator

The likability of the Terminator exploded in the sequel, “Terminator 2: Judgment Day.” The character transitioned from a relentless predator to a reluctant protector, eliciting laughs from audiences through interactions with a young John Connor, as Schwarzenegger masterfully navigated human quirks and slang despite the inherent emotionless nature of his character.

The Role That Almost Wasn't Schwarzenegger's

As shocking as it may sound, Schwarzenegger was not the first choice for the Terminator role. He once revealed in an interview that O.J. Simpson, the former football star, was the original choice for the cyborg assassin.

However, Cameron was quick to debunk these claims, stating that the idea of O.J. Simpson as the Terminator was dismissed before it ever gained ground. In his view, Schwarzenegger, with his imposing physique, was the perfect fit to portray the relentless killing machine, a decision vindicated by the audience's reaction and the film's enduring popularity.

Watch The Terminator with a new perspective on Amazon Prime, and experience the unique charm of this compelling villain that was brought to life by Arnold Schwarzenegger, thanks to James Cameron's persuasive powers.