Tag: fubar

  • TV Review: ‘FUBAR’ Season 2

    Arnold Schwarzenegger as Luke Brunner in episode 205 of 'Fubar.' Photo: Courtesy of Netflix © 2025Arnold Schwarzenegger as Luke Brunner in episode 205 of 'Fubar.' Photo: Courtesy of Netflix © 2025
    Arnold Schwarzenegger as Luke Brunner in episode 205 of ‘Fubar.’ Photo: Courtesy of Netflix © 2025

    ‘FUBAR’ Season 2 receives 7 out of 10 stars.

    Released on Netflix on June 12th, ‘FUBAR’ Season 2 gets us back in action with Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Luke Brunner for another blend of spy thrills and comedy.

    The cast also includes Monica Barbaro (‘A Complete Unknown’), Fortune Feimster (‘Barb & Star go to Vista Del Mar’), Travis Van Winkle (‘Road House’), Jay Baruchel (‘BlackBerry’), Scott Thompson (‘Kids in the Hall: Brain Candy’) and, new this season, Carrie-Anne Moss (‘The Matrix’) and Guy Burnet (‘Oppenheimer’).

    Related Article: ‘FUBAR’ Forefronts an Entertaining Arnold Schwarzenegger Surrounded by a Funny, Likeable Cast

    Initial Thoughts

    Carrie-Anne Moss as Greta Nelso in episode 203 of 'Fubar.' Photo: Courtesy of Netflix © 2025
    Carrie-Anne Moss as Greta Nelso in episode 203 of ‘Fubar.’ Photo: Courtesy of Netflix © 2025

    If you’re craving some Arnold Schwarzenegger action, but don’t want to dive into some of the dodgier straight-to-home-entertainment movies he’s made of late, the return of ‘FUBAR’ might satisfy you.

    We says “might,” as this is very much a Your Mileage May Vary series –– if your tolerance for Schwarzenegger taking stabs at being funny and a narrative that puts laughs over stunts (though there are still some impressive moments) –– isn’t all that high, then this might not be the show for you.

    Script and Direction

    (L to R) Fortune Feimster as Roo Russell, Travis Van Winkle as Aldon Reece in episode 201 of 'Fubar.' Photo: Christos Kalohoridis/Netflix © 2025
    (L to R) Fortune Feimster as Roo Russell, Travis Van Winkle as Aldon Reece in episode 201 of ‘Fubar.’ Photo: Christos Kalohoridis/Netflix © 2025

    ‘FUBAR’ was created and is run by Nick Santora, who has had a hand in shows such as network procedural offering ‘Scorpion’ and Prime Video’s ‘Reacher.’ He certainly knows a thing or two about how to make funny live alongside spy material or vigilante action, but with ‘FUBAR,’ he’s created a delivery system for two things: Schwarzenegger channeling his past career and workplace comedy that just happens to feature big threats as part of its DNA.

    For the most part, the scripts walk the line between the two on an effective level, helped by the cast. The show is never going to be the funniest or most action-packed out there, but if you’ve enjoyed its charms in the past, Season 2 certainly keeps up the same quality level.

    (L to R) Fabiana Udenio as Tally Brunner, Arnold Schwarzenegger as Luke Brunner in episode 201 of 'Fubar.' Photo: Christos Kalohoridis/Netflix © 2025
    (L to R) Fabiana Udenio as Tally Brunner, Arnold Schwarzenegger as Luke Brunner in episode 201 of ‘Fubar.’ Photo: Christos Kalohoridis/Netflix © 2025

    Shoving the characters together in a safe house for a couple of episodes gives plenty of material for them clashing comically with each other, and several finding creative ways to get out and pursue their interests (see Monica Barbaro’s Emma dominating local paintball tournaments) is good for chuckle.

    Once the major plot kicks back in again, the show returns to what worked about the first season, and for the most part it’s entertaining.

    On the directorial front, the limitations of even a Netflix budget (and we’re certainly not talking money on the level of, say, ‘Stranger Things’ here), do sometimes shine through, but directors Phil Abraham and Jeff T. Thomas make the most of what they have.

    Cast and Performances

    Monica Barbaro as Emma Brunner in episode 204 of 'Fubar.' Photo: Courtesy of Netflix © 2025
    Monica Barbaro as Emma Brunner in episode 204 of ‘Fubar.’ Photo: Courtesy of Netflix © 2025

    Let’s be honest here: Arnie is Arnie. He’s a movie star whose best days are perhaps behind him, but he certainly throws himself into all aspects of the series. He’s not afraid to make fun of himself and his back catalogue and while he can’t quite do everything he once did on the stunt front, he’s convincing enough with the help of a team.

    It’s also clear he’s having fun here, chomping on cigars, getting to interact with the rest of the cast and generally nodding towards past glories.

    As Emma, Monica Barbaro continues to be among the highlights, balancing a light comic tone with committed action chops. She’s equally adept playing farcical moment with the likes of Jay Baruchel as she is looking like a badass when called upon.

    Fortune Feimster, Milan Carter and Travis Van Winkle are still worth watching as Luke Brenner’s support team and surrogate family Roo, Barry and Aldon, and while Milan Carter is somewhat sidelined this year, he still gets some fun moments.

    Jay Baruchel, even more than Carter, comes off worse this time around –– not because of his performance, which is still giddily entertaining, but because his character, Emma’s former fiancé, simply doesn’t have as much to do any more.

    Still stealing scenes every time he’s in them is Scott Thompson as Dr. Pfeffer –– he’s a delight, and fans of the first season will be happy to know his puppet obsession is undimmed.

    Guy Burnet as Theodore Chips in episode 202 of 'Fubar.' Photo: Dušan Martinček/Netflix © 2025
    Guy Burnet as Theodore Chips in episode 202 of ‘Fubar.’ Photo: Dušan Martinček/Netflix © 2025

    The new recruits for this season include Carrie-Anne Moss, who clearly relishes playing Luke’s former flame and a master spy in her own right, Greta Nelso. She goes full femme fatale, and plays well off of Schwarzenegger.

    Finally, there’s Guy Burnet as Theodore Chips, a James Bond riff whose character pivots between hero and villain. Burnet is excellent in the role, whether he’s trying to flirt with Emma or threatening the team.

    Final Thoughts

    (L to R) Travis Van Winkle as Aldon Reece, Guy Burnet as Theodore Chips in episode 206 of 'Fubar.' Photo: Christos Kalohoridis/Netflix © 2025
    (L to R) Travis Van Winkle as Aldon Reece, Guy Burnet as Theodore Chips in episode 206 of ‘Fubar.’ Photo: Christos Kalohoridis/Netflix © 2025

    ‘FUBAR’ certainly has niche appeal, but what it does, it does well, delivering Arnie puns, some level of spy craft and plenty of silly moments (Van Winkle and a pig are a particular highlight.

    That’s it and that’s all. But hopefully this won’t be it and all for the show.

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    What’s the plot of ‘FUBAR?

    The initial season of the series follows Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Luke Brunner, a CIA operative with a knack for inventively taking down bad guys and a venerable reputation at the agency.

    But Luke, long since realizing the toll his job and its need for total secrecy had on his family –– he’s been divorced from wife Tally (Fabiana Udenio) for nearly 20 years –– is ready to retire. He plans to win his wife back and properly reconnect with his grown children, especially Emma (Monica Barbaro).

    Before he can really call it quits, though, he’s informed that Boro (Gabriel Luna), the son of a terrorist Luke dispatched years ago while working undercover, has resurfaced and is aiming to relaunch his father’s dangerous organization with even more vehemence.

    Season 2 picks up with Brunner, Emma and their family, friends and colleagues going stir crazy in a safe house. But then Luke learns that not only has old flame Greta Nelso returned, but there’s a new threat out there –– and he’s the only one who can stop it.

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    Who stars in ‘FUBAR’ Season 2?

    • Arnold Schwarzenegger as Luke Brunner
    • Monica Barbaro as Emma Brunner
    • Fortune Feimster as Roo
    • Travis Van Winkle as Aldon Reese
    • Aparna Brielle as Tina Mukerji
    • Fabiana Udenio as Tally Brunner
    • Jay Baruchel as Carter
    • Milan Carter as Barry Putt
    • Scott Thompson as Dr. Pfeffer
    • Carrie-Anne Moss as Greta Nelso
    • Guy Burnet as Theodore Chips
    (L t R) Jay Baruchel as Carter Perlmutter, Milan Carter as Barry Putt, Fabiana Udenio as Tally Brunner in episode 203 of 'Fubar.' Photo: Courtesy of Netflix © 2025
    (L t R) Jay Baruchel as Carter Perlmutter, Milan Carter as Barry Putt, Fabiana Udenio as Tally Brunner in episode 203 of ‘Fubar.’ Photo: Courtesy of Netflix © 2025

    Selected Arnold Schwarzenegger Movies:

    Buy Arnold Schwarzenegger Movies on Amazon

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  • Netflix’s TUDUM Event: News and Trailers

    Chris Hemsworth attends the Netflix's Tudum: A Global Fan Event 2023 at Fundação Bienal de São Paulo on June 17, 2023 in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
    Chris Hemsworth attends the Netflix’s Tudum: A Global Fan Event 2023 at Fundação Bienal de São Paulo on June 17, 2023 in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Photo by Alexandre Schneider/Getty Images for NETFLIX.

    After a couple of years of having stars show up in front of greenscreens to be composited into a fancy virtual stage to promote their latest wares, streaming giant Netflix was able to go live for the third TUDUM event: think Comic-Con meets a shareholder meeting, all entirely built around the company’s big hit shows, big name stars and those it has coming in the future.

    Held this year in Brazil, the event was more raucous than ever as a parade of famous faces and some rising stars took to the stage (or sent videos) to raise fans’ anticipation for what they can expect in the coming months.

    If you didn’t watch it, here’s a handy guide to our picks of what you missed…

    ‘Extraction 3’ is in the works

    TUDUM 2023: A Global Fan Event.
    TUDUM 2023: A Global Fan Event. Photo: Vans Bumbeers / Netflix © 2023.

    Given that ‘Extraction 2’ only just hit Netflix’s servers this past weekend, don’t go thinking that the new movie will be here particularly soon.

    But star Chris Hemsworth (who plays veteran soldier Tyler Rake) and director Sam Hargrave arrived to thank fans for their support of the movies so far and promise more to come.

    At least, in Hemsworth’s words, they’re talking about a third entry. And if we know anything about Tyler Rake, it’s that he’s exceedingly hard to kill.

    ‘Squid Game’s future

    TUDUM 2023: A Global Fan Event.
    TUDUM 2023: A Global Fan Event. Photo: Vans Bumbeers / Netflix © 2023.

    With ‘Squid Game’ proving to be one of the company’s biggest hits, Netflix is naturally getting as much as it can out of the Korean series.

    Yet because creator Hwang Dong-hyuk takes his time making the show, there was no release date to tease just yet. Work is under way on Season 2, though, and Netflix was able to announce that stars Lee Jung-jae, Lee Byung-hun, Wi Ha-jun, and Gong Yoo will all be returning for the second installment, joining new cast members Yim Si-wan, Kang Ha-neul, Park Sung-hoon, and Yang Dong-geun.

    There was more to show from the company’s reality game show based on the series. Yes, for those applied to compete in non-lethal versions of ‘Squid Game’s trials, the first teaser for ‘Squid Game: The Challenge’ ran as part of the event. The show will premiere this coming November.

    ‘All the Light We Cannot See’

    Taz Skylar, Iñaki Godoy, Emily Rudd, Mackenyu and Jacob Romero Gibson attend the Netflix's Tudum: A Global Fan Event 2023 at Fundação Bienal de São Paulo on June 17, 2023 in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
    (L to R) Taz Skylar, Iñaki Godoy, Emily Rudd, Mackenyu and Jacob Romero Gibson attend the Netflix’s Tudum: A Global Fan Event 2023 at Fundação Bienal de São Paulo on June 17, 2023 in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Photo by Alexandre Schneider/Getty Images for NETFLIX.

    Upcoming from prolific producer/director Shawn Levy (who lists ‘Stranger Things’ among the projects he works on) is a new limited series called ‘All the Light We Cannot See’.

    Based on Anthony Doerr’s Pulitzer Prize–winning novel of the same name, the limited series takes viewers back in time to German-occupied Paris. The coming-of-age story follows French teenager Marie-Laure (Aria Mia Loberti) who is blind and connects with Werner (Louis Hofmann), a German orphan, through radio frequencies. As Marie-Laure and her father (Mark Ruffalo) flee Paris to her uncle’s (Hugh Laurie) house in Saint-Malo, the two strangers’ paths intertwine.

    The series itself will release on November 2nd.

    ‘FUBAR’ scores a second season

    TUDUM 2023: A Global Fan Event.
    TUDUM 2023: A Global Fan Event. Photo: Helena Yoshioka / Netflix © 2023.

    Arnold Schwarzenegger, already anointed as Netflix’s Chief Action Officer, is sticking around beyond the first season of spy comedy series ‘FUBAR’ and the ‘Arnold’ documentary.

    Schwarzenegger was at the TUDUM event in person to explain what he loves about Brazil and to thank those present and audiences around the world for watching ‘FUBAR’. Despite less-than-glowing reviews, the show will be back for a second season.

    The action icon also debuted a blooper reel from the first season:

    Related Article: Andy Serkis and ‘Luther’ Creator Neil Cross Talk ‘Luther: The Fallen Sun’

    ‘3 Body Problem’

    TUDUM 2023: A Global Fan Event.
    TUDUM 2023: A Global Fan Event. Photo: Vans Bumbeers / Netflix © 2023.

    One of the most anticipated new offerings is the adaptation of Cixin Liu’s best-selling sci-fi trilogy of novels. And it boasts two showrunners who know a thing or two about bringing big books to small screens –– ‘Game of Thrones’ veterans David Benioff and DB Weiss.

    Liu’s tomes tell a sprawling story about alien contact and humanity’s shifting fortunes, but here’s your basic synopsis:

    “A young woman’s fateful decision in 1960s China reverberates across space and time to a group of brilliant scientists in the present day. As the laws of nature unravel before their eyes, five former colleagues reunite to confront the greatest threat in humanity’s history.”

    The cast for this show includes Jess Hong, Benedict Wong, Eiza González, Jovan Adepo, Alex Sharp, John Bradley, Saamer Usmani, Liam Cunningham, Rosalind Chao, Jonathan Pryce, Marlo Kelly, Sea Shimooka, Ben Schnetzer and Zine Tseng. ‘3 Body Problem’ launches its first eight-episode season on Netflix in January.

    ‘Avatar: The Last Airbender’ live-action series

    TUDUM 2023: A Global Fan Event.
    TUDUM 2023: A Global Fan Event. Photo: Vans Bumbeers / Netflix © 2023.

    Nothing to do with James Cameron’s giant movie franchise, the manga and anime versions of ‘Avatar’ are themselves hugely popular.

    Set in an Asiatic, war-torn world where certain people can “bend” one of the four classical elements: water, earth, fire, or air. Aang (Gordon Cormier) is the “Avatar”, the only one capable of bending all the elements, and is destined to bring peace to the world from the Fire Nation.

    With his new companions Katara (Kiawentiio Tarbell) and Sokka (Ian Ousley), Aang sets out to master the elements while being pursued by the exiled Fire Nation prince Zuko (Daniel Dae Kim), who seeks to regain his honor by capturing the Avatar.

    The show’s stars unveiled an exciting first look at their faithfully realized characters, which you can see below.

    ‘One Piece’ anime adaptation

    TUDUM 2023: A Global Fan Event.
    TUDUM 2023: A Global Fan Event. Photo: Vans Bumbeers / Netflix © 2023.

    Also on the anime adaptation front is the live-action take on the best-selling title of all time — ‘One Piece’, written and illustrated by Eiichiro Oda.

    The story follows the adventures of Monkey D. Luffy (Iñaki Godoy) and his crew, the Straw Hat Pirates, where he explores the Grand Line in search of the mythical treasure known as the “One Piece” in order to become the next King of the Pirates.

    Mackenyu, Emily Rudd, Jacob Romero Gibson and Taz Skylar make up the rest of his crew for the show, which is being brought to life this time by showrunners Steven Maeda and Matt Owens.

    ‘One Piece’ will kick off on Netflix on 31 August, and you can find the teaser below…

    Zack Snyder offers a look behind the scenes of ‘Rebel Moon’

    The Netflix's Tudum: A Global Fan Event 2023 at Fundação Bienal de São Paulo on June 17, 2023 in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
    The Netflix’s Tudum: A Global Fan Event 2023 at Fundação Bienal de São Paulo on June 17, 2023 in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Photo by Alexandre Schneider/Getty Images for NETFLIX.

    Having brought zombies to Netflix’s screens with ‘Army of the Dead’ and prequel ‘Army of Thieves’, Zack Snyder has set his sights on sci-fi.

    ‘Rebel Moon’ focuses on the agricultural moon of Veldt, part of a sprawling galaxy of planets overseen by the ferocious, all-powerful Imperium which oversees the other planets from its home base of Mother World.

    When Imperium forces expand out to Veldt’s local area, they target the moon as a potentially rich source of food and new recruits. But the natives, none too happy that their already struggling existence is being threatened, turns to a newcomer, Kora (Sofia Boutella) for help.

    The isolated woman, who has her own past with the Imperium, knows that it would be foolish to try and negotiate a better deal with the powerful government, so she rounds up some fighters who could be of use against the might of the enemy. But keeping alliances together won’t be quite so easy…

    Snyder’s big attempt to launch a franchise on the scale of ‘Star Wars’, has already put out some imagery and the director, alongside producer/wife Deborah Snyder and star Sofia Boutella, brought some behind-the-scenes footage.

    Linda Hamilton joins ‘Stranger Things’ Season 5

    TUDUM 2023: A Global Fan Event.
    TUDUM 2023: A Global Fan Event. Photo: Vans Bumbeers / Netflix © 2023.

    ‘Stranger Things’ is no stranger –– pun intended –– to 1980s movie and TV icons and it is adding at least one more in the shape of ‘Terminator’ veteran Linda Hamilton.

    She appeared via video to reveal her casting on the show but wouldn’t be drawn on who she might be playing. And given the writers’ strike, we’re going to have to wait longer than planned for the fifth and final season of the show to arrive.

    Gal Gadot previews ‘Heart of Stone’

    TUDUM 2023: A Global Fan Event.
    TUDUM 2023: A Global Fan Event. Photo: Vans Bumbeers / Netflix © 2023.

    It’s not just Chris Hemsworth that can bring the action goods. Gal Gadot has plenty of that sphere under her belt –– she has an iconic superhero character too and has appeared in the likes of ‘Red Notice’ and the ‘Fast & Furious’ franchise.

    She’s back on Netflix with new action thriller ‘Heart of Stone’, which will see her playing Rachel Stone, an operative for a secretive organization known as The Charter, who step in when governments can’t handle tough situations. It’s a lonely life for the agents who serve as the knife’s edge of the operation. And things just get tougher when a hacker gets control of The Heart, a powerful tech system that helps the Charter with its missions. Compromised and alone, Stone will have to stop the new threat.

    Jamie Dornan, Sophie Okonedo, Matthias Schweighöfer, Archie Madekwe, Alia Bhatt and Jing Lusi are also in the cast, and the show lands on Netflix on August 11th.

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    There was, of course, a lot more to see, and you can see it at Netflix’s TUDUM site.

    Gal Gadot attends the Netflix's Tudum: A Global Fan Event 2023 at Fundação Bienal de São Paulo on June 17, 2023 in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
    Gal Gadot attends the Netflix’s Tudum: A Global Fan Event 2023 at Fundação Bienal de São Paulo on June 17, 2023 in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Photo by Alexandre Schneider/Getty Images for NETFLIX.

    Upcoming Netflix Movies: 

     

  • Idris Elba Appears in ‘Extraction 2’

    (Left) Chris Hemsworth as Tyler Rake in 'Extraction 2.' (Right) Idris Elba as John Luther in 'Luther: The Fallen Sun.'
    (Left) Chris Hemsworth as Tyler Rake in ‘Extraction 2.’ Photo: Jasin Boland/Netflix © 2021. (Right) Idris Elba as John Luther in ‘Luther: The Fallen Sun.’ Photo: John Wilson/Netflix © 2023.

    With action sequel ‘Extraction 2’ hitting Netflix next week, star/producer Chris Hemsworth is naturally ramping up promotion for the new movie. And that apparently includes letting loose one of the secrets that has heretofore not been released: Idris Elba, another Netflix veteran, is in the film!

     

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    What’s the story of ‘Extraction 2’?

    The original ‘Extraction’, just in case you’re unfamiliar, was the 2020 Netflix action thriller directed by Sam Hargrave and written by Joe Russo (adapted from the Russo Brothers’ multi-authored graphic novel ‘Ciudad’).

    Hemsworth plays the gloriously named Tyler Rake (fun to say, as Elba points out in the clip above): a mercenary who takes on military assignments in the most punishing, ‘John Wick’ manner possible. First time out he was rescuing the son of a crime lord.

    In the sequel, the mission Rake chooses to accept is the unofficial release of a Georgian gangster’s family from prison.

    Chris Hemsworth as Tyler Rake in 'Extraction 2.'
    Chris Hemsworth as Tyler Rake in ‘Extraction 2.’ Photo: Jasin Boland/Netflix © 2023.

    Related Article: Chris Hemsworth Talks ‘Thor: Love and Thunder’

    It’s somewhat of a surprise to see him up and about again, since ‘Extraction’ ended with Rake seemingly on the verge of death after that first mission. But then, we’re not sure people would really watch a movie where Hemsworth just has a quiet beer while lounging on a comfy sofa watching a gardening show (though some of his fanbase would watch him do anything, let’s be honest).

    Elba’s character is mostly a mystery –– he’s not named in the clip, but it appears he’s the one who gives Rake the latest mission. And Netflix’s TUDUM blog offers up that he’s known as the Man In The Suit. And what a nice suit it is, too.

    This also marks something of a ‘Thor’ reunion for the two actors since Elba has appeared as Heimdall in all the Marvel movies focused on Hemsworth’s Norse warrior (and even death in ‘Infinity War’ didn’t stop him popping up again).

    Chris Hemsworth as Tyler Rake in 'Extraction 2.'
    Chris Hemsworth as Tyler Rake in ‘Extraction 2.’ Photo: Jasin Boland/Netflix © 2023.

    What can we expect from ‘Extraction 2’?

    In a word: action. Lots of action. Crazy action, with Hemsworth and Hargrave looking to not so much push the envelope as tear it into pieces and light it on fire.

    And talking of flames, one extreme sequence in the sequel will see Rake fighting people while literally on fire.

    “For me, the image of Chris Hemsworth beating the shit out of a bunch of prisoners, while on fire, in the snow was something that I couldn’t pass up,” Hargrave told Empire Magazine. “And hats off to Chris. It wasn’t CG fire. And he had to do it over and over. I don’t know a lot of people, let alone Hollywood A-listers, who are gonna let you light them on fire while on camera.”

    Sounds lit to us.

    Meanwhile, Netflix is really leaning into the promotion of Hemsworth’s latest collaboration, putting out a fun video that sees him meeting the company’s “Chief Action Officer” –– one Arnold Schwarzenegger –– who has some… thoughts… about ‘Extraction 2’s potential dialogue.

    ‘Extraction 2’ will be on Netflix on 16th June.

    Chris Hemsworth as Tyler Rake in 'Extraction 2.'
    Chris Hemsworth as Tyler Rake in ‘Extraction 2.’ © 2023 Netflix, Inc.

    Other Movies Similar to ‘Extraction 2′:

    Buy Tickets: ‘Extraction 2’ Movie Showtimes

    Buy Chris Hemsworth Movies On Amazon

    ‘Extraction 2’ is produced by AGBO, and Filmhaus Films, and is scheduled for release on Netflix June 15th.

  • TV Review: ‘FUBAR’

    Arnold Schwarzenegger as Luke Brunner in 'Fubar.'
    Arnold Schwarzenegger as Luke Brunner in ‘Fubar.’ Photo: Christos Kalohoridis/Netflix © 2023.

    A core concept about a spy whose family is drawn into his work sounds a lot like James Cameron’s 1994 action-comedy thriller ‘True Lies’, which starred Arnold Schwarzenegger and Jamie Lee Curtis.

    And indeed, such a show exists –– it’s even called ‘True Lies’ and has the same plotline albeit with some tweaks –– but unfortunately that series, which had its first season on CBS, failed to ignite interest with audiences and has been cancelled.

    Premiering its entire first season on Netflix, ‘FUBAR’ is an example of how to do that story with an even lighter touch and while it may not have the title, it does have a not-so-secret weapon: the return of Arnold Schwarzenegger to the blend of laughs and set-pieces that made ‘True Lies’ so entertaining.

    Monica Barbaro as Emma Brunner, Arnold Schwarzenegger as Luke Brunner in 'Fubar.'
    (L to R) Monica Barbaro as Emma Brunner, Arnold Schwarzenegger as Luke Brunner in ‘Fubar.’ Photo: Christos Kalohoridis/Netflix © 2023.

    What happens in ‘FUBAR’?

    The series follows Schwarzenegger’s Luke Brunner, a CIA operative with a knack for inventively taking down bad guys (essentially an Arnie character from his 1980s heyday) and a venerable reputation at the agency.

    But Luke, long since realizing the toll his job and its need for total secrecy had on his family –– he’s been divorced from wife Tally (Fabiana Udenio) for nearly 20 years –– is ready to retire. He plans to win his wife back and properly reconnect with his grown children, especially Emma (Monica Barbaro).

    Before he can really call it quits, though, he’s informed that Boro (Gabriel Luna), the son of a terrorist Luke dispatched years ago while working undercover, has resurfaced and is aiming to relaunch his father’s dangerous organization with even more vehemence. So, our hero must go back into the field… Whereupon he discovers that Emma is already there, and that she’s been a CIA operative herself for the last few years. The father-daughter bonding he’d hoped to achieve now takes on a much more elevated, more dangerous nature…

    Created and run by Nick Santora (who previously worked on the likes of ‘Scorpion’ and ‘Reacher’), ‘FUBAR’ is a Skydance Television project.

    Fortune Feimster as Roo Russell, Travis Van Winkle as Aldon Reece in 'Fubar.'
    (L to R) Fortune Feimster as Roo Russell, Travis Van Winkle as Aldon Reece in ‘Fubar.’ Photo: Christos Kalohoridis/Netflix © 2023.

    Who else appears in ‘FUBAR’?

    This show also features Fortune Feimster, Barbara Eve Harris, Travis Van Winkle, Aparna Brielle, Jay Baruchel, Milan Carter and Scott Thompson.

    Is ‘FUBAR’ worth your time?

    If you’ve been missing the sort of action charisma that Schwarzenegger brings to screens, then this should help mitigate those withdrawal symptoms. The actor and former bodybuilder has had a rough go of it with recent cinematic choices (‘Terminator: Dark Fate’ seemingly putting the final nail in the coffin of his work with that franchise, and others including ‘Iron Mask’ and ‘Killing Gunther’ hardly burnishing his career or box office with glory).

    With ‘FUBAR’, he’s on much more solid territory.

    Schwarzenegger’s on good form as Luke, his usual bravado on display but balanced with a decent sprinkling of vulnerability. While this is a man who absolutely knows he’s one of the best in the business, he’s still prone to making mistakes when it comes to those he loves.

    Fortune Feimster as Roo Russell, Milan Carter as Barry Putt, Aparna Brielle as Tina Mukerji, Travis Van Winkle as Aldon Reece, and Arnold Schwarzenegger as Luke Brunner in 'Fubar.'
    (L to R) Fortune Feimster as Roo Russell, Milan Carter as Barry Putt, Aparna Brielle as Tina Mukerji, Travis Van Winkle as Aldon Reece, and Arnold Schwarzenegger as Luke Brunner in ‘Fubar.’ Photo: Christos Kalohoridis/Netflix © 2023.

    Related Article: Arnold Schwarzenegger Talks Candidly About the Future of Movies Such as ‘Triplets’ and ‘The Terminator’ Franchise

    Santora and his team has smartly built the ensemble around their leading man so as to take some of the comedy load off him. Milan Carter in particular is well developed as Barry, Luke’s CIA tech guy and “man in the chair” who also happens to be the only person who also knows his family (the two run a gym supply company as their cover story).

    And it’s far from a two-man operation, Luke and Barry surrounded by a team that has both spy capabilities and winning comic personas –– Feimster and Van Winkle give good banter as Roo and Aldo, the duo’s usual backup in the field. As the story develops, all of the cast are given solid running jokes or moments to show what they can do, and the characters feel the benefit of the show’s running time to become more than just throwaway sidekicks.

    Even smaller roles, such as Scott Thompson as the CIA psychiatrist hired to help Luke and Emma figure out their fractured relationship, work well, Thompson at one point breaking out puppets of the pair to aid their communication.

    Barbaro, meanwhile, has to carry more of the dramatic weight and does so with skill and finesse. Though you might not quite always buy her as Arnie’s daughter, she’s more than up to the task of sparring with him and can also hold her own when it comes to the action sequences. At home, meanwhile, she has some funny interactions with her nervy boyfriend, played by Baruchel.

    Monica Barbaro as Emma Brunner, and Arnold Schwarzenegger as Luke Brunner in 'Fubar.'
    (L to R) Monica Barbaro as Emma Brunner, and Arnold Schwarzenegger as Luke Brunner in ‘Fubar.’ Photo: Christos Kalohoridis/Netflix © 2023.

    Arnie’s limits

    We all know, of course, that Schwarzenegger, for all that he brings to screens, is not the world’s greatest actor. And ‘FUBAR’ certainly stretches that idea in places. He can deliver some of the comedy and a fair portion of the drama, but he’s still more comfortable when things are blowing up or he’s being imposing.

    The show also takes a while to truly hit its stride –– though it kicks off with a fun action sequence, it doesn’t quite manage to hide the early exposition dump to introduce Luke’s situation and various family connections. And there are moments where you really feel like you’re watching a pilot episode for a show.

    Plus, even with the sort of generous budget afforded by Netflix, the stunt sequences will never quite challenge the levels routinely on display in Schwarzenegger’s glory days. And one or two subplots, such as rival gym supply company owners complaining about Luke’s success when he rarely seems to be in the office have the whiff of something quickly whipped up to give Tally more to do when she starts working for him (still unaware of his double life).

    Still, stick with it and the series soon finds the right blend of espionage set up and goofy comedy. It’s the most fun Arnie has had on screen in years and that proves to be infectious.

    ‘FUBAR’ receives 6.5 out of 10 stars.

    Arnold Schwarzenegger as Luke Brunner in 'Fubar.'
    Arnold Schwarzenegger as Luke Brunner in ‘Fubar.’ Photo: Christos Kalohoridis/Netflix © 2023.

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  • Arnold Schwarzenegger Talks His Future Projects

    Arnold Schwarzenegger as Luke Brunner in 'Fubar.'
    Arnold Schwarzenegger as Luke Brunner in ‘Fubar.’ Photo: Christos Kalohoridis/Netflix © 2023.

    Arnold Schwarzenegger is not a man to mince words. If he wants to say something, he’ll say it. In his career, he’s been a successful bodybuilder, an action legend (even if he’s not necessarily known for Oscar-caliber acting) and a politician.

    These days, he’s also known as an online activist, looking to spread positivity and workout tips on social media and beyond. He also hasn’t completely given up on acting, with new Netflix series ‘FUBAR’ due to start streaming on May 25th.

    In the course of promoting that show, Schwarzenegger has opened up for a wide-ranging interview in The Hollywood Reporter, touching on his successes and failures, both personally and professionally.

    The interview includes the former governor of California talking up the progress of future movie projects, including two of his most famous franchises, the ‘Terminator’ and ‘Conan’, plus offering a disappointing update on the ‘Twins’ sequel, ‘Triplets’.

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    ‘The Legend of Conan’

    The ‘Conan’ movie series, originally adapted by John Milius from Robert E. Howard’s fantasy warrior, has been in limbo –– at least in terms of projects featuring Arnie –– despite reboots with other actors such as Jason Momoa. And Schwarzenegger knows why.

    Here’s what he says of the “pending”, sequel ‘The Legend of Conan’:

    “It’s been pending for the last 10 years. (Fredrik) Malmberg owns the rights. He comes to me and says, ‘Oh, I have a deal with Netflix,’ and when we ask Netflix, they don’t know anything about it. It’s one of those crazy things. I hope he figures it out. I think you do it like ‘Unforgiven’, where you play the age. There’s a great script out there that John Milius wrote, and others have written one. The story is there. There are directors who want to do it. But he has the rights, and until he sells the rights for one or two movies, or for the franchise, there’s nothing you can do about it.”

    Arnold Schwarzenegger as the Terminator in 'Terminator 2: Judgment Day.'
    Arnold Schwarzenegger as the Terminator in ‘Terminator 2: Judgment Day.’

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    ‘The Terminator’ Franchise

    When it came to one of his most famous franchises –– the one he’s long acknowledged truly launched him as an action icon –– he’s even more forthright. Essentially, the ‘Terminator’ movies are going to move on without him.

    Here’s what Schwarzenegger had to say:

    “The franchise is not done. I’m done. I got the message loud and clear that the world wants to move on with a different theme when it comes to ‘The Terminator’. Someone has to come up with a great idea. ‘The Terminator’ was largely responsible for my success, so I always would look at it very fondly. The first three movies were great. Number four (‘Salvation’) I was not in because I was governor. Then five (‘Genisys’) and six (‘Dark Fate’) didn’t close the deal as far as I’m concerned. We knew that ahead of time because they were just not well written.”

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    ‘Twins’ sequel ‘Triplets’

    And finally, there’s ‘Triplets’, the sequel to the 1988 Ivan Reitman comedy ‘Twins’ which saw Schwarzenegger playing unlikely brothers with Danny DeVito. The new movie had finally been gathering pace in recent years, with first Eddie Murphy and then Tracy Morgan agreeing to play the third unexpected sibling. But according to the actor, it’s on permanent hold following Reitman’s death, mostly because of the director’s son Jason, a filmmaker in his own right. And Arnie’s not pleased.

    Here’s his comment:

    “Jason Reitman f****d it up! Jason Reitman literally stopped the project when his father died. His father wanted to do it really badly. I wanted to do it really badly. Danny DeVito wanted to do it really badly. We had the financing. When his father passed away, Jason says, ‘I never liked the idea’ and put a hold on it. I’m developing another movie with Danny; he’s so much fun to work with and so talented.”

    For more from Schwarzenegger, head to The Hollywood Reporter’s site.

    Arnold Schwarzenegger as Luke Brunner in 'Fubar.'
    Arnold Schwarzenegger as Luke Brunner in ‘Fubar.’ Photo: Christos Kalohoridis/Netflix © 2023.

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  • Arnold Schwarzenegger Starring in ‘Breakout’

    Arnold Schwarzenegger as Sheriff Ray Owens in 'The Last Stand.'
    Arnold Schwarzenegger as Sheriff Ray Owens in ‘The Last Stand.’

    Arnold Schwarzenegger seems to be spending less time on cinema screens these days, his last major release happening in 2019 (though since that was ‘Terminator: Dark Fate’, we can imagine him wanting to take a break). But he’s making moves to snatch a starring role again, agreeing to lead new action thriller ‘Breakout’.

    Scott Waugh, who has made movies including ‘Act of Valor’, ‘Need for Speed’ and the upcoming ‘The Expendables 4’ (which seemingly features almost every action icon bar Schwarzenegger), is on to call the shots for the new film.

    Schwarzenegger here will play Terry Reynolds. When his stepson, Daniel, is framed and sentenced to 25 years in a foreign country, Reynolds recruits some old friends to help makes a daring jailbreak to save him, hoping to overcome an overzealous prison warden in a race against time to avoid capture and flee the country.

    It’s not like Schwarzenegger doesn’t have experience breaking out of prisons –– he did, after all, star in the first ‘Escape Plan’ alongside Sylvester Stallone, but this one promises to be a little less ridiculous.

    Arnold Schwarzenegger as Captain Benjamin "Ben" Richards in 'The Running Man.'
    Arnold Schwarzenegger as Captain Benjamin “Ben” Richards in ‘The Running Man.’

    Related Article: James Cameron Says he’s Considering Another ‘Terminator’ Reboot

    RZA history

    This is not the first time the movie has been in active development, as ‘The Call’s Richard D’Ovidio wrote the screenplay, in cahoots with his regular collaborator (and wife) Nicole D’Ovidio back in 2015.

    Then, rapper-turned-filmmaker RZA was attached to direct at a time when he was looking to make as many films as possible following ‘The Man with the Iron Fists’. But it has since lingered in limbo, not even getting as far as the casting stage. Back then, the setting was Bangladesh, though some elements appear to have changed in the story.

    This time, things appear to be going much more smoothly given the addition of Arnie and the fact that the shoot is due to kick off this year in Eastern Europe.

    But if that’s not enough Schwarzenegger in your life, he has a couple of other projects headed our way –– cinema-wise, he’s back as the president in action comedy ‘Kung Fury 2’, which doesn’t yet have a release date for the States.

    Before that, he’ll be on our TV screens in Netflix’s ‘FUBAR’, in which he plays Luke Brunner, who has kept the truth of his status as an ace CIA agent for decades. He’s anticipating retirement (and looking to win the affections of his divorced wife back), only to learn that his daughter Emma (‘Top Gun: Maverick’s Monica Barbaro) is also an agent and is now in danger undercover with a villain that Luke has dealt with in the past). Cue an awkward team-up that reveals other family secrets and results in lots of things exploding. Think ‘True Lies’ but with a slightly different family dynamic. That will be on screens on May 25th.

    Arnold Schwarzenegger as the Terminator in 'Terminator 2: Judgment Day.'
    Arnold Schwarzenegger as the Terminator in ‘Terminator 2: Judgment Day.’

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