Arnold Schwarzenegger's Favorite Clint Eastwood Movie

Arnold Schwarzenegger was only 17 when Clint Eastwood did his breakthrough role as “the man with no name” in the ‘60s Western A Fistful of Dollars. Though young, Arnold was quite impressed with Clint’s delivery, as with many other viewers who became fans of the legendary actor ever since.

Arnold, who was fresh into his bodybuilding career in Austria, made an idol out of Clint, naming A Fistful of Dollars as one of his favorite films of all time. Others include E.T. The Extraterrestrial, The Godfather, and another Clint movie, Unforgiven.

Arnold Schwarzenegger’s favorite Clint Eastwood movie helped him with his own career

Arnold Schwarzenegger Loves Clint Eastwood's Western Movies — Arnold Schwarzenegger and Clint Eastwood/Instagram

Arnold has been vocal about his admiration for Clint, as he posted a tribute for the legend’s 93rd birthday last year, calling him a mentor, a friend, and an inspiration. The 77-year-old has taken a cue from Arnold at multiple points in his career, especially after serving as the Governor of California.

He once told The Hollywood Reporter that he is learning to adapt roles to his age, just like Clint, admitting that extreme stunts and shooting become impossible as time passes. Interestingly, Arnold and Clint have never worked together but maintain a cordial relationship in real life.

Another favorite of Arnold Schwarzenegger, starring Clint Eastwood

Clint has an evergreen place in Arnold’s heart, as his later movies are just as much a favorite as his old Westerns and earlier appearances. His 1992 Western Unforgiven is up there on Arnold’s list of favorite movies, and the duo began their friendship during it’s making.

Arnold considered Clint a genius for working as a producer and director in the film while also playing the character William Munny. Unforgiven was a success, snagging multiple awards, including four Oscars, with Best Picture and Best Director going to Clint. The two-hour movie, which has a 96% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, gave Gene Hackman a Best Supporting Actor win and Best Film Editing for editor Joel Cox.