The long-awaited documentary on Arnold Schwarzenegger’s life has finally arrived on Netflix. The three-part documentary is captivating viewers around the world as it offers a detailed picture of the extraordinary life of the bodybuilder, actor, and politician. However, a short segment from one episode gives a profound understanding of the adversities and challenges that he faced while growing up in Austria. One of the most startling revelations is his father’s struggle with PTSD after World War II and the impact it had on the Schwarzenegger family.

It is not a secret that Schwarzenegger had a troubled childhood, as his father did not support his passion for bodybuilding. However, in the documentary, Schwarzenegger opened up the same, and also about his father’s struggles. 

How war affected Austria, Schwarzenegger, and his father

Arnold Schwarzenegger candidly discussed the aftermath of World War II and its profound effects on Austria, his homeland. While the country eventually got its independence, the horrors of the war deeply affected its citizens. The Austrian Oak described how the struggles for freedom shattered the spirits of its people. “They went home so depressed. Austria was a country of broken men,” he explained in his documentary. 

He also explained how his father bore the heavy burden of the war experiences, which led to his struggles with depression and violent outbursts. “He was buried underneath buildings, rubble, for three days,” Arnold said about his father in the documentary. The Terminator revealed that his father, plagued by the horrors he witnessed during the war, would resort to physical punishment, often beating him and his siblings with a belt. 

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“I think there were times where my father really struggled,” he added. While he had a complex relationship with his father throughout his growing-up years, the legendary bodybuilder also revealed some valuable lessons. 

When Arnold Schwarzenegger was motivated by his father’s words

Schwarzenegger often found himself on the receiving end of his father’s strict discipline and expectations. However, this strictness also taught him some important lessons that shaped him as a person in the coming years. Such advice motivated him to compile a creative book titled, “Be Useful: Seven Tools for Life.”

The Terminator also reveals the inspiration behind the title of the book. He mentioned that it was from his father’s words. “‘Be Useful’ because this is what my father always said – Arnold, be useful, don’t just waste your time on yourself, “ he revealed. Overall, the documentary on Arnold Schwarzenegger’s life offers more than just a glimpse into the world of a Hollywood superstar. It is an inspirational narrative that encourages individuals to pursue their passions. Have you watched it yet?  

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