Arnold Schwarzenegger Fans Can Look Forward to February 10 on Netflix

Overview

The film Aftermath marks a significant shift from typical Schwarzenegger roles, emphasizing deep emotional themes and personal loss.
Based on the 2002 Überlingen mid-air collision in Germany, the movie reflects on a tragic real-life event.
While critics rated it poorly, many viewers have recognized Schwarzenegger’s thoughtful and poignant performance.

It has been a year and a half since Arnold Schwarzenegger last graced the screen in FUBAR, excluding his voice role in the anthology series Secret Level. However, Netflix is set to reintroduce fans to the iconic actor with the release of the 2017 film Aftermath in February.

Known predominantly as an action star who has battled extraterrestrials, saved humanity, and even defied time, Schwarzenegger explores a more vulnerable side in Aftermath. This film shifts the focus from explosive action sequences to a heartbreaking narrative about mourning and the struggle for closure. This is a stark departure from his traditional roles, offering a raw and emotional journey through grief and guilt.

A Different Kind of Schwarzenegger Film

Embracing a New Narrative

Imagine Schwarzenegger alone at an airport, gazing at a departure board with no information on his family’s arrival. This scene encapsulates the essence of Aftermath: a poignant portrayal of a man whose life has unraveled. The film challenges audiences’ expectations, stripping away the action elements commonly associated with the star and revealing a profound emotional experience.

In Aftermath, Schwarzenegger portrays Roman Melnyk, a construction worker whose family is tragically lost in a mid-air collision involving flight AX 112. Unlike the invincible characters he’s usually known for, here, he showcases a deeply vulnerable side. His silence speaks volumes, conveying a sense of loss that action-packed sequences rarely achieve. Schwarzenegger himself remarked on this transformative role during an interview with Fandango, sharing:

“In action movies, you have some control over the outcome. But in this case, everything is lost in an instant, and that’s a genuine drama with real struggles. Portraying that is appealing, as I aim to challenge myself with different roles.”

Inspired by Real Events

The 2002 Überlingen Collision

The narrative of Aftermath becomes even more haunting upon realizing it is based on actual events. The 2002 collision over Überlingen, Germany, resulted in the tragic loss of 71 lives, many of whom were children, following a critical error by air traffic controller Peter Nielsen. Rather than dramatizing the impact of the crash, Aftermath focuses on the aftermath—the emotional struggle that ensues. While it takes creative liberties with certain details, the fundamental emotional reality remains intact.

As Roman copes with his loss, he seeks nothing more than a simple apology from those responsible. Meanwhile, the air traffic controller grapples with overwhelming guilt over his role in the tragedy. Unlike typical plotlines involving vengeance, Roman’s pain festers silently as he watches the world around him move on. Those responsible begin to reconstruct their lives, while the airline offers monetary settlements—an inadequate response to his grief.

While Roman isn’t an assassin, the narrative reflects the unpredictability of grief and loss. When the two central characters eventually confront each other—Jacob “Jake” Bonanos, the air traffic controller—the scene resonates with raw emotion, embodying the tragedy of two shattered lives.

What’s Happening with Aftermath on February 10?

Streaming on Netflix

On February 10, Netflix will reintroduce Aftermath into its lineup, giving viewers access to a gripping story that challenges the conventions of traditional action films. While Schwarzenegger’s films often deliver adrenaline-pumping excitement, Aftermath offers a reflective journey that engages the heart and mind, leaving audiences contemplating long after watching.

Audience Reception of Aftermath

Mixed Reviews from Critics and Audiences

Despite Schwarzenegger’s star power, Aftermath performed poorly commercially, grossing only $674, 000 at the box office. This figure pales in comparison to his typical blockbuster hits, particularly in a competitive release period with films such as The Fate of the Furious and Kong: Skull Island.

While critics gave it a 41% on Rotten Tomatoes, audience reviews were even less favorable, with a rating of just 25%.Although Schwarzenegger’s performance received praise, the film’s slow pacing and its focused examination of grief from the perspective of two non-passengers led some to perceive it as lacking emotional depth. Nonetheless, for those who appreciate Schwarzenegger’s foray into more introspective storytelling, Aftermath stands as a noteworthy departure from his action-hero persona.

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