In the pilot episode of “FUBAR,” Arnold Schwarzenegger’s CIA agent persona is dubbed “the quickest 65-year-old Caucasian male on Earth” by his superior.
However, at 75 in reality, Schwarzenegger stars in “FUBAR,” his inaugural venture into television series. The Netflix (NFLX.O) show is an eight-episode fusion of action-packed adventure and humour, set to debut on Thursday.
“Back in the ’80s and ’90s, when I was ascending in my career post ‘Conan the Barbarian’ and ‘Terminator,’ such an opportunity was non-existent,” Schwarzenegger shared with Reuters.
Schwarzenegger assumes the role of Luke Brunner, a CIA operative nearing retirement tasked with rescuing another agent from a perilous mission. Surprisingly, the agent is none other than Luke’s daughter Emma, leading to thrilling global escapades to thwart Boro, a villainous character in search of weapons of mass destruction.
“He still treats me like a child,” complains Emma, portrayed by Monica Barbaro. The character frequently locks horns with her father, mirroring many of his attributes in her expressive dialogue.
Schwarzenegger comments, “The disorder is what crafts numerous amusing scenarios.”
“Some moments are high-stakes, a matter of life and death, whereas others are uproarious, and you find yourself thinking, ‘This is genuinely humorous,'” he further elaborated.
Barbaro describes their relationship as “complex,” Emma struggles to carve an identity separate from her father, only to realize, “the more we resist becoming like our parents, the more we inadvertently end up emulating them.”
Providing a break from the intense operations and familial discord, a motley ensemble of CIA coworkers offer comic interludes, playfully teasing Emma’s “daddy issues,” Luke’s linguistic mishaps, and his ambition to reconcile with his ex-wife.
Fortune Feimster, who portrays a character named Roo, injects hilarity into the CIA briefings with her unique brand of absurdity.
Embodying her partner Aldon, Travis Van Winkle relishes the contrast between “the endeavour to prevent global annihilation and these breezy dialogues.”
Milan Carter stars as Barry, a geeky analyst who doubles as Luke’s handler and quasi-family member, withholding information about Emma’s occupation from Luke.
“I may be intimidated by Arnold on a regular day, but when I’m in character as Barry, it’s open season, and I can hold him to account,” Carter shares. “It’s an absolute joy.”
The younger members of the cast, raised on a diet of Schwarzenegger classics like the “Terminator” series or “Kindergarten Cop,” admire the renowned actor and erstwhile bodybuilder for his commitment, collaboration, inspiration and playful demeanour.
“His routine is regimented. After reviewing all his lines, he retires at midnight and wakes up at 6 daily,” disclosed Gabriel Luna, who brings the main antagonist Boro to life, adding, “He consistently advocates: ‘Sleep eight hours, they say. I say sleep faster.”
The cast and crew eagerly anticipate audience reactions as “FUBAR” gears up for its Netflix debut. From Schwarzenegger’s seasoned performance to the dynamic ensemble cast, this series promises to deliver an engaging mix of high-octane action and unexpected comedy. With its unique blend of veteran and rising stars, the show offers a fresh take on the classic spy genre, bound to keep viewers hooked from start to finish.