All The Right Movies True Lies (1994) | Ep. 127
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Jan 16, 2026 The discussion kicks off with James Cameron's bold vision for a high-stakes comedy-action film. Highlights include the stunning opening sequence inspired by Bond films and Tom Arnold's controversial casting. The hosts dive into thrilling stunts, Arnold’s surprising dynamism, and Jamie Lee Curtis’ memorable striptease. Anecdotes reveal Cameron's ambitious directing style, the ambitious budget escalation, and the iconic Harrier jet scene. They also touch on serious topics of on-set misconduct and the film's lasting influence on the action genre.
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On-Set Injuries During The Bathroom Fight
- During the bathroom fight, Cameron demonstrated ripping a dryer and injured his hand, then Arnold mimicked it and similarly hurt himself.
- Cameron jokingly called Arnold the 'village idiot' after that accident on set.
Set Pieces For Their Own Sake
- Many of True Lies' showstopping set pieces (horse/motorbike chase, roof ramp) exist for pure spectacle rather than plot necessity.
- Cameron often built sequences because he could, not because the story required them, creating thrilling but narratively thin moments.
Near-Disaster On The Roof Stunt
- During the roof-horse stunt a camera arm dropped under the horse's nose and sent it spinning with Arnold on top.
- Arnold slid off immediately and a stuntman grabbed him, avoiding a potentially fatal fall.