The Last Stand was a film that marked Arnold Schwarzenegger‘s return to the big screen after being away for ten years. This action-packed movie showcased stunts and explosions, but one scene stood out—the exhilarating car chase involving a Corvette ZR1 and a Camaro ZL1. The stunt was so intense that it left viewers questioning whether the Corvette was real or created using CGI. Tthe premise of the movie was still very fictitious and ‘fake.’ However, the behind-the-scenes process of bringing the Corvette car scene to life, along with the challenges encountered, may surprise you.

The Corvette ZR1 is renowned as one of the world’s most powerful and expensive cars boasting a top speed of over 200 mph and carrying a price tag exceeding $100,000. Additionally, it is a rare vehicle with only around 4,000 units produced between 2009 and 2013. So, to cut costs, they employed a replica of the Corvette.

The filmmakers utilized a modified 1963 Corvette Grand Sport to resemble a ZR1 in the movie. They acquired two replicas, one for upshots and the other for stunts. However, the replicas alone couldn’t accomplish the stunt. The filmmakers additionally required a ZR1 for certain high-speed shots and maneuvers. Fortunately, they managed to borrow a ZR1 from General Motors for a short period, but caution was crucial in handling it.

Filming the car chase scene spanned around two weeks and involved coordination and planning. The filmmakers employed both the replicas and the real ZR1 for shots, switching between them seamlessly. They also had to navigate challenges such as traffic, weather conditions, and safety concerns. The end result cemented the stunt. Although critics widely regarded it as a bluff and false representation of car facts.

The beloved hunk’s roles have gone on to solidify his position as one of, if not the greatest, action heroes of all time.

How Arnold Schwarzenegger became a legendary action icon

Schwarzenegger rose to prominence in 1982 with his role as the protagonist in Conan the Barbarian. This fantasy epic showcased his physicality and acting skills. The movie was a success at the box office and led to a sequel titled Conan the Destroyer in 1984. These movies highlighted his stature and strong looks that would fit him in action roles.

However, it was his role in The Terminator that truly launched him into superstardom. Released in 1984 and directed by James Cameron, this sci-fi thriller received both acclaim and commercial success, solidifying Schwarzenegger’s position as a dominant action hero of that era. Recently, the actor is back on showbiz delivering back-to-back hits and he is not stopping anytime soon. A truly legendary icon, he has a place in every action movie fan’s heart. 

What do you think of The Last Stand‘s car scene? And how has Arnold Schwarzenegger inspired you? Let us know in the comments below.