🎯 Quick Overview
Trailer
- Director: Ivan Reitman
- Genre: Comedy, Romance, Sci-Fi
- Release year: 1994
- Runtime (length): 1h 49min
- IMDb rating: 4.7/10 (75K votes)
- Rotten Tomatoes: 35%
😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained
Arnold Schwarzenegger becomes pregnant to save his research funding, proving that sometimes the only way to get ahead in science is to carry a baby yourself.
🍿 Junior: Detailed Plot Synopsis
The Fertility Research
Dr. Alex Hesse (Arnold Schwarzenegger) and Dr. Larry Arbogast (Danny DeVito) are dedicated to developing ‘Expectane,’ a drug designed to reduce miscarriage risks. Their research faces funding cuts and FDA disapproval, leading them to a desperate decision. They decide to test the drug by briefly impregnating Alex, circumventing traditional human trials.

The Experiment Begins
Larry steals a frozen egg, labeled ‘Junior,’ from Dr. Diana Reddin’s (Emma Thompson) cryogenics project. He fertilizes it with Alex’s sperm and implants it into Alex. Initially, the plan is to terminate the pregnancy after the first trimester to gather data. However, Alex begins to experience pregnancy symptoms and develops a strong attachment to the unborn child.

Becoming a Parent
As Alex’s pregnancy progresses, he bonds with Diana and experiences the emotional and physical changes of pregnancy. The situation becomes more complicated when their university director, Noah Banes, becomes suspicious of their activities. Meanwhile, Larry’s ex-wife is also pregnant, adding to the comedic chaos.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained
🎬 Cast & Characters
- Dr. Alex Hesse (Arnold Schwarzenegger): An Austrian scientist who becomes the first man to get pregnant as part of a fertility research project.
- Dr. Larry Arbogast (Danny DeVito): A gynecologist and Alex’s colleague who convinces him to undergo the experimental pregnancy.
- Dr. Diana Reddin (Emma Thompson): A geneticist whose frozen egg is unknowingly used in Alex’s pregnancy, leading to a romantic relationship.
- Noah Banes (Frank Langella): The head of the University review board who tries to take credit for the experiment.
- Angela (Pamela Reed): Larry’s ex-wife, who is also pregnant and becomes intertwined in the unfolding events.
💬 Memorable Quotes
- Dr. Alex Hesse: “My body. *My* choice!” – Said when confronted about his pregnancy, echoing the abortion rights slogan.
- Dr. Alex Hesse: “Does my body disgust you?” – Alex asks Larry in all seriousness as his pregnancy progresses, highlighting the absurdity and his changing self-perception.
💰Box Office
- Budget: $60,000,000
- Domestic Gross: $36,763,355
- Worldwide Gross: $108,431,355
💥 Junior Reviews
Personal Review
Okay, so ‘Junior’ is definitely out there, but I have a soft spot for it. Seeing Arnold Schwarzenegger as a pregnant scientist is just so bizarre and funny. The scene where he’s in drag at the maternity retreat? Classic! It might not be a cinematic masterpiece, but it’s a fun, feel-good movie that always makes me laugh.
- Who would enjoy:
- “Fans of Arnold Schwarzenegger and Danny DeVito’s comedic collaborations.”
- “Viewers who enjoy unconventional comedies with a science-fiction twist.”
- “Those interested in films exploring themes of gender roles and family dynamics.”
- Content warnings ⚠:
- “Suggestive humor.”
- “Medical content related to pregnancy.”
- “Some scenes may be considered unrealistic or absurd by certain viewers.”
Professional Reviews
- Variety: “While the concept is inherently silly, ‘Junior’ fails to capitalize on its comedic potential. Schwarzenegger delivers a committed performance, but the film’s inconsistent tone and predictable plot prevent it from being truly memorable.
- The New York Times: “The premise is outlandish, but the execution is surprisingly flat. ‘Junior’ lacks the sharp wit and engaging characters needed to elevate it beyond a one-joke concept. Ultimately, it’s a missed opportunity for both comedy and social commentary.
- Los Angeles Times: “‘Junior’ relies heavily on the novelty of its premise, but struggles to find genuine humor beyond the initial shock value. The cast is talented, but the script is lacking in originality and depth, resulting in a film that feels underdeveloped and ultimately unsatisfying.
Audience Reactions
Arnold Schwarzenegger’s unexpected performance as a pregnant man was a highlight for many viewers.: The film’s humor and lighthearted tone were widely appreciated by audiences.
Emma Thompson’s comedic timing and quirky character added charm to the film.: The cast’s chemistry and comedic performances were generally praised.
Overall Consensus: While critics were divided, ‘Junior’ is a lighthearted comedy with a unique premise that amuses audiences.
Awards
- Golden Globe (Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture – Comedy Or Musical)- 1995
🛠️ Behind the Scenes
- “Ivan Reitman cited this movie as his favorite out of all the movies he made with Arnold Schwarzenegger, even though he admitted it wasn’t his best.”
- “The working title of the film during its early development was ‘Oh, Baby’.”
- “The movie’s concept was considered too ‘out there’ initially, leading to hesitation about its potential appeal to a mainstream audience.”
🖥️ How to Watch Junior?
Currently, “Junior” is available for purchase or rent on various digital platforms, including Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Vudu. Check these services for the most up-to-date availability and pricing. You may also find it as part of subscription packages offered by these or other streaming services.

🎥 Similar Movies
If you enjoyed Junior, you might like these similar films:
- Twins (1988): Another comedy starring Arnold Schwarzenegger and Danny DeVito, directed by Ivan Reitman, exploring an unconventional familial relationship.
- Mr. Mom (1983): A comedic exploration of gender roles when a man takes on the responsibilities of a stay-at-home parent.
- Kindergarten Cop (1990): Another comedy with Arnold Schwarzenegger in a role that contrasts with his action persona, directed by Ivan Reitman.
🛒 Junior Related Products
- Arnold Schwarzenegger: The Complete Box Set (DVD): Own the entire collection of Arnold Schwarzenegger’s greatest hits, including Junior. Experience the action, comedy, and unforgettable performances of this legendary actor.
- Danny DeVito: Comedy Collection (DVD): Watch the comedy movies of Danny DeVito, which includes Junior. Laugh at his humour and enjoy the laughs.
- Schwarzenegger Movie Poster – Junior: Own a high-quality reproduction of the original movie poster. Show off your love for this unconventional comedy with this unique piece of memorabilia.
- Pregnant Arnold Action Figure: This limited-edition action figure features Arnold Schwarzenegger as Dr. Alex Hesse in his pregnant state. It’s a humorous and unique addition to any action figure collection.
🎧 Soundtrack
Junior features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:
- “I’ve Got You Under My Skin” – performed by Frank Sinatra and Bono
- “Expectane” – performed by James Newton Howard
You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.
🤨 FAQ
You can rent or buy “Junior” on platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Vudu. Availability may vary by region.
Reception is mixed; some find the premise funny and the performances charming, while others find it bizarre and the humor lacking. It’s best enjoyed if you appreciate Arnold Schwarzenegger playing against type in a comedic role.
The main actors in “Junior” are Arnold Schwarzenegger, Danny DeVito, and Emma Thompson. Frank Langella and Pamela Reed also play significant roles.
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