Review of Conan the Barbarian (1982) by Stuart K — 30 Jun 2009

This was where it all started, a potential franchise based on Robert E. Howard's mythical hero. It put Arnold Schwarzenegger on the road to superstardom, (it was his first lead role), it is camp, silly and very violent.

But, it's very enjoyable as well, it's time for a revival of old action-fantasy films like this!! Set in the Hyborian Age, it begins with a young Cimmerian boy called Conan, whose parents were killed by warlord Thulsa Doom (James Earl Jones).

Forced into slavery, and later as a man, trained as a Gladiator, whose skills are impressive. Conan finds himself being sent to King Osric of Ophir (Max von Sydow), who sends him on a mission to find his Princess daughter (Valérie Quennessen), who has been brainwashed by an evil cult, ran by Thulsa Doom.

Conan is set out with Subotai (Gerry Lopez) and Valeria (Sandahl Bergman) to save the Princess. It is very well made, and it is a perfect role for Arnie, who makes a fine warrior. John Milius got what could have been a great franchise off to a fine start, it reeks of the 1980's, and is proud of it.

It's a shame it all came crashing down after the sequel... :P.