Review of Conan the Destroyer (1984) by Stuart K — 30 Jun 2009

After the success of the first Conan film, a sequel was inevitable. Producer Dino De Laurentiis decided it would be best if they made this one more commerically viable, so that more people could see it.

This meant taking out all the sex and violence that gave the first film it's impact. Oops. As a result, the sequel is a neutered cat, and ruining it's chances of becoming a Bond-like franchise.

This one has Conan (Arnie) being assigned on a quest by Queen Taramis (Sarah Douglas), to find Princess Jehnna (Olivia d'Abo), who is being held captive by Toth-Amon (Pat Roach!! :D), Conan sets out with fighter Zula (Grace Jones), wizard Akiro (Mako) and thief Malak (Tracey Walter).

It could have been such a good film, but John Milius who set the standard was replaced by old school veteran Richard Fleischer. The humour is increased more in this one, bad idea. It doesn't help that it has poor performances and dodgy production in places, (having said that, Jack Cardiff's cinematography is brilliant), Arnie is as good as he can be, but the film is left lacking, even the plot feels half baked.

It has it's moments, (the room of mirrors being a highlight), and Pat Roach is in it, everyone likes him!! :D.