Conan the Barbarian
"Conan the Barbarian" is a 1982 American fantasy-adventure film directed by John Milius and starring Arnold Schwarzenegger as the titular character. The film, based on Robert E. Howard's Conan the Barbarian stories, follows Conan's quest for revenge against the warlord who massacred his tribe, and it played a significant role in establishing Schwarzenegger as a Hollywood icon.
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Conan the Barbarian Pinball
The film "Conan the Barbarian" (1982) directed by John Milius, marked a significant milestone not just in the fantasy genre but also in the career of Arnold Schwarzenegger, the actor portraying the titular character. The film, rooted in Robert E. Howard's creation, presents a gritty, raw take on the sword and sorcery genre, delving into a narrative filled with revenge, barbaric battles, and a quest for justice. The meticulous attention to authenticity, evidenced by the elaborate set designs inspired by Dark Age cultures and Frank Frazetta's paintings, as well as Schwarzenegger's committed physical performance, including his authentic sword skills, rendered a unique visual and thematic texture to the film. This film's influence extended beyond its initial release, as it became a benchmark for many "warrior and sword" films to follow, with many considering it the best of the genre due to its uncompromising vision and visceral action sequences.
The cultural impact of "Conan the Barbarian" can't be overemphasized. It didn't just spawn a sequel, "Conan the Destroyer," and a 2011 reboot, but it also significantly contributed to the commercial and cult status of sword and sorcery films. The film's success catapulted Arnold Schwarzenegger into worldwide recognition, establishing him as a bona fide action star. The commercial success was not only reflected in the box office earnings but also in the home video market, where sales significantly increased the film's gross over the years. By 2007, the film's earnings from various channels had exceeded $300 million, highlighting the enduring appeal and commercial viability of the Conan saga.
Furthermore, a noteworthy legacy of "Conan the Barbarian" is its celebration through various retrospectives and discussions over the decades. For instance, a documentary titled "Conan the Barbarian: The Official Story of the Film," directed by John Walsh, dives into the behind-the-scenes aspects of the film's creation, featuring interviews with the cast and crew. This not only shows the enduring interest in the film but also its significant place in the annals of fantasy-adventure cinema, providing a blueprint for how a cinematic adaptation of a beloved literary character can achieve both commercial success and cult status while leaving a lasting imprint on popular culture.
