Movies

Arnold’s Conan Still Reigns Supreme After 43 Years

BBG News

As a cinephile delving into the realm of cinematic history, I must say that “Conan the Barbarian” is a timeless saga that has graced our screens since the ’80s. This character has been reimagined on television and film an impressive 7 times, leaving fans torn between the raw ferocity of Jason Momoa’s portrayal in the 2011 series reboot and the original muscle-bound performance by Arnold Schwarzenegger. Regardless of personal preference, one thing remains undeniable: the franchise’s unapologetically brutal action scenes have kept audiences spellbound for generations.

Nonetheless, no modern take or remake has managed to surpass the graphic violence of John Milius’ 1982 movie “Conan the Barbarian”. It boasts a plethora of action, swordplay, and – crucially – Arnold Schwarzenegger, in his groundbreaking performance as Conan, going toe-to-toe with the ominous Thulsa Doom. Despite challenges faced by the franchise, such as the underwhelming announcement about Robert Rodriguez’s “Conan the Barbarian” series on Netflix, the 1982 film remains unmatched and continues to shine even after 43 years.

Why Arnold Schwarzenegger’s 1982 Conan The Barbarian Movie Is Still The Best

Arnold’s Performance Is Unbeatable As Conan

John Milius’ “Conan the Barbarian” movie took Robert E. Howard’s pulp stories and turned them into legendary tales in cinema. In this film, a young Conan is taken captive and enslaved following the destruction of his village by the wicked Thulsa Doom (portrayed by the late James Earl Jones). During his confinement, he relentlessly trains as a gladiator, ultimately gaining his freedom and embarking on a legendary journey of vengeance against the terrifying cult leader.

The 1982 movie “Conan the Barbarian” stands out from its sequels due to Arnold Schwarzenegger’s chilling portrayal of Conan. While his physical prowess is impressive, it’s his stoicism that truly shines. The film’s plot revolves around Conan’s unwavering determination, making him a silent, relentless force propelled by destiny. Subsequent adaptations have attempted to replicate the original’s magic, but they haven’t been able to recreate the essential ingredient: the intense, vengeful spirit that guides Conan towards his fate with Doom.

Schwarzenegger’s Biggest Competition Is 2023’s Little-Known Conan Movie

She Is Conann Is The Best Conan Movie This Century

As a cinephile, I must admit that only a handful of film adaptations have dared to challenge the iconic 1982 original like “She Is Conann.” Directed by Bertrand Mandico, this French masterpiece offers a refreshing feminist take on the Robert E. Howard story, where the titular character, “Conann,” is portrayed by four talented actresses across diverse timelines.

The 2023 festival darling triumphs in resurrecting the essence of the Conan mythos largely due to its psychedelic exploration, which transcends conventional boundaries of setting, space, and time. This audacious approach allows for a captivating exploration of Conan in uncharted territories.

I wholeheartedly agree that “She is Conann” offers a fresh perspective on where the Conan the Barbarian franchise might head next. It’s not just about pushing boundaries or feminism, but more about exploring new, innovative directions. One intriguing aspect of “She is Conann” is its exploration of Conan in various time periods – think of the potential stories that could unfold if Conan were placed in our contemporary world. Frankly, we’ve seen the Conan story many times before, even though Arnold Schwarzenegger’s portrayal was iconic in the ’80s. It’s high time for a modern twist on this beloved series.

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2025-05-03 21:22

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