Conan the Barbarian (1982)

Conan the Barbarian (1982) is a grim, mythic sword-and-sorcery epic about a boy stolen from his village by the fanatical Thulsa Doom and raised as a slave and fighter, who grows into a towering warrior (Arnold Schwarzenegger) bent on revenge. Set against a rugged, primitive landscape, Conan’s quest takes him from slave pits and gladiatorial arenas to taverns, ruined temples and the snake‑worshipping cult led by the charismatic and sinister Doom (James Earl Jones). Along the way he is joined by a wily archer, a fierce companion/lover, and a mysterious wizard as they pursue a rescue and a final reckoning. Watching the film you’ll experience a slow-building, atmospheric tone rather than nonstop action—long, operatic sequences punctuated by brutal, well-staged combat and visceral one-on-one fights. The movie emphasizes mythic imagery, terse, often philosophical lines about fate and “the riddle of steel,” and a sweeping, memorable score that heightens the film’s heroic and tragic moments. Visually it favors stark, rugged locations, muscular performances, practical effects and stylized violence typical of early‑80s fantasy cinema. Expect a film that’s equal parts adventure and mood-piece: compelling villainy, raw physicality, and an abiding sense of destiny driving a simple but satisfying revenge story. Be prepared for mature themes and graphic violence; fans of classic sword‑and‑sorcery and influential genre filmmaking will find much to enjoy.

Actors: Arnold Schwarzenegger, James Earl Jones, Max von Sydow

Director: John Milius

Runtime: 129 min

Genres: Action, Adventure, Fantasy

6.6 /10 43 /100 6.9 /10 5.9 /10