Arnold Schwarzenegger brought the legendary Conan the Barbarian to life on the silver screen twice. He starred in two films: Conan the Barbarian (1982) and Conan the Destroyer (1984). While further sequels and reboots have been attempted and even announced, Schwarzenegger’s portrayal remains iconic and defines the character for many. Let’s delve deeper into his portrayal and the legacy of these films.
Schwarzenegger’s Conan: More Than Just Muscle
Arnold Schwarzenegger’s transition from bodybuilding icon to Hollywood star was solidified with his role as Conan. While his physique was undeniably a crucial element in embodying the Cimmerian warrior, his performance also brought a surprising amount of depth and nuance to the character. He wasn’t simply a hulking brute; he was a man driven by vengeance and shaped by a brutal world.
From Page to Screen: A Difficult Adaptation
The journey of bringing Robert E. Howard’s Conan to the big screen was fraught with challenges. Howard’s stories were known for their violence, dark themes, and complex characters. The original Conan the Barbarian film faced numerous setbacks, including script revisions and budgetary concerns, but ultimately, it managed to capture the spirit of the source material, albeit with some significant departures.
The Impact of Basil Poledouris’s Score
One of the most enduring aspects of the Conan the Barbarian is Basil Poledouris’s iconic score. The powerful and evocative music perfectly complements the film’s visuals and themes, creating a truly immersive and unforgettable cinematic experience. It’s considered one of the greatest film scores of all time and played a significant role in establishing the film’s epic tone.
Beyond the Original: Conan the Destroyer and What Could Have Been
While Conan the Barbarian was a relatively faithful adaptation of Howard’s grim tales, Conan the Destroyer took a more lighthearted and family-friendly approach. This shift in tone alienated some fans of the original film, though it broadened the franchise’s appeal. However, Arnold only appeared in Conan the Barbarian and Conan the Destroyer, ending his run as the Cimmerian warrior.
The Canceled King Conan: Crown of Iron
For years, rumors circulated about a potential King Conan film, tentatively titled King Conan: Crown of Iron, which would see Schwarzenegger reprising his role as an aging Conan ruling as king of Aquilonia. Various scripts were written, and Schwarzenegger expressed interest in the project, but ultimately, it never came to fruition. Legal issues, creative differences, and Schwarzenegger’s political career all contributed to the film’s cancellation. This would have provided a compelling and mature closure to Schwarzenegger’s portrayal of Conan.
FAQs: Unveiling the Secrets of Conan
Here are some frequently asked questions about Arnold Schwarzenegger’s portrayal of Conan and the films themselves:
FAQ 1: Was Arnold Schwarzenegger the first choice to play Conan?
While Schwarzenegger was heavily considered early on due to his physique, other actors like Charles Bronson were also in the running. Ultimately, Schwarzenegger’s dedication to the role and his growing star power secured him the part.
FAQ 2: How did Arnold Schwarzenegger prepare for the role of Conan?
Schwarzenegger underwent rigorous sword-fighting training and equestrian lessons. He also studied the Conan comics and novels to understand the character’s motivations and personality. His years of bodybuilding provided the foundational physique required.
FAQ 3: What were the main differences between Conan the Barbarian and Conan the Destroyer?
The primary difference was the tone. Conan the Barbarian was a dark, violent, and revenge-driven epic, while Conan the Destroyer was a more lighthearted adventure with a greater emphasis on humor and fantasy elements. The ratings also differed, with the original being R-rated and the sequel being PG.
FAQ 4: Why was King Conan never made?
Several factors contributed to the cancellation of King Conan. Legal issues surrounding the Conan rights, Schwarzenegger’s political career as Governor of California, and creative disagreements over the script and direction all played a role.
FAQ 5: Which Conan film is considered the better of the two?
Generally, Conan the Barbarian is considered the superior film due to its darker tone, more compelling storyline, and Basil Poledouris’s iconic score. Conan the Destroyer is often criticized for its lighter tone and reliance on comedic elements.
FAQ 6: What impact did the Conan films have on Arnold Schwarzenegger’s career?
The Conan films were pivotal in launching Arnold Schwarzenegger into mainstream Hollywood stardom. They showcased his physical presence and acting abilities, solidifying him as a leading action star.
FAQ 7: Is Jason Momoa’s Conan movie considered part of the same film universe as Schwarzenegger’s?
No. Jason Momoa’s Conan the Barbarian (2011) is a reboot of the franchise and is not considered part of the same film universe as the Schwarzenegger films. It’s a completely separate interpretation of the character.
FAQ 8: Where were the Conan films primarily shot?
Conan the Barbarian was primarily filmed in Spain, with locations in Segovia, Cuenca, and Almería. Conan the Destroyer was filmed primarily in Mexico.
FAQ 9: How closely did Conan the Barbarian follow the original Robert E. Howard stories?
While the film drew inspiration from several Howard stories, it also took significant liberties with the source material. Certain characters and plot points were altered or omitted entirely. The film captured the spirit of Howard’s world, but it wasn’t a direct adaptation of any single story.
FAQ 10: What is the significance of the Atlantean Sword?
The Atlantean Sword is a powerful and iconic weapon in the Conan universe. In Conan the Barbarian, it’s forged by Conan’s father and stolen by Thulsa Doom’s followers. The sword serves as a symbol of Conan’s heritage and his quest for vengeance.
FAQ 11: Are there any plans for Arnold Schwarzenegger to return to the Conan franchise?
As of the current date, there are no confirmed plans for Arnold Schwarzenegger to reprise his role as Conan. While he has expressed interest in the past, legal and creative obstacles have consistently prevented a return. Future opportunities are always possible, however.
FAQ 12: What makes Arnold Schwarzenegger’s portrayal of Conan so memorable?
Schwarzenegger’s imposing physique, coupled with his ability to convey the character’s inner strength and stoicism, made his portrayal of Conan unforgettable. He embodied the essence of the barbarian warrior, bringing the character to life in a way that resonated with audiences and solidified his place in cinematic history. His performance transcended mere physical presence, offering a glimpse into the warrior’s hardened soul.