Four Barbarian Movies to Satisfy Your Appetite for More ‘Conan’

The release of “Conan the Barbarian” has fueled many people’s appetite for more sword and sorcery films. They provide an escape from life’s everyday grind and take you to a mystical fantasy world far from the problems of this modern world. Let’s disconnect from reality for a moment and explore some other movies along the lines of “Conan the Barbarian.”

“Kull the Conqueror”

Obviously, the first one that comes to mind is “Kull the Conqueror.” Robert E. Howard created both Kull and Conan. As a matter of fact, this film was originally supposed to be the third “Conan” film. When Arnold Schwarzenegger refused to reprise his role, Kevin Sorbo (“Hercules”) jumped onboard after suggesting it be changed to a “Kull” movie. “Kull the Conqueror” takes the title hero on a quest to find the Breath of the god Valka, which can defeat the powers of evil that are trying to take over the mythical land of Valusia. The film also stars Tia Carrere.

“The Beastmaster”

Next up we have 1982’s “The Beastmaster,” which was loosely based on the science fiction book of the same name written by Andre Norton. This movie tells the story of a warrior with supernatural powers over animals. He uses his powers and brawn to exact revenge on the barbarians who killed his adopted father and their entire village. It starred Marc Singer (“V”) in the title role and Bond girl Tanya Roberts as his love interest. It was written and directed by Don Coscarelli (the “Phantasm” movies, “Bubba Ho-Tep”). “The Beastmaster” spawned two lackluster sequels that failed to please most fans of the first film.

“Red Sonja”

When talking about sword and sorcery films, you can’t help but mention the “so-bad-it’s good” big screen version of “Red Sonja.” This movie supposedly had it all for a red-blooded American male. First, it featured a redheaded half-naked female Amazonian warrior. Mix that with battles and a special appearance from Arnold Schwarzenegger and you should have a winner, right? It was a critical and box office disaster but still makes for a fun time if viewing with the right intentions. “Red Sonja” was played by Denmark model Brigitte Nielsen (“Rocky IV,” “Beverly Hills Cop II”). The movie was based on the Marvel Comics character that was created by Roy Thomas. Thomas was inspired by the character of Red Sonya of Rogatino, which first appeared in a “Conan” story written by Robert E. Howard.

“The Scorpion King”

Last, but certainly not least is “The Scorpion King.” This movie was based on one of the villains from “The Mummy Returns.” He was played by then pro-wrestler Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. Johnson plays the title character, who kidnaps his enemy’s powerful sorceress and awaits a final battle with the evil army in the desert. “The Scorpion King” was a big box office hit when it came out. It was directed by Chuck Russell (“The Mask,” “Eraser”) and also starred Michael Clarke Duncan (“The Green Mile”), Kelly Hu (“X2: X-Men United”), and Steve Brand (“Human Target”). “The Scorpion King” was followed up by a direct-to-DVD sequel that starred Michael Copon. He did a decent job of taking “The Rock’s” place as the Scorpion King.

There are many more sword and sorcery films out there. Some characters were unfortunately taken out of their elements and fantasy worlds (“Masters of the Universe”) and put in present times. That cheats the viewer of the full fantasy world aspect of these types of films and disqualifies them from this list of recommended films. The movies above are the ones that made the biggest impact on audiences over the years.

For more articles by Eric Shirey, check out:

Zombies Beware! Alice is Back for ‘Resident Evil: Retribution’
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Interview with ‘Final Destination 5′ Actor Miles Fisher


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