Written by Lizette Renteria
Modified & Updated: 05 Mar 2024
Reviewed by Sherman Smith
Conan the Destroyer is a classic action-fantasy film released in 1984. Directed by Richard Fleischer and starring Arnold Schwarzenegger in the iconic role of Conan, the movie is a sequel to the 1982 film “Conan the Barbarian.” Filled with thrilling fight sequences, epic battles, and a rich fantasy world, the film has captivated audiences for decades.
In this article, we delve into the fascinating world of “Conan the Destroyer” and bring you 31 incredible facts about the movie. From behind-the-scenes trivia to interesting anecdotes about the cast and crew, this article will take you on a nostalgic journey through the making and legacy of this beloved film.
So, grab your sword and brace yourself for an adventure as we uncover the secrets and trivia behind “Conan the Destroyer” that even the most die-hard fans may not know!
Key Takeaways:
- Conan the Destroyer, a sequel to Conan the Barbarian, was a box office hit with epic battles, mythical creatures, and a diverse cast, leaving fans eager for more adventures.
- The movie, blending fantasy and adventure, expanded the Conan universe, featuring Arnold Schwarzenegger, memorable quotes, and a powerful score, shaping the fantasy genre and inspiring a loyal following.
Critical Reception
Conan the Destroyer was released in 1984 and received mixed reviews from critics.
Box Office Success
The movie was a box office success, grossing over $31 million worldwide.
Arnold Schwarzenegger
Arnold Schwarzenegger reprised his role as Conan the Barbarian in this sequel.
Influence of Robert E. Howard
The movie is based on the character Conan, created by Robert E. Howard in the 1930s.
Director of the Film
The film was directed by Richard Fleischer, known for his work on films like 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea.
Supporting Cast
The movie features a star-studded cast including Grace Jones, Wilt Chamberlain, and Mako.
PG Rating
Conan the Destroyer received a PG rating, making it a more family-friendly film compared to its predecessor.
Fantasy Adventure
The film blends elements of fantasy and adventure, taking Conan on a new quest filled with magic and mythical creatures.
Costume Design
The elaborate costumes in the movie were designed by Bob Ringwood, who later worked on films like Batman and Troy.
Epic Battle Scenes
Conan the Destroyer features epic battle scenes that showcase Schwarzenegger’s physical prowess.
Expanded Lore
The movie expands the lore of the Conan universe, introducing new characters and locations.
John Milius’ Involvement
John Milius, who directed the first Conan film, served as a co-writer and producer for Conan the Destroyer.
Memorable Quotes
The movie is known for its memorable quotes, including “What is best in life? To crush your enemies, see them driven before you, and to hear the lamentation of their women.”
Themes of Power and Redemption
The film explores themes of power and redemption, as Conan is tasked with protecting a young princess on her dangerous quest.
Epic Score
The film features a powerful and epic score composed by Basil Poledouris, adding to the overall grandeur of the movie.
Sequel to Conan the Barbarian
Conan the Destroyer is the sequel to the 1982 film Conan the Barbarian, continuing the adventures of the iconic warrior.
Dynamic Action Sequences
The movie is packed with dynamic action sequences, showcasing Conan’s skills in combat and survival.
Location Shooting
The film was primarily shot on location in Mexico, adding to the authenticity of the settings.
Cultural Impact
Conan the Destroyer has had a lasting cultural impact, inspiring a loyal following and numerous adaptations in other media.
Influence on Fantasy Genre
The movie played a significant role in shaping the fantasy genre in the 1980s and beyond, paving the way for future films and novels.
Mythical Creatures
Conan the Destroyer introduces various mythical creatures, including a giant serpent and a shape-shifting wizard.
Hero’s Journey
The film follows the classic hero’s journey, with Conan facing trials and overcoming obstacles on his quest.
Character Development
Conan’s character develops further in the sequel, showing glimpses of compassion and a sense of responsibility.
Evil Sorcery
The movie delves deeper into the world of evil sorcery, with Conan facing off against powerful sorcerers in his path.
Cultural References
Conan the Destroyer draws inspiration from various real-world cultures, adding depth to its fictional universe.
Special Effects
The film utilizes practical effects to bring its fantasy elements to life, creating a visually stunning experience.
Iconic Poster Art
The movie’s poster art, featuring Schwarzenegger as Conan, has become iconic and is recognized worldwide.
Merchandising Success
The film was accompanied by a successful merchandising campaign, including action figures, comics, and video games.
Diverse Cast
Conan the Destroyer features a diverse cast, highlighting the importance of representation in the entertainment industry.
Legacy
The legacy of Conan the Destroyer continues to resonate with fans, keeping the character of Conan alive in popular culture.
The Journey Continues
Conan the Destroyer leaves room for further adventures, making fans eagerly anticipate future installments in the franchise.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Conan the Destroyer is a classic action-adventure film that captivates audiences with its thrilling storyline, stunning visuals, and memorable characters. With its epic battles, fantastical world, and Conan’s heroic journey, the movie continues to be a favorite among fans of the fantasy genre. Whether you’re a fan of the original Conan the Barbarian or new to the series, Conan the Destroyer promises to be an exciting and entertaining cinematic experience that should not be missed.
FAQs
1. Who directed Conan the Destroyer?
Conan the Destroyer was directed by Richard Fleischer.
2. When was Conan the Destroyer released?
The movie was released on June 29, 1984.
3. Is Conan the Destroyer a sequel?
Yes, Conan the Destroyer is the sequel to the 1982 film Conan the Barbarian.
4. Who plays the role of Conan in the movie?
Arnold Schwarzenegger portrays the iconic character of Conan in Conan the Destroyer.
5. Are there any other notable actors in the film?
Yes, the movie also stars Grace Jones, Wilt Chamberlain, and Mako.
6. What is the plot of Conan the Destroyer?
The plot follows Conan and a group of companions as they embark on a quest to retrieve a mystical artifact and face various challenges along the way.
7. How was the reception of the film?
The reception of Conan the Destroyer was mixed, with some praising the action sequences and performances while others felt it was not as strong as the first film.
8. Is Conan the Destroyer worth watching?
If you’re a fan of fantasy adventure and enjoy the first Conan movie, Conan the Destroyer is definitely worth watching for its action-packed storytelling and iconic characters.
9. Can Conan the Destroyer be watched as a standalone film?
While the movie is a sequel, it can be enjoyed as a standalone film without prior knowledge of the first installment.
10. Are there any plans for a sequel to Conan the Destroyer?
Currently, there are no plans for a direct sequel to Conan the Destroyer, but the character of Conan has appeared in other adaptations and spin-offs over the years.
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