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Conan the Barbarian (1982 film)

Conan the Barbarian is a 1982 American sword-and-sorcery film directed by John Milius and written by Milius and Oliver Stone.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Conan the Barbarian is a 1982 American sword-and-sorcery film directed by John Milius and co-written by Milius and Oliver Stone. Based on Robert E. Howard's Conan stories, the film stars Arnold Schwarzenegger as Conan and James Earl Jones as Thulsa Doom. It follows Conan's quest for revenge after his parents are killed by a snake cult leader.

Premise

The film follows Conan from childhood trauma through slavery and adulthood as he seeks revenge against Thulsa Doom, the leader of a snake cult.

Production and creative team

John Milius directed the film and co-wrote the screenplay with Oliver Stone. The film adapts Howard's pulp-era character for the screen.

Cast

Arnold Schwarzenegger plays Conan, while James Earl Jones portrays Thulsa Doom. Supporting cast members include Sandahl Bergman in some versions of the cast listing, depending on the source consulted.

Reception and legacy

The film is widely recognised as Schwarzenegger's breakout role and later developed a cult reputation. It also led to a sequel in 1984.

Key facts

  • The film is a 1982 American sword-and-sorcery movie directed by John Milius.
  • It stars Arnold Schwarzenegger as Conan and James Earl Jones as Thulsa Doom.
  • The screenplay was co-written by John Milius and Oliver Stone.
  • The story centres on Conan's revenge against those who killed his parents.
  • It is based on Robert E. Howard's Conan character and stories.
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Canadian context

The film has circulated widely in Canada as a classic of fantasy cinema and remains part of the broader international Conan franchise.

Frequently asked questions

What is Conan the Barbarian about?
It is about Conan's quest for revenge after his parents are murdered by Thulsa Doom and his snake cult.
Who directed Conan the Barbarian?
John Milius directed the 1982 film.
Who stars in Conan the Barbarian?
Arnold Schwarzenegger stars as Conan, and James Earl Jones plays Thulsa Doom.
What is the film based on?
It is based on Robert E. Howard's Conan stories and character.
Was there a sequel?
Yes. Conan the Destroyer was released in 1984.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conan_the_Barbarian_(1982_film)
    Supports: Director, writers, cast, release year, and basic plot.
  2. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conan_the_Barbarian
    Supports: Origin of the Conan character and the film’s basis in Robert E. Howard’s stories.
  3. Simple English Wikipedia — https://www.simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conan_the_Barbarian_(1982_movie)
    Supports: Plot, cult reputation, Schwarzenegger breakthrough, and sequel mention.
  4. Rotten Tomatoes — https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/conan_the_barbarian
    Supports: Synopsis and genre classification.