#conan the barbarian 2011

[zanephillips]

JASON MOMOA Conan the Barbarian (2011)

[adaptations-polls]

Which version of this do you prefer?

See tags on original post for further notes

[madamebaggio]

Notes: Previously...

***

“Do you feel better?”

Tamara nodded, still feeling pretty shaken up by what had happened.

“Drink this.” The Font Demon passed her water.

She drank slowly because her throat pained her. She’d thought she was going to suffocate for a minute back there.

“Thank you.” She spoke softly.

He just nodded at her.

“I’m lucky that your Master needs me alive.” She joked weakly.

He was silent for a long minute. “Yes.”

[stephenlang-slang]

Stephen lang, Rachel Nichols, and Jason Momoa at the San Diego Comic Con 2011.

[stephenlangdaily]

At Comic Con in New York, 2011

[nightbringer24]

I’m watching the Jason Mamoa Conan the Barbarian film and I have to say... I am actually enjoying it. It is closer to the original Conan books for sure, but the Arnie one has a good level of charm to it.

[erstwhile-punk-guerito]

[dweemeister]

Whenever you feel alone, just remember that those kings will always be there to guide you. And so will I.

Born to a turbulent family on a Mississippi farm, James Earl Jones passed away today. He was ninety-three years old. Abandoned by his parents as a child and raised by a racist grandmother (although he later reconciled with his actor father and performed alongside him as an adult), the trauma of his childhood developed into a stutter that followed him through his primary school years – sometimes, his stutter was so debilitating, he could not speak at all. In high school, Jones found in an English teacher someone who found in him a talent for written expression, and encouraged him to write and recite poetry in class. He overcame his stutter by graduation, although the effects of it carried over for the remainder of his life.

Jones' most accomplished roles may have been on the Broadway stage, where he won three Tonys (twice winning Best Actor in a Play for originating the lead roles in 1969's The Great White Hope by Howard Sackler and 1987's Fences by August Wilson) and was considered one of the best Shakespearean actors of his time.

But his contributions to cinema left an impact on audiences, too. Jones received an Honorary Academy Award alongside makeup artist Dick Smith (1972's The Godfather, 1984's Amadeus) in 2011. From the end of Hollywood's Golden Age to the dawn of the summer Hollywood blockbuster in the 1970s to the present, Jones' presence – and his basso profundo voice – could scarcely be ignored. Though he could not sing like Paul Robeson nor had the looks of Sidney Poitier, his presence and command put him in league of both of his acting predecessors.

Ten of the films James Earl Jones appeared in, whether in-person or voice acting, follow (left-right, descending):

Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb (1964) – directed by Stanley Kubrick; also starring Peter Sellers, George C. Scott, Sterling Hayden, Keenan Wynn, and Slim Pickens

The Great White Hope (1970) – directed by Martin Ritt; also starring Jane Alexander, Chester Morris, Hal Holbrook Beah Richards, and Moses Gunn

Star Wars saga (1977-2019; A New Hope pictured) – multiple directors, as the voice of Darth Vader, also starring Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, Peter Cushing, Alec Guinness, Billy Dee Williams, Anthony Daniels, David Prowse, Kenny Baker, Peter Mayhew, and Frank Oz

Claudine (1974) – directed by John Berry; also starring Diahann Carroll, Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs, and Tamu Blackwell

Conan the Barbarian (1982) – directed by John Milius; also starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sandahl Bergman, Ben Davidson, Cassandra Gaviola, Gerry Lopez, Mako, Valerie Quennessen, William Smith, and Max von Sydow

Coming to America series (1988 and 2021; original pictured) – multiple directors; also starring Eddie Murphy, Arsenio Hall, John Amos, Madge Sinclair, Shari Headley, Jermaine Fowler, Leslie Jones, Tracy Morgan, and KiKi Layne

The Hunt for Red October (1990) – directed by John McTiernan; also starring Sean Connery, Alec Baldwin, Scott Glenn, and Sam Neill

The Sandlot (1993) – directed by David Mickey Evans; also staring Tom Guiry, Mike Vitar, Patrick Renna, Chauncey Leopardi, Marty York, Brandon Adams, Grant Gelt, Shane Obedzinski, Victor DiMattia, Denis Leary, and Karen Allen

The Lion King (1994) – directed by Roger Allers and Rob Minkoff, as the voice of Mufasa; also starring Jonathan Taylor Thomas, Matthew Broderick, Jeremy Irons, Moira Kelly, Niketa Calame, Ernie Sabella, Nathan Lane, and Robert Guillaume, Rowan Atkinson, Whoopi Goldberg, Cheech Marin, Jim Cummings, and Madge Sinclair

Field of Dreams (1989) – directed by Phil Alden Robinson; also starring Kevin Costner, Amy Madigan, Ray Liotta, and Burt Lancaster

[ontarom]

Stephen Lang movies I've watched in 2023 (2/3):

The Monkey's Paw (2013)

Officer Down (2013)

Old Man (2022)

Mid Century (2022)

Braven (2018)

A Town Has Turned To Dust (1998)

Conan the Barbarian (2011)

[gone2soon-rip]

JAMES EARL JONES (1931-Died September 9th 2024,at 93). American actor known for his film roles and his work in theater. He was one of the few performers to achieve the EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony). He was inducted into the American Theatre Hall of Fame in 1985, and was honored with the National Medal of Arts in 1992, the Kennedy Center Honor in 2002, the Screen Actors Guild Life Achievement Award in 2009, and the Academy Honorary Award in 2011.

Jones worked steadily in theatre, winning the Tony Award for Best Actor in a Play for his role as a boxer in The Great White Hope (1968), which he reprised in the 1970 film adaptation, earning him Academy Award and Golden Globe nominations.

Jones won his second Tony Award for Best Actor in a Play for his role as a working class father in August Wilson's Fences (1987). He was a Tony award nominee for his roles as the husband in Ernest Thompson's On Golden Pond (2005) about an aging couple, and as a former president in the Gore Vidal play The Best Man (2012). His other Broadway performances included Cat on a Hot Tin Roof (2008), Driving Miss Daisy (2010–2011), You Can't Take It with You (2014), and The Gin Game (2015–2016). He received a Special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in 2017.

Jones made his film debut in Stanley Kubrick's Dr. Strangelove (1964). He received a Golden Globe Award nomination for Claudine (1974). Jones gained international fame for his voice role as Darth Vader in the Star Wars franchise, beginning with the original 1977 film. Jones's other notable films include The Man (1972), Conan the Barbarian (1982), Matewan (1987), Coming to America (1988), Field of Dreams (1989), The Hunt for Red October (1990), Sneakers (1992), The Sandlot (1993), The Lion King (1994), and Cry, the Beloved Country (1995). On television, Jones received eight Primetime Emmy Awards nominations winning twice for his roles in thriller film Heat Wave (1990) and the crime series Gabriel's Fire (1991). He also acted in��Roots (1977), Jesus of Nazareth (1977), Picket Fences (1994), Homicide: Life on the Street (1997), and Everwood (2004). His deep,booming,basonic voice,has become iconic,through his voice roles as Darth Vader,and as Mufasa,in Disney's 1994 animated feature classic,the Lion King.amid other voice roles.James Earl Jones - Wikipedia

[mayamidnightmelody]

The Titans of Action Cinema: Chuck Norris, Steven Seagal, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Sylvester Stallone

Action cinema has seen a myriad of stars, but few have had the enduring impact and larger-than-life personas of Chuck Norris, Steven Seagal, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Sylvester Stallone. These icons not only redefined the genre but also left an indelible mark on popular culture. Each brought their unique style, charisma, and physical prowess to the screen, captivating audiences worldwide. Let's delve into the legacies of these titans of action cinema.

Chuck Norris: The Martial Arts Master

Chuck Norris is more than just an action star; he is a legend whose name is synonymous with toughness. Born on March 10, 1940, in Ryan, Oklahoma, Norris began his career in martial arts, winning numerous championships and founding his own schools. His transition to cinema came with the 1972 film "Way of the Dragon," where he famously fought Bruce Lee.

Norris's stoic demeanor and martial arts expertise became his trademarks. Movies like "Good Guys Wear Black" (1978) and "Lone Wolf McQuade" (1983) solidified his status, but it was the "Missing in Action" series (1984-1988) and "Walker, Texas Ranger" (1993-2001) TV show that truly made him a household name. Norris's roles often depicted him as the silent, invincible hero, a persona that has been immortalized in countless internet memes and "Chuck Norris facts."

Steven Seagal: The Aikido Enforcer

Steven Seagal, born April 10, 1952, in Lansing, Michigan, brought a unique blend of aikido to Hollywood, a martial art known for its fluidity and use of an opponent's energy against them. Seagal's imposing presence and real-life martial arts credentials set him apart in the action genre.

Seagal's breakout role came with "Above the Law" (1988), where he played Nico Toscani, a cop with a knack for brutal hand-to-hand combat. His subsequent films, including "Hard to Kill" (1990), "Marked for Death" (1990), and "Under Siege" (1992), showcased his no-nonsense approach to justice and solidified his reputation as an action star. Despite controversies and a varied career, Seagal remains a significant figure in martial arts cinema.

Arnold Schwarzenegger: The Austrian Oak

Arnold Schwarzenegger, born July 30, 1947, in Thal, Austria, is arguably the most recognizable action star in history. Before conquering Hollywood, Schwarzenegger was a bodybuilding champion, winning Mr. Olympia seven times. His herculean physique and undeniable charisma made him a natural fit for action films.

Schwarzenegger's breakthrough came with "Conan the Barbarian" (1982), but it was "The Terminator" (1984) that catapulted him to superstardom. His roles in "Predator" (1987), "Total Recall" (1990), and "True Lies" (1994) further cemented his status as an action icon. Beyond his film career, Schwarzenegger's tenure as the Governor of California (2003-2011) showcased his versatility and appeal. His catchphrases, particularly "I'll be back," have become ingrained in pop culture.

Sylvester Stallone: The Underdog Champion

Sylvester Stallone, born July 6, 1946, in New York City, is the epitome of the underdog story, both on and off the screen. Stallone wrote and starred in "Rocky" (1976), a film about a small-time boxer who gets a shot at the world heavyweight title. "Rocky" was a critical and commercial success, winning three Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and solidifying Stallone's place in Hollywood.

Stallone's other iconic role came with "First Blood" (1982), introducing the world to John Rambo, a Vietnam War veteran with unparalleled survival skills. The "Rambo" series and subsequent "Rocky" sequels established Stallone as a leading action star. His ability to portray characters with a mix of vulnerability and relentless determination resonated with audiences. Films like "Cobra" (1986), "Cliffhanger" (1993), and "The Expendables" series (2010-2014) further showcased his range and staying power.

Legacy and Influence

Chuck Norris, Steven Seagal, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Sylvester Stallone have each contributed uniquely to the action genre, shaping its evolution and leaving a legacy that continues to inspire new generations of filmmakers and actors. Their films are not just action-packed spectacles but cultural touchstones that reflect the changing tastes and values of their times.

These stars' dedication to their craft, coupled with their distinct personalities and physical capabilities, ensured their lasting impact on the world of cinema. Whether it's Norris's martial arts prowess, Seagal's aikido techniques, Schwarzenegger's bodybuilding background, or Stallone's underdog spirit, each has left an indelible mark on the landscape of action films.

[the-conquest-of-shred]

Conan the Barbarian 2011 is I swear to god one of the most ineptly made films of all time

[madamebaggio]

Notes: Previously...

***

“I don’t feel so well.”

The Font Demon turned to the princess and looked her over. “What do you feel?”

“Dizzy.”

He got closer and put a hand to her forehead. “You have a fever.” He frowned. “You were not sick earlier.”

“It started an hour ago.”

“Did you eat anything?”

“No.”

“Are you sure?”

“Of course!” She snapped. Tamara’s knees buckled.

“Tamara!” He barked as he held her. “Did you touch any plant?”

“A flower.” She said, her eyes closed. “A while back.”

He was suddenly quiet.

“Hey.” Tamara called. “What is wrong?”

[stephenlang-slang]

Conan the Barbarian (2011). Stephen Lang as Khalar Zym.

[moviemunchies]

I think I underestimated this film when I decided to watch it this time. I had thought I would find it a very dumb actionized adaptation of the Howard character with little substance. And that’s not really what I found? There was more to this movie that I rediscovered on this watch-through.

So that’s cool.

Conan the Barbarian is an adaptation of the Conan character (who wasn’t really known exclusively as “Conan the Barbarian” in the original stories, though he is sometimes described as a barbarian) from Robert E. Howard, set in the mythical prehistoric ‘Hyborean Age’, but with more Plot to make it a film. Conan is a Cimmerian child whose parents and village are slaughtered by the forces of cult leader Thulsa Doom. He’s sold into slavery, and grows up as a champion gladiator. When he escapes slavery, he becomes a thief. When he and his friends go up against the cult of Thulsa Doom, Conan decides it’s the perfect time to take revenge. Of course, it’s not so simple as that to kill a powerful cult leader.

The original Conan stories tend to be mostly self-contained. There is not an overarching Plot to the stories. This movie, and th 2011 remake, try to make it more cinematic by having Conan’s parents be murdered, and Conan hungering for revenge on the warlord who killed them. But that’s not in the stories–Conan isn’t a tragic hero looking for vengeance. He’s a wandering warrior trying to make a buck! 

So the first time I saw this movie, I was a teenager, and I had started reading the Conan stories (albeit, the ones with editing by Sprague de Camp, not the original Howard stories, because that’s what my dad had); I was frustrated that the movie turned Conan’s into a typical Hollywood fantasy revenge tale. That doesn’t mean I didn’t enjoy it, only that it didn’t really feel like Conan to me, and I resented how it became the version of the character most people knew about.

But this is actually a pretty good movie on its own? It has some problems, of course. The female lead, Valeria, never has her name spoken in the movie (she’s named in the credits, and in the sequel, but not int he movie), and I’m not sure WHY she’s so in love with Conan in the first place, other than that he’s the lead. 

Conan’s also got a lot less agency than he should. Yes, his slave masters taught him to read for… Reasons (and also used him as a breeding slave what??). And he’s set free, he doesn’t escape slavery, again, for Reasons. He sort of stumbles onto Thulsa Doom’s cult, though when he does, he decides to go all the way, so that’s definitely a choice on his part.

I’m sorry I’m making this sound like a really stupid movie. It’s not! This is a movie that defined fantasy filmmaking for years for a reason. There are plenty of action scenes and sword fights, which feel exciting without feeling overdone or over-choreographed. The brutal style of combat fits for a world that we’re told is before the rise of civilization as we know it. I’m also impressed at times at how clever some of the characters are in combat–shooting enemies from a distance, setting traps. And yet those action scenes are still loads of fun.

The music is, all in all, surprisingly good? I didn’t remember it being this good, which is dumb because it’s apparently famous. But it captures the idea of an exciting, swashbuckling fantasy adventure (despite not really being swashbuckling, I guess?). I could listen to this over and over for a while now.

I don’t know if I’d call this movie deep, but it’s certainly thinking about deeper themes. Conan’s god Crom never appears in the story, but his relationship with Crom is a key if understated part of his character. The Riddle of Steel clearly occupies his mind, and while it’s not as if he goes around demanding the answer, it’s one of the first things about his religion that he explains to Subotai. 

[Also, some people seem to think we’re meant to assume that Thulsa Doom’s answer is correct by default? I don’t know that it is, at least, not completely.]

And of course, Conan’s final prayer for vengeance, which he ends by saying that if Crom doesn’t grant it, then “to hell with you!” It’s certainly memorable.

Thulsa Doom is not actually a Howard Conan villain (I believe he’s a Howard Kull villain?). He’s still terrifying. I am not generally a fan of ‘religious fanatic’ characters in fiction because they tend to be shallow and written without any effort at making them make sense. But a cult leader? This is a great type of villain, when done correctly, and Thulsa is pretty good. He actually feels like a threat, because you see his hordes of fanatical followers, and how devoted they are to him.

Although I don’t know how his cult makes sense–they have a weird orgy where they serve people soup? What is your theology, guys? What does this have to do with snake worship? 

And why does he turn into a snake? Not a deal-breaker, but it’s weird. Supposedly the novelization explains it. Either way, it’s freaky and unsettling, which is I think exactly what they’re going for. It definitely works in the scene it takes place in.

I liked this movie more than I thought I would on the rewatch. If you’re interested in fantasy films, old school action movies, well, Conan the Barbarian should be able to satisfy that itch. It’s fun, it’s deeper than you’d expect, and it’s certainly memorable. It’s not flawless, and it’s certainly not close as an adaptation of the Howard stories, but that doesn’t make it a bad movie. It’s still a pretty good one.

[nightbringer24]

That’s a good fantasy film.