Ripped from the pages of Robert E. Howard's beloved pulp stories, 1982's Conan the Barbarian and its sequel, 1984's Conan the Destroyer, not only popularized a new subgenre - the sword-and-sorcery film - but also made a cinematic icon of the star playing the titular hero, former bodybuilding sensation Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Conan the Barbarian, from maverick filmmaker John Milius, sees the Cimmerian thief and future king rise up from slavery to become an unparalleled and fearsome warrior, intent on vengeance against the evil snake cult that slaughtered his family long ago, led by the shape-shifting sorcerer Thulsa Doom (James Earl Jones). In the sequel, helmed by action veteran Richard Fleischer, Conan finds himself escorting a young princess on a quest for a mythical horn that will awaken a slumbering god, battling an onslaught of evil beasts, wizards and cannibals along the way.
I grew up on these flicks, and the sat morning cartoon. As a teen I discovered the stories. Riddle of steel, basil poledorous score is the best ever. Themes of Nietzsche permeate the first, a lighter more fun tone the 2nd. Both are essential viewing. Thulsa Doom is James Earl Jones at his best. ARNOLD at his best along with Terminator. A thrilling watch, the special features are orgiastic. 
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