King Conan: Arnold Schwarzenegger's Chance for a Late-Period Masterpiece

If the long-mooted third instalment of the 80s sword and sorcery series finally gets off the ground, it could be Arnie's chance to go from ageing action hero to cinematic totem. If you're a fan of 1980s and 1990s Arnold Schwarzenegger, his late-era career has probably come as a bit of a disappointment. The Austrian oak was once Hollywood's most reliable tool for punching killer robots, but he's never really had his Unforgiven moment.

Despite an absurdly influential run of science fiction and fantasy films, Schwarzenegger's post-2000 output has been marked by a series of lacklustre action movies. The Governator's attempts to transition to more dramatic roles have been met with lukewarm reception, leaving many to wonder if he'll ever recapture the magic of his earlier years.

However, if King Conan were to materialize, it could be the perfect opportunity for Schwarzenegger to reinvent himself and leave a lasting legacy. The character of Conan the Barbarian is a classic, and with the right script and direction, it could be the perfect vehicle for Schwarzenegger to showcase his acting chops.

The film would be a chance for Schwarzenegger to tap into his Austrian heritage and explore the complexities of the character, who is both a hero and a villain. It would also allow him to work with a new generation of filmmakers and actors, potentially leading to a fresh and exciting take on the character.

If King Conan were to happen, it would be a testament to Schwarzenegger's enduring appeal and his willingness to take risks. It would also be a reminder that even at 80, he's still got it, and that he's not ready to hang up his sword just yet.

The Guardian notes that if the long-mooted third instalment of the 80s sword and sorcery series finally gets off the ground, it could be Arnie's chance to go from ageing action hero to cinematic totem. ^[4]