Conan The Destroyer (1984) *** [Conan Double Feature Pt. 2]

Forgoing the lyrical, contemplative quality of its 1982 predecessor (review) in favor of humor and camp, Conan The Destroyer (1984) is nonetheless a very entertaining fantasy adventure. There’s still a fair amount of bloodletting (the film was released mere days before the PG-13 rating was introduced), plus great costumes and production design, and beautiful locations (shot in Mexico). 

The characters in CTD are fun and the cast includes some wonderful character actors such as Grace Jones, Tracey Walter, and Sarah Douglas (Mako makes a welcome return as well). Some of the practical effects appear a bit dated now, but they have a charm and tangible quality that I love. Basil Poledouris returned to deliver another majestic musical accompaniment, though nothing can hold a candle to his score for Barbarian. 

Rather than compare Destroyer to the first film, it’s best to just enjoy this (only slightly) lower-budgeted sequel for what it is—a movie that embraces its pulp roots and sets out for mass appeal.

Richard Fleischer Feature Films Ranked