We have obtained some interesting news regarding the upcoming Conan The Barbarian film! We get the scoop from Peter Lindholm, a writer for the Swedish outfit Metro. We were made aware of this news (and provided a translation) thanks to TMB reader Joel Gustafsson! Here’s a translation of the interesting parts of the (attached) interview with Fredrik Malmberg:
Fredrik is the head of Paradox Entertainment that owns the rights to the Conan franchise. He says that Arnold wants to play the part of Conan if they can wait a couple of years. Fredrik says that they can’t wait that long and Arnold has instead been offered a cameo as Conans father in the movie after the one beeing developed right now. They hope to make three of four movies.
So who will be the new Conan? Someone, maybe unknown, with acting talent like Gerard Butler in 300 or Christian Bale in Batman. Not a bodybuilder.
I hope they are able to hold off and get Arnold back as Conan, but if they cannot, having him cameo as Conan’s father would be pretty kick ass. I am very glad that Arnold has interest in the project, and that the people involved see the benefit of having him on board.
I am fine with an unknown actor, it allows us to focus on the character, and never distracts from the story. If they can score for Conan what Superman scored in Routh – I will be happy. If they aren’t going to select a body builder, I am fine with that. HOWEVER, the actor they choose must be a natural beefcake/badass. Conan is a warrior born, and needs to have an intimidating aura about him.
I am also glad that they are planning a series of films. If they do it right, this will be a lot of sword and sandal/sworcery action for years to come! Any movie with a sword will garner my interest and If this series rules – I will pump my fist in praise of Crom.
Once again, thank you very much to Joel for this hookup. It was just down right classy for him to share this with us.
International friends – what are your thoughts on this Conan news?
