What Is Conan the Barbarian About?
The premise of Conan the Barbarian in 308 words, with nothing given away. The full story follows below.
In the brutal, myth‑steeped realm of Hyboria, a lone Cimmerian warrior roams a landscape scarred by ancient battles and whispered legends. The world teems with harsh deserts, towering stone citadels, and shadowy cults that cling to forgotten powers, creating a backdrop that feels both timeless and volatile. A relentless wind carries the echo of clashing steel, and the very soil seems to remember the weight of countless quests for glory, vengeance, and survival.
Conan awakens to a destiny forged in fire and loss, his iron will tempered by the memory of a devastating tragedy that drives him forward. Haunted by the ghosts of his past, he bears the mantle of a relentless avenger, guided by a personal code that prizes strength, honor, and an unyielding belief in the “Riddle of Steel.” His journey across Hyboria is as much an internal battle as an outward trek, marked by the constant pull between raw fury and the faint hope of redemption.
Along the way, Khalar Zym looms as a figure of dark ambition, seeking ancient forces that could alter the balance of life and death. His quest for the fabled Mask of Acheron hints at a yearning to defy mortality itself, a path that threatens to unleash a malevolent power upon the world. This collision of purpose sets a stark, high‑adventure tone where personal vendettas intersect with cosmic stakes, and every step forward could tip the fragile scales of destiny.
Accompanying Conan are steadfast companions whose loyalty and varied skills become essential threads in the tapestry of his saga. Together, they navigate treacherous territories, confront enigmatic sorcery, and confront the looming shadow of an ancient evil. The film’s atmosphere blends gritty realism with mythic grandeur, inviting viewers into a world where every horizon promises both danger and the promise of a future forged by the steel of a true barbarian.
What Happens in Conan the Barbarian?
The complete story of Conan the Barbarian, from the first scene to the last, in 790 words (about 3 minutes). Spoilers throughout. Names in the text link to 4 cast member pages.
Spoilers ahead
During the Hyborean age, a period known for its high adventure, a blacksmith named Nial (William Smith) forges a masterful sword. Once completed, he shows it to his young son, Conan (Jorge Sanz), imparting wisdom about their god, Crom, who resides within the Earth, along with the importance of “the Riddle of Steel” that every warrior must decipher to gain entry into Valhalla. Nial warns Conan not to place his trust in men, women, or beasts but assures him, “But this you can trust,” while gesturing toward the sword he has crafted.
As winter descends upon Conan’s village, located in the forest and inhabited by the Cimmerians, dark and mysterious black riders, adorned with a serpent emblem, ruthlessly attack the village. Despite the villagers’ brave resistance, they are no match for the skilled assailants. Nial valiantly slaughters several of their attackers but ultimately succumbs to the onslaught, falling prey to their dogs.
In the aftermath of the brutal raid, Conan’s mother Maeve (Nadiuska) stands as the last line of defense, clutching her sword while safeguarding her son. As they face the leader of the marauders, Thulsa Doom (James Earl Jones), a chilling figure with hypnotic blue eyes, Maeve holds her ground. However, she falls under Doom’s mesmerizing gaze and tragically loses her life at his hand, leaving young Conan in despair. As the village burns around them, Conan and the remaining children are taken captive as slaves.
Sold to a tribe known as the Vanir, Conan and the other children labor at a massive grain mill called the Wheel of Pain. As time goes by, young Conan matures into adulthood, portrayed by Arnold Schwarzenegger, growing immensely muscular during his grueling servitude. Eventually, he is purchased by a fierce, red-haired warrior who trains him as a pit fighter. Although initially perplexed by the violence, Conan quickly masters various combat techniques and becomes a champion, earning riches for his owner.
After some time, his master, inebriated, decides to free him. Newly liberated, Conan finds himself pursued by wolves across the rugged landscape. Seeking refuge, he climbs a rocky cairn and stumbles upon the tomb of an Atlantean general, reclaiming his ancient sword and equipment for self-defense. Utilizing the sword, he breaks free of his chains, wearing a victorious smirk as the wolves close in.
Equipped with newfound weapons, Conan embarks on a journey and meets a beautiful woman who possesses some mystical insight. Intrigued, he inquires about a serpent symbol he seeks, only to find himself entangled in an unsettling incident when she transforms into a demon, forcing him to cast her into the flames.
In the following morning light, Conan encounters Subotai (Gerry Lopez), a Hykanian thief, and the two join forces, venturing through towns in search of information about the serpent symbol. They learn of a powerful snake cult, prompting them to raid its temple for rumored treasures, including the coveted “Eye of the Serpent.”
Assisted by Valeria (Sandahl Bergman), another skilled thief they meet during their escapades, they descend into perilous depths, only to awaken a formidable serpent while attempting to steal from the pit. Navigating through ceremony and chaos, they narrowly escape with their lives.
Their misadventures lead them to confront the King, who unexpectedly praises them for defying the cult and enlists their help to rescue his daughter, Princess Yasimina (Valérie Quennessen), ensnared by the sinister Thulsa Doom. As Valeria expresses concern for their future, Conan departs alone on his quest, driven not only to save the princess but also to avenge the tragic loss of his family and his people.
After confronting supernatural challenges and assembling allies like Akiro (Mako), an old wizard, Conan ventures into the heart of Doom’s lair. Disguised within the cult, he faces the dark leader himself, who not only recalls the misdeeds he has committed but also tries to ensnare Conan in a trance.
Left for dead, Conan is ultimately rescued by his devoted friends, who help heal him and prepare for the next battle. Tension mounts as they infiltrate Doom’s stronghold, igniting chaos among the cult’s followers. Despite the overwhelming odds, Conan, Valeria, and Subotai mount a daring escape with the princess, only to face Doom’s wrath once more.
In the climactic showdown, Valeria is mortally wounded, prompting a fierce battle between Conan and Doom’s henchmen before the final confrontation with Doom himself. Ultimately, Conan breaks free from the curse of Doom’s hypnotic influence and slays the dark antagonist, liberating the cult’s followers from his grasp.
In the final moments, Conan contemplates his next moves, burning Doom’s temple in a defiant act. Returning Yasimina to her father, he prepares for whatever adventures lie ahead, hinting at a future where Conan will one day claim a throne of his own creation.
Conan the Barbarian Timeline: Every Key Event in Order
15 key events in the order they happen, from “Creation of the Sword” to “New Beginnings”. 8 events name a place, across 7 locations.
- 1
Creation of the Sword
In the Hyborean age, a skilled blacksmith named Nial forges a masterful sword, pouring his craftsmanship and spirit into its creation. He shows the sword to his young son, Conan, as a symbol of strength and wisdom, teaching him the significance of trust and the Riddle of Steel.
When:Hyborean age
- 2
Village Attack
As winter falls on Conan's village, dark riders with a serpent emblem launch a ruthless attack. Despite the villagers' fierce resistance, the marauders overpower them, resulting in Nial’s bravery but eventual death at their hands.
When:Winter Where:Cimmerian village
- 3
Conan's Loss
With the village in ruins, Conan's mother Maeve stands against the leader of the marauders, Thulsa Doom, wielding her sword to protect her son. Sadly, she succumbs to Doom’s hypnotic gaze, marking a tragic loss for young Conan as he faces despair and captivity.
Where:Cimmerian village
- 4
Slavery Begins
Conan and the other captured children are sold into slavery by the marauders and forced to labor at a grim establishment known as the Wheel of Pain. Through years of suffering, Conan grows strong, shaping himself into a formidable warrior.
Where:Wheel of Pain
- 5
Training as a Fighter
Conan is purchased by a fierce red-haired warrior who recognizes his potential. Under his master’s brutal training, Conan becomes a pit fighter, quickly learning combat techniques and earning wealth and praise for his owner as a champion.
- 6
Freedom from Chains
After a long period as a pit fighter, Conan's inebriated master decides to grant him freedom. However, surrounded by howling wolves, Conan climbs a rocky cairn, discovering the tomb of an Atlantean general and reclaiming his ancient sword and armor.
Where:Rocky Cairn
- 7
Confronting the Demon
Now equipped with his new weapons, Conan embarks on a journey where he meets a woman who seems to have mystical insight. When she unexpectedly transforms into a demon, Conan must act swiftly to save himself, casting her into the flames.
- 8
Allies Unite
Conan crosses paths with Subotai, a Hykanian thief, and they form a partnership to discover more about the serpent symbol that haunts Conan. Their search leads them to a powerful snake cult, driving them to raid the cult's temple seeking treasures.
- 9
Descend into Danger
With the help of Valeria, another skilled thief, Conan and Subotai descend into the depths of the temple to retrieve the fabled Eye of the Serpent. They awaken a fearsome serpent during their heist, narrowly escaping with their lives amid the chaos.
Where:Serpent Temple
- 10
Royal Quest
After their encounter with the serpent cult, Conan and his allies are approached by a king. He enlists their help to rescue his daughter, Princess Yasimina, who has been captured by Thulsa Doom, reigniting Conan’s quest for vengeance.
Where:King's castle
Show the other 5 events of Conan the Barbarian Hide the last 5 events
- 11
Infiltrating Doom's Lair
Conan and his friends infiltrate Thulsa Doom's lair determined to confront him and save the princess. Disguised within the cult, Conan uniquely faces Doom, who attempts to invoke memories of the pain he has caused throughout Conan's past.
Where:Thulsa Doom's lair
- 12
Rescue and Recovery
Left for dead after a fierce battle with Doom's cult, Conan is rescued by Valeria, Subotai, and Akiro, the wizard. They nurse him back to health and prepare for yet another dire confrontation against the forces of Doom.
- 13
The Climax
In a climactic battle, Valeria is mortally wounded, fueling Conan's fury as he fights Doom's henchmen. This sets the stage for a final confrontation with Doom, leading to a liberating victory as Conan overcomes the dark leader.
- 14
Burning the Temple
After defeating Doom, Conan makes a bold statement by burning the cult's temple, symbolizing the end of Doom's reign of terror. With Princess Yasimina safe, Conan looks toward an uncertain future filled with potential adventures.
Where:Doom's temple
- 15
New Beginnings
With the immediate threat of Doom vanquished, Conan returns Yasimina to her father, the king, thereby setting the stage for his next journey. The adventures that await him hint at a destiny where Conan may one day claim a throne of his own construction.
Who Are the Main Characters in Conan the Barbarian?
3 characters, among them Conan, Thulsa Doom and Valeria: who each one is and the part they play in the story. 2 of them link to the actor’s page.
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Conan
Played by Arnold Schwarzenegger
Conan is a fierce and determined warrior driven by revenge for the loss of his family. He grows from a vulnerable child into a mighty champion during his arduous journey through servitude and betrayal. His character reflects strength, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of justice against those who have wronged him.
- ⚔️ Warrior
- 🔥 Strong
- 💔 Vengeful
-
Thulsa Doom
Played by James Earl Jones
Thulsa Doom is the main antagonist, a powerful and hypnotic leader of a serpent cult who embodies evil. His chilling presence and supernatural abilities allow him to manipulate others with ease, making him a formidable foe. Doom’s tragic backstory adds depth to his villainy, showcasing the darkness that can reside within one’s soul.
- 🐍 Villain
- 🧙 Dark Sorcerer
- V
Valeria
Valeria is a skilled thief and warrior who teams up with Conan on his journey. Her bravery and fighting prowess make her an invaluable ally, balancing strength with cunning. Valeria's character is marked by loyalty, and her eventual sacrifice emphasizes the theme of love and loss amidst battle.
- 💃 Thief
- 🔥 Brave
- 💔 Loyal
Where and When Is Conan the Barbarian Set?
Conan the Barbarian is set in Cimmeria, Hyborean Age and Valhalla (Hyborean Age). Here is why the time and place matter to the story.
When
Hyborean Age
The Hyborean Age is a fictional prehistoric period filled with high adventure and swordplay, characterized by the rise and fall of various civilizations. This era is marked by mythical creatures, dark sorcery, and great warriors seeking honor. In this time, mortality is intertwined with legends, shaping the destinies of those who tread its dangerous paths.
Where
Cimmeria, Hyborean Age, Valhalla
Cimmeria is a grim and cold landscape, inhabited by the fierce Cimmerians, known for their bravery and warrior spirit. It is a place rife with danger, where dark riders roam and ancient myths come to life. Valhalla is a legendary hall where warriors aspire to reach after death, celebrated in their everlasting glory.
- 🏔️ Fantasy
- 🏰 Ancient
What Are the Themes of Conan the Barbarian?
3 ideas the story keeps returning to, among them Heroism, Fate and Destiny and Betrayal.
-
01
Heroism
The theme of heroism is central to Conan's journey as he evolves from a vulnerable child witnessing his family's tragedy to a formidable warrior. Driven by revenge and the desire to protect those he cherishes, Conan's courage in facing overwhelming odds exemplifies the heroic archetype. His adventures reflect a determined fight against evil, showcasing both his physical prowess and indomitable spirit.
-
02
Fate and Destiny
Conan's tale underscores the theme of fate, as his path is shaped by the tragedies of his youth and the loss of loved ones. His quest for vengeance and redemption suggests that one's destiny can be forged through resilience and strength. Throughout his journey, Conan grapples with the consequences of his choices, ultimately realizing that he has the power to redefine his fate.
-
03
Betrayal
Betrayal takes a significant role in Conan's story, primarily illustrated through the seductive manipulation of Thulsa Doom. The loss of his mother and the betrayal of trust from those around him motivate Conan to seek vengeance. This theme explores how deceit can lead to devastating consequences, driving heroes to confront their adversaries with relentless resolve.
What Kind of Film Is Conan the Barbarian?
Dark in tone, with steady pacing and a straightforward story, going by the plot summary.
- Tone
- Dark
- Pacing
- Steady
- Story
- Straightforward
- Intensity
- High
- Ending
- Bittersweet
A primal and violent epic of vengeance that follows a barbarian's brutal journey from childhood trauma to a climactic fight against a dark cult, characterized by grim atmospheres and tragic loss.
- brutal
- epic
- vengeful
- grim
- primal
- tragic
- revenge
- slavery and freedom
- barbarian warrior
- ancient cults
Content notes: death of parents, child slavery, animal violence, cult indoctrination, battle violence.
Quiz
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Where to Watch Conan the Barbarian
Stream it on Netflix and YouTube Free, or rent or buy it from Amazon Video and Apple TV Store. US availability and prices from JustWatch.
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