Author/filmmaker John (Monarch) Walsh grants readers a comprehensive history of one of sword-and-sorcery's cinematic masterpieces, John Milius/Dino & Raffaella De Laurentiis' Conan the Barbarian, in an stylish, 13" x 10.5", 176-page hardback.
Based on Robert E. Howard's tales of the rough, exalted adventurer, the 1982, Milius-directed Conan (which he co-adapted with on-the-ascent Oliver Stone) took from Frank Frazetta's sprawling imagery and Marvel Comics' sensationalism to forge an epic tour de force, with Arnold Schwarzenegger as the nominal, chiseled champion; Sandahl Bergman as his svelte companion, Valeria; Mako as the mystical Akiro (the fable's narrator); William Smith as Conan's sword-trusting father; Nadiuska as Conan's striking but damned mother; Max Von Sydow as the disgruntled King Osric; Gerry Lopez as the loyal Subotai; Sven-Ole Thorsen as the pugnacious Thorgrim; Valerie Quennessen as the spellbound Princess Yasmina; Cassandra Gava as the gorgeous Wolf Witch; and James Earl Jones as the Jim Jones-esque, Thulsa Doom, one of the most chilling antagonists ever to touch celluloid.
Early, film attempts to bring the dynamic barbarian to the screen are detailed, as well as background information on the performers and contributors, (including venerable composer Basil Poledouris), who assured Conan the Barbarian became a virile landmark. Readers are also shown amazing, production artwork by the phenomenal Ron Cobb and William Stout and rare, behind-the-scenes imagery, which distinguish the epic's creative mortar.
As a further incentive, Walsh's edition comes with a slipcover featuring the iconic theatrical poster, and the leathery-looking hardcover is embossed by Conan's shimmering Anvil of Crom. Walsh's book is, therefore, not merely a intriguing, coffee-table addition, but a genuine work of art.
Fans of the film (as well those who enjoy virile fantasy in general) would be wise ... very wise to purchase this exquisite, making-of commemoration.
Order a first edition at
https://www.amazon.com/dp/180336176X?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details
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