The project has been circulating in Hollywood rumor mills for years, but it now appears to be gaining real momentum. According to multiple reports, the film could be directed by Christopher McQuarrie, known for his work on the Mission: Impossible series alongside Tom Cruise.
TL;DR — King Conan Movie (Quick Summary)
Project: King Conan • Lead actor: Arnold Schwarzenegger • Potential director: Christopher McQuarrie
Table of Contents
- A Return to an Iconic Fantasy Hero
- Christopher McQuarrie in Talks to Direct
- Schwarzenegger Still Loves the Character
- A Long-Delayed Sequel
- What Happens Next?
A Return to an Iconic Fantasy Hero
Schwarzenegger first portrayed Conan the Barbarian in the 1982 cult classic directed by John Milius. The movie helped launch his acting career and quickly became one of the most beloved sword-and-sorcery films ever made. He later reprised the role in Conan the Destroyer (1984).
The new film would pick up decades later, presenting an older version of the legendary warrior — a concept inspired by the “King Conan” storyline from Robert E. Howard’s universe. Instead of another origin story, the sequel would explore Conan’s life as a seasoned ruler reflecting on years of battle and conquest.
For fans of the original films, that premise could provide the long-awaited continuation of the character’s story.
Christopher McQuarrie in Talks to Direct
One of the most interesting details about the project is the potential involvement of Christopher McQuarrie. The filmmaker has built a reputation for large-scale action filmmaking through the Mission: Impossible franchise.
McQuarrie has reportedly discussed the film with Schwarzenegger and is interested in developing a more mature take on the character. The idea is to create something closer in tone to Clint Eastwood’s Unforgiven — a reflective story about an aging warrior confronting his past.
If the project moves forward, it would mark a major shift from the traditional action-heavy fantasy formula that defined the earlier Conan movies.
Schwarzenegger Still Loves the Character
Schwarzenegger has repeatedly expressed interest in returning to Conan over the years. The character holds a special place in his career, helping him transition from bodybuilding champion to Hollywood star.
In previous interviews, the actor explained that he believes the “King Conan” story is the perfect way to revisit the role without trying to recreate the original films. Instead of portraying a young barbarian again, he would play a veteran king dealing with the consequences of a lifetime of battles.
A Long-Delayed Sequel
A direct sequel to the original Conan films has been discussed since the early 2000s. Various studios attempted to revive the franchise, including the 2011 reboot starring Jason Momoa, but none continued Schwarzenegger’s storyline.
The proposed King Conan project aims to finally deliver the sequel fans have been waiting for since the 1980s.
What Happens Next?
For now, the film is still in early development and hasn’t been officially greenlit. However, the combination of Schwarzenegger’s enthusiasm and McQuarrie’s involvement has renewed excitement around the idea.
If everything comes together, audiences could soon see the return of one of fantasy cinema’s most legendary warriors — this time not as a young barbarian, but as a king.
And if Conan truly rides again, it could mark one of the most nostalgic franchise revivals in modern Hollywood.