Joshua Rivera
Updated on: October 11, 2024 2:53 am GMT
Arnold Schwarzenegger credits the late actor James Earl Jones with helping him become the action star he is known as today. Jones, who passed away on Monday at the age of 93, played a crucial mentoring role during the filming of the 1982 classic film *Conan the Barbarian*. Today, Schwarzenegger reflects on their collaboration, shedding light on the professional guidance he received from an actor renowned for his commanding presence and iconic voice.
James Earl Jones: A Mentor on Set
James Earl Jones is perhaps best recognized for his role as Darth Vader in the *Star Wars* franchise. However, his portrayal of Thulsa Doom in *Conan the Barbarian* proved to be equally pivotal for both his career and that of Schwarzenegger. At the time of filming, Schwarzenegger was transitioning from a successful bodybuilding career into acting. With limited experience, he faced numerous challenges, including overcoming his thick accent and mastering complex action sequences that required both physical and verbal prowess.
“In the first days of filming *Conan*, I was the new kid on the block, and [Jones] couldn’t have been more welcoming,” Schwarzenegger shared on social media recently. His appreciation for Jones’s mentorship was evident, as they both spent time together rehearsing lines and discussing the nuances of acting.
The Making of a Cult Classic
*Conan the Barbarian*, directed by John Milius, was released in 1982 and quickly gained a cult following. The film not only showcased groundbreaking practical effects, such as Jones’s character transforming into a giant snake, but also captivated audiences with its action-packed scenes. This success laid the groundwork for Schwarzenegger’s future as a leading action star.
By the late 1970s, Schwarzenegger gained fame in the bodybuilding community and participated in the documentary *Pumping Iron*. Although he earned a Golden Globe for Best Acting Debut in 1976’s *Stay Hungry*, it was *Conan* that marked his breakthrough in Hollywood. The role demanded extensive preparation, both physically and mentally, as Schwarzenegger needed to learn horseback riding, sword fighting, and rope climbing.
Preparing for the Role
Schwarzenegger’s dedication extended beyond physical training. The actor faced difficulties with dialogue delivery due to his accent and spent substantial time in director John Milius’s trailer rehearsing lines. Kenneth von Gunden’s book, *Flights of Fancy: The Great Fantasy Films*, notes that he rehearsed certain monologues more than 40 times. Jones provided invaluable assistance, often helping with line readings and offering guidance on the craft of acting.
“He was always willing to read lines with me in his trailer and always had the perfect acting advice,” Schwarzenegger recounted. This collaborative spirit not only encapsulated the camaraderie on set but also underscored Jones’s role as a mentor to a burgeoning talent.
Challenges and Safety on Set
While *Conan the Barbarian* became an iconic film, the production did not come without its challenges. The set was known for its dangerous stunts, and several cast members suffered injuries during filming. Actress Sandhal Bergman, who portrayed Valeria, experienced significant burns and lacerated her finger during sword fighting scenes. Schwarzenegger himself faced a harrowing incident when a wolf bit him, leading to a fall that required stitches.
Despite the risks involved, Jones demonstrated remarkable professionalism and comfort during the climactic beheading scene involving his character. He rehearsed the scene with Schwarzenegger extensively, even as it remained one of the most famous and graphic moments of the film. “It was amazing that, because of all the practice we had done for this scene, James Earl Jones felt comfortable enough to actually stand there during the execution,” Schwarzenegger explained in a behind-the-scenes documentary.
Industry Legacy
The financial success of *Conan the Barbarian*, which grossed nearly $69 million worldwide, led to a sequel, *Conan the Destroyer*, in 1984. It also propelled Schwarzenegger into stardom, paving the way for future hits such as *The Terminator*, *Commando*, and *Predator*. Today, he is regarded as one of Hollywood’s most prominent action stars.
Jones expressed gratitude for his time working with Schwarzenegger and acknowledged the film’s monumental significance. He compared its epic scale to the works of Shakespeare, highlighting its potential to resonate with audiences throughout generations.
The Enduring Impact of Their Partnership
The collaboration between Schwarzenegger and Jones in *Conan the Barbarian* illustrates the importance of mentorship in the entertainment industry. Their hard work and cooperation not only shaped two distinguished careers but also contributed to the film’s status as a cult classic.
As everyone remembers James Earl Jones, Arnold Schwarzenegger shares his thoughts about how important mentors are for new actors. The movie *Conan the Barbarian* will always be remembered, and the great work of its actors will keep being celebrated for many years.
