The Barbarians: Blu-Ray Review

In 1983 the world was introduced to the twin bodybuilders turned actors, David and Peter Paul in the comedy D.C. Cab (also arriving on Blu-ray this week). They would go on to have a small role in 1984’s fantastic The Flamingo Kid before being cast as the leads in Cannon Films 1987 Conan knock-off, The Barbarians, which is now available on Blu-ray in the U.S.

Directed by Ruggero Deodato (Cannibal Holocasust), the film follows orphan twins Gore (David Paul) and Kutcheck (Peter Paul) who were separated as young boys and forced to work in the pit by the evil Kadar (Richard Lynch). They were also tortured and trained to fight by the Dirtmaster (Michael Berryman). Because Kadar gave his word that the twins would not die by his hands or the hands of his men, they would be forced to fight each other to the death while wearing masks so that they would not recognize each other. This of course would happen when they are old enough and in peak physical condition.

Kadar’s plan does backfire when the twins remember each other during the fight, and they make their escape. However, they plan to return to rescue the Queen Canary (Virginia Bryant) who is held captive by Kadar. With the help of the outlaw Ismene (Eva LaRue), the twins set out to free the mother-like-Queen from Kadar and his evil sorceress, China (Sheeba Alahani) before they can get their hands on a magical ruby which would make them all-powerful.

The Barbarians is a perfect example of what Canon Films was all about. They loved to knock off popular film trends of the time at a fraction of the budget that Hollywood studios spent. They also loved to try and produce their own movie stars. I could see them wanting to do that with The Barbarian Brothers, but this would be the only time the twins worked with the studio. Not surprising since the film didn’t even make a million dollars at the box office. As a huge fan of Cannon Films, there is quite a bit to admire about The Barbarians production. Having said that, David and Peter Paul’s shtick gets old pretty, quickly for me and annoys more than it entertains. If you are a fan of the film, the Blu-ray looks quite good and a definite upgrade from the DVD. Since I never saw this one theatrically, this is the best The Barbarians has ever looked to me.  If you are a fan, I recommend picking up this release.

Bonus Features:

• NEW Audio Commentary by Film Historians Troy Howarth and Nathaniel Thompson
• Theatrical Trailer

BY: Marc Ferman