The Barbarians

In the decade synonymous with synthesizers, spandex, and Schwarzenegger, another set of musclebound titans comes into the spotlight in Peter and David Paul's 1987 sword-and-sorcery film, The Barbarians. From Italian filmmaker Ruggero Deodato, known for his controversial exploitation cinema, the movie breaks away from his typical genre to tap into the box-office potential of primordial adventures and macho bodice-rippers in the vein of Conan the Barbarian.

Deodato, showing a penchant for controversy, again does not shy away from doling out generous servings of violence and physical intensity that reel viewers in, providing a necessary background pulse to the movie. He moulds the film with a departure from his previous grisly horror films and introduces the audiences to a fantastical world of magic amulets, oppressed circus folk, and rippling muscle, creating a spectacle of vibrant escapism.

Set in an ancient time in a mythical and merciless world, David and Peter Paul star as the Ahmatti brothers, twin warriors who offer brute force and loyalty to their adoptive father, the Ragnick chieftain. The undisputed leaders of a traveling circus troupe, the Ragnicks eke out an existence in the harsh world, remaining largely neutral amidst surrounding conflicts.

However, their precarious tranquility is shattered when Richard Lynch's antagonist, Kadar– a tyrannical ruler with an insatiable lust for power– enters the scene. Kadar abducts the Ragnick queen, Canary (Eva La Rue), and sets his sights on the tribe's magical ruby, which provides protection and prosperity for the Ahmatti's tribe.

The daunting task of rescuing their queen and securing their ruby falls upon the expectantly mighty shoulders of the Ahmatti brothers. Between them, the brothers epitomize the ultimate embodiment of muscular bravado necessary to undertake a herculean mission of this magnitude. The twins, often identified as the Barbarian Brothers, wear their roles with ease, and their real-life camaraderie translates effectively on-screen, offering some fun and memorable moments.

The movie builds off the defining traits of such pulpy sword-and-sorcery fare: blood, battles and brawn; but it does so with an extra sense of bombastic fun. Comedic interludes feature prominently in the narrative, and while not always the pinnacle of wit, often lighten the film's mood and move it away from being just another bloody romp through a doomed land.

The visual elements of The Barbarians are notable for their atmospheric charm. Considering its genre and production conditions, the movie showcases commendable set designs and special effects that manage to evoke the awe-inspiring mystique of an ancient, dangerous world. Combined with Deodato's distinctive visual storytelling, the film manages to elevate its narrative beyond the confines of its modest budget.

Complementing these visual feats is an orchestral soundtrack composed by Pino Donaggio that heightens the drama and adds to the epic feel of the movie. The music, filled with both bombastic themes for thrilling fight sequences and somber tones for the quieter emotional beats, adds another dimension in making The Barbarians leave an indelible mark.

Backed by a reliable ensemble of Michael Berryman and Richard Lynch, the movie's antagonist(s) resound with dread and villainy. Lynch, especially, with his sly cunningness and ruthless ambition, offers an effective adversary to the brawn and brotherhood of our twin heroes. Of special mention is Eva La Rue, whose character Canary provides a refreshing and formidable female presence amidst the masculine dominated narrative.

In summary, The Barbarians is an engaging blend of action, adventure, fantasy, and buddy comedy that offers a unique and memorable cinematic experience. It proudly maintains its 80s vibes, from the costumes and special effects right down to the hairdos and over-the-top performances. It embraces the expected cliches, yet, it still manages to deliver a fresh cocktail of fantasy and fun. For fans of sword-and-sorcery genre, or those looking for a nostalgic trip back to the unique kernel of 80s adventure, The Barbarians is definitely a trip worth taking.