It took Hollywood a shockingly long time to realize that female-centered blockbusters could be both a worthwhile commercial and critical investment. The Conan movies had done well so why wouldn't a Red Sonja swords and sandals fantasy action epic, especially with Arnold as Nielsen's co-star? For many female fans, Red Sonja was a character to love in spite of the misogyny baked into her mythos. Red Sonja is weighed down by its leery origins, in addition to not being very good. Simone has continued to write Sonja, including with her debut novel, Red Sonja: Consumed, published last year.