An Unnoticed Cinematic Allusion?

Just this week I watched Conan the Barbarian (1981) for the first time. The most striking aspect of this film to me (aside from the story and acting, about which the less said the better) was the resemblance of its cinematography and musical treatment to Lord of the Rings (2001-2003). Consider, as only one of many possible examples, how thudding music is used with closeups of running feet. I don’t believe this was coincidental, nor do I believe it was simply a matter of two film-makers responding to similar themes. But there’s nothing wrong with getting your inspiration wherever you can!