Review of Hercules (1997) by Sam P — 11 Apr 2012

I remember watching Hercules originally when it came out 1997. As a kid I thought it was awesome, so awesome I even had a radio tape of the film. However, unfortunately I havenâ(TM)t seen the film for about ten years, and thankfully, two days ago I was given the opportunity to watch it, and couldnâ(TM)t wait.

Iâ(TM)ve always been interested in mythology, which includes Greek, and especially the legend of Hercules, or as it originally was, Heracles. Obviously as it was for a younger audience, they had to change a lot of the mythology, removing the evil stepmother, murdered family, etc. However, what you get from that is a simplistic but involving tale about a young man wanting to be the best he can be. The fact he happens to be a God makes no difference, just makes the story more exciting.

Hercules was kidnapped from Mount Olympus as a baby and forced to drink a potion that removes 99% of his Godhood. Found and brought up by human parents, he still possessed superhuman strength, but was as clumsy as Bambi on ice. After discovering he is actually a God, and son of Zeus, Hercules decides to become a hero, so as to ascend to Godhood again. So we have a clumsy adopted child who wants to become a hero again so he can see his parents. Clean, simple, and endearing.

The two main showstealers, for me at least, was Danny Devito as Phil and James Woods as Hades. Phil provides the mentor, a gruff and tired mentor who has been disappointed by all his previous proteges, & often rides Herculesâ(TM) mistakes. On the other hand, you got one of the best villains in film, Hades, in the guise of a used-car salesman, who has the best wisecracks and rambles. Woods has even admitted that it was his favorite role and you can see why.

The music is awesome as well, as always Disney includes several musical interludes and the use of a âGreek Chorusâ? is a brilliant idea, helping to utilize montages at times and such. All round, I loved the film, and am tempted to buy it for more future viewings.