Hercules (2014)

 

I like the way this film dealt with the LEGEND of Hercules instead of the reality of what the man may or may not have done as the 'Son of Zeus'. Hercules himself doesn't believe he is a demi-god and that is a fresh take on the traditional mythical heroes story

That reality doesn't stop our Hercules from using his legend to profit himself and his band of mercenaries. Rufus Sewell is very good as Autolycus as is Ian McShane as a mystic seer who seems to have a special connection  to the gods. A solid cast fights some great battles when our Magnificent Six are called upon to train an army to battle evil half man/half centaur creatures. Or is there something more going on here?

 

Everyone has an opinion about Hercules, the man they think he knows because of the 12 Labors that he performed. Children especially treat him like a rock star as do most who know the legends.

Dwayne Johnson is very much like that in real life and for that reason is perfectly cast. People are inspired by Hercules' mere presence and expect him to be their savior. But as we all know in classical Greek myths, things never turn out well for the hero and his family or friends.

There is much evil to battle against here and the result is a solid action picture. Not something I would expect from Brent Rattner who did make my beloved Rush Hour 2 but the abysmal X-Men 3 - X-Men United.

Johnson gets full credit for pulling off the role as our hero and his dedication to looking good while doing his own stunts is impressive. His natural charm sets the right tone. I could watch him do one of these sword and sandal pictures every couple of years and never get bored.

Will John Hurt ever die? He does a speech about wanting to know when he dies but he must have already made his deal with the devil. I have seen him in 4 movies this year already. He does the same steady character contribution that he brings to everything he does. Snowpiercer is another good John Hurt role from this year.



The battle scenes have a much more realistic as opposed to a CGI feel to them. The battle plan is solid and fantastically choreographed.  For what it is, this one hits all the right buttons with me. Another great movie in a summer of great movies.