Review by Don Guillory
There are many stories that can be told with respect to Greek Mythology, however, we find ourselves revisiting the story of Hercules, only this time with a twist. Rather than a singing Disney version or a campy Schwarzenegger 70s version, or even the classic Steve Reeves’ Hercules, we are given a version that visits a young Hercules that shows him on the rise of greatness and becoming aware of who he truly is.
In The Legend of Hercules the audience is immediately thrust into what gives the appearance of being a combination of 300, Troy, Gladiator, and The Odyssey. The scenes are picturesque and the fight scenes are filled with action where they often make use of complex fight scenes with stops and slow-motion. The style in which it was shot, the fighting choreography, sound effects, and general look of the action sequences gives the appearance that the filmmakers were trying to incorporate the elements from these films, whether they belonged or not, in order to make this film appealing to audiences.
Because of a perceived betrayal to his brother, he is sent away to his certain doom by his father, the King only after learning his true identity. He and the Captain he fights alongside are the only survivors and pledge to help each other make it back to Greece. Along the way, they have to endure becoming slaves, arena fighters, and eventually, lead a revolt against the king upon their return to Greece.
The love story that is created in the film between Hercules and Princess Hebe of Crete, as well as the love triangle that involves Hercules half-brother Prince Iphicles can seem distracting and a bit frustrating to watch. It is a storyline that we have seen too often and seems to have been thrown into this film to serve very little purpose.
The film is very confusing as to what they are trying to accomplish. Is he trying to get revenge against the King who betrayed him by sending him to his death? Is he trying to lead the people of Greece to their freedom? Is he trying to rescue Greece for his true love? Will he understand who he truly is? There are many holes in what is taking place with this film and the writing. These holes are not filled by the acting by any measure.
With a weak story, weak acting, and no real star power to carry the film, do not expect much from The Legend of Hercules.
2/5
