Hercules (1997)

Hercules (1997)

7/10

Starring

Tate Donovan

Danny DeVito

James Woods

Susan Egan

Directed by John Musker and Ron Clements

All you have to do is watch it once, and the numerous catchphrases from Hercules will stick with you. It’s one of Disney’s most memorable animated movies and part of the last trio of films in their Renaissance Era, followed by Mulan (1998) and Tarzan (1999).

Hercules is funny, action-packed, and has such a deep, mysterious tale that on your first watch, it’s hard to predict how the story will unfold.
Very loosely based on the legendary Greek hero Heracles (known by his Roman name, Hercules), this Disney movie is their 35th animated feature film. It features a standout voice performance from James Woods as Hades. The story is a bit dark, and it can be hard to explain to children when watching, so be warned.

There have been many portrayals of the Greek hero Hercules, but none have been as funny or memorable as Disney’s complete rewrite of his backstory and tale, which goes like this:
Hercules is born to the Greek gods Zeus and Hera (yes, Disney changed his entire backstory, from birth to death).

Zeus’s brother, Hades, is jealous and plots to overthrow Zeus to rule Olympus. After consulting the Fates, Hades learns that in eighteen years, a planetary alignment will allow him to locate and free the Titans, whom Zeus has imprisoned. He can then send the Titans to conquer Olympus and seize power. However, the Fates warn him that if Hercules fights in the battle for Olympus, the Titans will be defeated, and Hades’ plan will fail.

Hades immediately sends his minions, Pain and Panic, to kidnap baby Hercules and feed him a potion that will turn him mortal.
Pain and Panic fail to complete their task fully, and Hercules retains his god-like strength.

As an adult, Hercules journeys to Zeus’s temple to learn about his origins. There, he discovers that Zeus is his father and is told that to rejoin his family on Olympus, he must prove himself a true hero.
He is sent to train with Philoctetes (Phil), who will teach him how to become a hero.
On his journey, Hercules meets and falls in love with Megara. He also battles numerous villains, including the most memorable Disney villain of all: Hades.

The songs, voice casting (especially James Woods as Hades), and the overall charm make this movie great.
Hercules is a keeper—it never gets old, no matter how many times you watch it. It’s a perfect addition to your collection for future generations to enjoy.