In this reimaging of the legend, directed by Brett Ratner, Hercules has completed his 12 tasks and is wandering the world as a mercenary with his merry men and one woman as penance. Yes the Greek myth has him doing the 12 labours as penance for killing his wife and children after Hera drives him mad — but this is a reimaging.
When Hercules is approached by the beautiful daughter of the king of Thrace for help to defeat a warlord, he obliges only to learn later that he has been betrayed. Hercules now has to face his destiny and set things right which he does in an impressive flurry of CGI and bulging biceps. Based on a graphic novel, The Thracian Wars by Steve Moore, the movie tries to look beyond the myth and then remembers it is just supposed to be this mindless action film so it throws in some funny dialogue, curvaceous, scantily-clad women and washes it down with tons of gore.
Cast-wise, apart from Dwayne Johnson playing a shaggy, craggy Hercules, John Hurt has loads of fun chewing the scenery as the duplicitous King of Thrace. Rufus Sewell Dark Cityplays Autolycus, a knife-throwing thief from Team Hercules. Ian McShane as the visionary Amphiaraus has all the good lines. Joseph Fiennes’ version of King Eurystheus seems to be inspired by the original Greek myths—one can easily imagine him cowering inside a jar as big and brawny Hercules brandishes the Erymanthian Boar. Fiennes also reminds one of Enemy at the Gates. Here Hercules’ nephew does the propaganda, telling stirring tales of the mighty Hercules to the extent that his commentary during a battle is practically along the lines of breaking news. Slaying the multi-headed media hydra is a task worthy of a demigod! There are little throwaways like that for those who wish to make the connection. Otherwise, sit back and sail away to an ancient time of gods, warlords and kings... Unfortunately Xena, Warrior Princess doesn’t have a walk on part.
