Hercules Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A super-strong himbo has to complete a bunch of tasks while a sassy dame and a fire-headed jerk try to stop him, only for him to realize that being nice is more important than having muscles.

🍿 Hercules: Detailed Plot Synopsis

The Birth of Hercules and Hades’ Plan

On Mount Olympus, Zeus and Hera celebrate the birth of their son, Hercules. However, Hades, God of the Underworld, plots to overthrow Zeus. The Fates reveal to Hades that Hercules will foil his plans. He tasks his minions, Pain and Panic, with turning Hercules mortal and killing him.

Hercules’ Mortal Upbringing

Pain and Panic succeed in turning Hercules mortal, but fail to kill him. A childless couple, Amphitryon and Alcmene, find and raise him. As Hercules grows, his immense strength makes him an outcast. He discovers a medallion revealing his divine heritage and sets out to find answers at the Temple of Zeus.

Training to Become a Hero

At the Temple of Zeus, the statue of Zeus comes to life and reveals Hercules’ true parentage, explaining he must become a ‘true hero’ to return to Mount Olympus. Zeus sends Hercules and his winged horse, Pegasus, to find Philoctetes (Phil), a satyr trainer of heroes. Phil reluctantly agrees to train Hercules, and after rigorous training, they head to Thebes.

Megara and Hades’ Manipulation

On their way to Thebes, Hercules rescues Megara (Meg) from a centaur. Unbeknownst to Hercules, Meg is working for Hades. In Thebes, Hercules battles the Hydra and other monsters sent by Hades, gaining fame and recognition but not true heroism.

The Price of a Hero

Hades offers Hercules a deal: give up his strength for 24 hours to save Meg, promising her freedom. Hercules agrees, only to discover Meg was working for Hades all along. Hades unleashes the Titans, who overpower the gods on Mount Olympus. Though weakened, Hercules fights a cyclops, and Meg is fatally injured, voiding Hades’ deal and restoring Hercules’ strength.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Hercules (Tate Donovan): The son of Zeus, stripped of his immortality, who strives to become a true hero and reclaim his place on Mount Olympus.
• Meg (Susan Egan): A cynical and independent woman working for Hades who eventually falls in love with Hercules.
• Hades (James Woods): The fast-talking, comedic god of the Underworld who plots to overthrow Zeus.
• Phil (Danny DeVito): A grumpy satyr and a former hero trainer who reluctantly agrees to mentor Hercules.
• Zeus (Rip Torn): The King of the Gods and father of Hercules, who guides his son on his journey to become a true hero.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Hades: “I can’t believe this guy! I throw everything I’ve got at him, and it doesn’t even…” – Hades expresses his frustration when Hercules continues to thwart his plans.
• Meg: “I’m a damsel, I’m in distress, I can handle this. Have a nice day.” – Meg sarcastically dismisses Hercules’ heroic efforts, showcasing her independent spirit.
• Phil: “My dream wasted, gone, finished! I’ll never get a chance to train a *real* hero!” – Phil expresses his disappointment and frustration before being convinced to train Hercules.
• Hades: “Poor unfortunate souls.” – Hades refers to the recently deceased souls in the River Styx.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $85,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $99,112,101
• Worldwide Gross: $252,712,101

💥 Hercules Reviews

Personal Review

I loved Hercules! The music is so catchy and the animation style is unique. James Woods as Hades is absolutely hilarious, and Meg is a great, non-traditional Disney heroine. When Hercules sacrifices himself for Meg, I teared up. It showed how much he has grown. Such a fun and heartwarming movie!

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of Disney animated musicals”
  • “Families looking for a fun and adventurous film”
  • “Those interested in Greek mythology (with a comedic twist)”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Cartoon violence (battles with monsters)”
  • “Deals with the Underworld and death”

Professional Reviews

• Rotten Tomatoes: “Hercules’s vibrant animation and catchy songs make it a solid entry in the Disney canon. James Woods steals the show as Hades.
• Common Sense Media: “Hilarious take on Greek myths has cartoon violence, romance. Kids will love the slapstick, adults the sly humor. James Woods’s Hades is the most memorable character. The music is upbeat and fun.
• AllMovie: “A clever and fast-paced take on Greek mythology that appeals to both children and adults. The animation is vibrant and dynamic, and the voice acting is top-notch.

Audience Reactions

James Woods’ performance as Hades is iconic and hilarious.: The witty humor and fast-paced storytelling keep audiences of all ages entertained.

The soundtrack is upbeat, memorable, and a fresh take on classic Disney tunes.: The gospel-inspired musical numbers are unique and bring a new energy to the film.

Overall Consensus: Hercules is a fun, energetic, and humorous take on Greek mythology that has become a beloved Disney classic for its memorable characters, catchy music, and vibrant animation.

Awards

1. ASCAP Film and Television Music Awards (Top Box Office Films)- 1998

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “James Woods ad-libbed many of Hades’ lines, bringing his unique comedic timing and contributing to the character’s iconic status.”
• “The film’s animation style was heavily influenced by the work of British cartoonist Gerald Scarfe.”
• “When the film was about to go over-budget, James Woods offered to refund his salary and finish the film for free.”

🖥️ How to Watch Hercules?

Hercules is readily available for streaming on Disney+. You can also rent or purchase it from digital platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Vudu. Check your local listings for television airings as well.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Hercules, you might like these similar films:

• Aladdin (1992): Both are animated Disney films with a comedic tone, memorable songs, and a focus on a protagonist who needs to prove himself to be worthy.
• Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Lightning Thief (2010): Both feature demigods grappling with their heritage and battling mythological creatures in a contemporary setting.
• Jason and the Argonauts (1963): A classic film featuring Greek mythology and heroic quests, sharing thematic elements and an epic scope with Hercules.
• The Road to El Dorado (2000): Another animated adventure movie with a similar sense of humor and mismatched protagonists, highlighting a fun and lighthearted journey.

🛒 Hercules Related Products

• Funko Pop! Disney: Hercules – Hades with Chase: A Funko Pop of Hades, Lord of the Underworld, with the rare chance of receiving a chase variant figure, making it a must-have for collectors.
• Disney Hercules (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) [Remastered]: Enjoy the remastered version of the soundtrack featuring hit songs like ‘Go the Distance’ and ‘I Won’t Say (I’m In Love)’, bringing the film’s iconic music to your digital library.
• Disney Hercules Movie Poster: The original movie poster in all its glory, high-quality print and colors bring this artwork to life
• DISNEY HERCULES – Megara – Action Figure Doll – Hasbro 1997: Megera (or Meg) the independent Disney character that kids fell in love with, original Hasbro 1997 action figure

🎧 Soundtrack

Hercules features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Go the Distance” – performed by Michael Bolton
• “I Won’t Say (I’m in Love)” – performed by Susan Egan
• “Zero to Hero” – performed by Tawatha Agee, Lillias White, Roz Ryan, LaChanze, Cheryl Freeman, Vaneese Thomas
• “The Gospel Truth” – performed by Tawatha Agee, Lillias White, Roz Ryan, LaChanze, Cheryl Freeman, Vaneese Thomas

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Hades Being Iconic: A Compilation of His Best Moments

Dive into the world of Disney’s Hercules and witness why Hades remains an unforgettable and iconic villain. This video captures his most memorable moments, showcasing his charisma, wit, and cunning.

The Myth of Hercules: 12 Labors in 8-bit Animation

Embark on an epic journey through Greek mythology as this TED-Ed video brings to life the legend of Hercules and his extraordinary feats. From battling the Nemean Lion to capturing the Erymanthian Boar, this video offers a captivating and informative retelling of a timeless tale.

Megara’s Full Story: Her Mythology & Sarcasm Explained

You can’t miss this in-depth exploration of Megara, the strong and sarcastic heroine of Hercules. Isaac Carlson takes us on a journey through her mythology, revealing her backstory and the complexities that make her such a beloved character.

Is Ariel Related to Hercules? Exploring Disney’s Connected Universe

Get ready to have your mind blown as MatPat takes us on a wild ride of speculation. This video dives deep into the theory that Ariel and Hercules are connected, uncovering potential Easter eggs and hidden storylines that will make you question everything you thought you knew about the Disney universe.

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