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Hercules is a American adventure film. Having completed his legendary twelve labors, Hercules (Johnson), the Greek demigod, has his life as a sword-for-hire tested when the King of Thrace and his daughter seek his aid in defeating a tyrannical warlord.
Critic Consensus
Critical reception for Hercules is mixed to middling, with most reviewers finding it a passable but unspectacular watch. Production values, 3D effects, and Dwayne Johnson's physical presence and sincerity were the most commonly cited positives. On the negative side, critics frequently pointed to a weak or banal story, underwhelming battle sequences relative to genre benchmarks, and limited acting range from its lead, with director Brett Ratner drawing particular scorn from some quarters. The general consensus is that the film is watchable under low expectations but offers little reason for repeat viewing.
15 reviews · 4 positive · 5 mixed · 1 negative
AI-generated summary of 15 critic reviews · may contain errors
Report inaccuracyCritic Reviews (15)
"Packed with not-too-bad 3D effects - arrows whizzing out of the screen, dangerous creatures lunging at you - and unapologetically embracing its B-movie ambitions, Hercules is watchable and occasionally good fun too. Just don't go in with Gladiator-level expectations."Read full review ↗
"Hercules would be little more than a series of wars and body pile-ups strung together -- even if Ratner does manage to surprise once in a while."Read full review ↗
"The film is directed by Brett Ratner, who continues his onslaught upon the audience that he started with the Rush Hour sequels, X-Men 3 and Tower Heist. If you thought those films were bad, you have seen nothing yet. To make this all the more unpleasant, it's in 3D."Read full review ↗
"What keeps you hooked is the rich earthy textures of the frames, the impressive production values and excellent 3D effects. In spite of its flaws, it is a treat to watch "Hercules""Read full review ↗
"With two Hercules films already out this year, this one comes off too little, too late despite being a far superior effort than the other two. Could've been so much better. Watchable, but not repeat-worthy."Read full review ↗
"When Johnson isn't punching and slashing, he conveys the softer emotions rather well. His pals though, whether by design or not, don't leave an impact. Fiennes' Eurystheus deserved more screen time. The climax could've been better and while the battles scenes aren't as epic as *Gladiator*, the film, along with its sprinkling of tongue-in-cheek lines, makes for a fun watch."Read full review ↗
"The trick to not getting bored with a film like Hercules, then, is to play along with the lead actor and director, as they dish out a passable film. Don't expect too much, and Hercules at least won't make you regret watching it."Read full review ↗
"Fans of sword-and-sandal films are bound to like this one as well. Just leave your thinking caps at home."Read full review ↗
"Hercules is a good film compared to the other one that was inflicted on us. Dwayne Johnson does his part."Read full review ↗
"Dwayne Johnson may not be the most talented actor around but since he is sincere, there is something likable about him. With his presence Hercules is tolerable, else it would have been a disaster."Read full review ↗
"If you like a banal story with bad acting, Hercules should be right up your alley. If you have no such kinks, you might find actual entertainment, moving with the times at 22 Jump Street."Read full review ↗
"While Hercules isn't unwatchable, it is disappointing because an action spectacle like this one has no business being boring. You're better off imagining what adventures could await Hercules and Singham if they did actually join biceps."Read full review ↗
"The film delivers exactly what this suggests. Former wrestler Johnson is not much of an actor. So it helps that stringy wet hair partially covers his face almost throughout, thereby saving him the effort of having to emote."Read full review ↗
"Most important, the pacing is snappy. It may sound like a backhanded compliment to praise this sometimes cheesy movie for never taking itself too seriously, but in a summer of bloated spectacles, this modesty should not be underestimated."Read full review ↗
"A laboured attempt at redefining Hercules for the new generation."Read full review ↗
Cast & Crew
Cast
- Dwayne Johnson · Hercules
- Ian McShane · Amphiaraus
- John Hurt · the King of Thrace
- Rufus Sewell · Autolycus
- Aksel Hennie · Tydeus
- Ingrid Bolsø Berdal · Atalanta
- Reece Ritchie · Iolaus
- Joseph Fiennes
- Tobias Santelmann
- Peter Mullan
- Rebecca Ferguson · Ergenia
- Irina Shayk · Megara
- Joe Anderson
- Barbara Palvin · Antimache
- Steve Peacocke · Stephanos
- Tamina Snuka
- Brett Ratner
- Barry B. Levine
- Beau Flynn
- Ryan Condal
Director
Screenplay
Music
Cinematography
Editing
Details
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