Johnson's charm and strong visuals prop up a thin, lifeless myth.
Verdict tier Mixed, lukewarm or divided, on a scale of Unfavorable, Mixed, Recommended, Exceptional.
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Critic consensus
Critical reception for Hercules is mixed to mildly negative, with most reviewers finding it a passable but unremarkable action spectacle. Production values, 3D effects, and Dwayne Johnson's likable screen presence are the most commonly cited points in its favor. Critics frequently faulted the thin, banal story, weak supporting characters, and a lack of genuine excitement in its battle sequences, with several noting it falls well short of comparably ambitious sword-and-sandal films. The general consensus is that it is watchable but undemanding, best approached with minimal expectations.
5 not-rated reviews aren't plotted
Positive = 6.5/10 and up · negative = below 5/10
AI-generated summary of 15 critic reviews · may contain errors
Report inaccuracyFrom the papers
Top critics first, then by score · not-rated last · updated
Top critic
Film review ·
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.
Top critic
Film 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.
Top critic
Film 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.
Film 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"
Film 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.
Film 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.
Film 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.
Film review ·
Hercules is a good film compared to the other one that was inflicted on us. Dwayne Johnson does his part.
Film review ·
Fans of sword-and-sandal films are bound to like this one as well. Just leave your thinking caps at home.
Film 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.
Film 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.
Film 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.
Film 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.
Film 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.
Film review ·
A laboured attempt at redefining Hercules for the new generation.
Credits
Dwayne JohnsonHercules
Ian McShaneAmphiaraus
John Hurtthe King of Thrace
Rufus SewellAutolycus
Aksel HennieTydeus
Ingrid Bolsø BerdalAtalanta
Reece RitchieIolaus
Joseph Fiennes
Tobias Santelmann
Peter Mullan
Rebecca FergusonErgenia
Irina ShaykMegara
Joe Anderson
Barbara PalvinAntimache
Steve PeacockeStephanos
Tamina Snuka
Brett Ratner
Beau Flynn
Ryan Condal
Evan Spiliotopoulos
Fernando Velázquez
Dante Spinotti
Mark HelfrichEnglish films like Hercules
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