If two darker and more adult movies didn't generate the kind of money Disney wanted, then logically they would go off and make a lighthearted and kid friendly movie. They chose to tell the story of the epic mythological hero with the strength of a thousand body builders. Best of all, the film's directors had directed The Great Mouse Detective, The Little Mermaid, and Aladdin. What could go wrong? Well...let's just get going with the review.Plot: Atop Mount Olympus, Zeus celebrates the birth of his son, Hercules. But a vengeful Hades, who secretly plans to dethrone Zeus, has his henchmen kidnap the boy from home and take his god like powers away (?). Hercules still retains his god-like strength, and is raised by two farmers (sound familiar yet?)
Hercules, after discovering his true identity, goes off to find the satyr Phil and train to be a hero. Several months pass and Hercules and Phil go off to make Herc a hero. Along the way, he meets the spunky yet kind Megara (*cough "Lois Lane"*cough). When Hades discovers that Hercules is alive, he plans to have Meg seduce Herc to give away his weakness. But Megara, touched by Hercules's kindness, refuses to help Hades. So Hades threatens to kill Meg, which Herc agrees to give up his strength for. Hades invades Mt. Olympus and leaves Herc to stop him however he can.
What's Bad?: With the exception of Meg, none of the heroes are really likable or relatable. Hercules is a klutzy Clark Kent knock off who can't seem to talk well with women he's in love with. Phil (Danny DeVito) is basically a shorter and more annoying version of the trainer from Rocky.
The songs are kind of bland. With a few exceptions, I don't even remember scenes where they sang. The score was really weak after Hunchback's, and isn't very interesting or gripping.
I am not going to discuss how it has absolutely nothing to do with Greek Mythology. I don't care!
What's Good?: Gimme a H-A-D-E-S! Not only does James Woods make this movie, he is the highlight of this movie. After the ruthless and sinister villains of Frollo and Jafar, Hades is basically Hollywood agent with an even shorter temper. He is one of the best villains in the movie and is one of the few times when you actually want the villain to win.
The animation, while not up to the standards the other films set, is still pretty good.
Overall: The film isn't that bad, but it isn't really good either. James Woods makes the movie and the songs at least keep your attention. I like it, and you may too, but don't go in with alot of optimism and you'll be fine.
Report Card
Hero: B
Heroine: B+
Villain: A+
Side Characters: C-
Songs: B-
Musical Score: C
Animation: B+
Special Effects: B-
Themes: B+
Story: C+
Final Grade: B
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