cinemajesty Movie Review: "Hercules" (2014)The legend of the most-promoted Greek mythology character adapted with help of a graphic novel from Radical comics; An ensemble cast unmotivated to start with title-role inhabiting actor Dwayne Johnson, who had been the choice of a life-time to character-fine-artists actor Ian McShane, completely lost in costume and splendor of mediocre, uninviting production design; A hundred million U.S. Dollar budget follows Producer/Director Brett Ratner into horrible conceived visuals, which are so static and wooden-act outs that even first looks hurts the eye as the brains, if even the distributing Studios Paramount Pictures & Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer had have the guts to bring the picture to an R-rated state of blood and gore spilling, matching the club-swinging Hercules, then the spectre might have said it goes all along entertaining for genre fans of historical action. But this picture pends between mythological monster engagements in minor explicit scenes, where some shots as a jumping lion onto fearless engaging Hercules are agreeable, which unfortunately are not followed into suspense-creeping horror scenarios and given further way to unnecessary mass battle sequences of mismatching continuities in a mashed-up editorial, which can not be helped even in a revisit of the footage.© 2017 Felix Alexander Dausend (Cinemajesty Entertainments LLC)

Screen_Blitz Hercules, the iconic hero of the ancient old Greek mythologies has made for some interesting stories in both literature and cinematic media; but has faced some notable abuse in the latter category, with the critically panned 'The Legend of Hercules' earlier in the year as a example. This tense, violent epic starring the alluring action star and former wrestler Dwayne Johnson in the role of the titular hero blossoms the Greek hero in a more polished execution by the hands of director Brett Ratner. Though the film has a fair share of excitement and intensity in the bargain, the film drives in an execution that leads little to be desired and interests that eventually wears away after the first hour. Whether it's the lack of nuance in the story, or the forgettable characters; this fantasy action adventure feels more of a missed opportunity than an exciting force to reckoned with. This isn't however, to say that Dwayne Johnson doesn't deliver a solid sense of fun to the screen when the epic action sequences unfold. In this epic adventure, Hercules (played by Dwayne Johnson, son of Zeus, is haunted by his blood-stained past which involves the brutal murder of his wife and daughter. Living a life of constant suffering and bloodshed, Hercules has turned his back on the gods, and seems to have no sight of redemption. That is until Lord Cotys (played by John Hurt), the kind ruler of Thrace enlists Hercules to his band of warriors including Amphiarus (played by Ian McShane, female archer Atalanta (played by Ingrid Bolso Berdal, Autolycus (played by Rufus Sewell, and wild barbarian Tydeus (played by Aksel Hennie) on a treacherous journey to defeat the ruthless warlord Rhesus (played by Tobias Santelmann) while discovering his true image.For a valiant and powerfully endearing Greek warrior like Hercules, there are only a handful of actors in the Hollywood roster to suite the role of the titular hero, and Dwayne Johnson more than fits the bill. With his highly appealing muscular physique and equally likable personality, Johnson shines brightly in the role as the powerful demigod sporting the thick loincloth and sandals while getting the chance to show off his bare biceps. The energetic performance however, does not quite anchor the film nor does it stand out above the rest of the cast. At least, he provides just enough energy to fuel his character in the midst of this otherwise unremarkable hack-and-slash extravaganza. With the story revolving around our hero struggling with s shady past and his people questioning him of being the son of Zeus everyone recognizes him for, there should have been a more thoughtful, if not groundbreaking plot to experience in the bargain, or maybe a more compelling study on the Hercules's genesis. Sadly, the film never reaches any of these dynamic roots. While the story offers at least some interest value, it's quickly loses its appeal near the film's one hour mark, and it never cashes in any surprises beyond some brisk action sequences presenting our characters in violent sword-slashing combat. The key concept questioning the identity of Hercules as the powerful son of Zeus is quickly abandoned never left resolved. The character department on the other hand lies the great weakness that makes the film is less than engaging above a surface level. None of the supporting characters including the villain are interesting, and the cheesy dialogue doesn't do them much justice nor do the cartoonish performances by the support cast including Ian McShane -- who is given almost nothing to do, that leave them to resemble quirky caricatures than believable characters. This is not to say the film doesn't have some positive light however. The action is somewhat fun, but nothing particularly impressive above some beautiful special effects shots. The battle sequences are brutal per say, enough to push the PG-13 rating to the very edge as we witness some brief shots of CGI blood spew. Unfortunately, these sequences are the only thing keeping the film sustainable for its rather short 98-minute run-time which if longer, could have left plenty of room for a story and character with further depth.Hercules is a middling epic action adventure that had plenty of potential, but sadly never rises above the average level nor does it offer any good surprises to make it an enthralling experience for all seeking for an extravagant action thrill ride. Though there is a little entertainment value to be handed during the battle sequences, the film is ultimately a forgettable entry.

Christoffer Bjerregaard This is to date one of the most cringe and bad acting movies. Dwayne simply don't fit into the movie. Now i just saw all of the big companies and the fact that this movie was given around 100million dollars. I can only say WTF? worst acting to date also special effects are straight up bad. i can strongly say - Don't WATCH THIS MOVIE EVER!!The movie simply looks like its from the 1990's, also this movie isn't even about Hercules (the real Hercules) the only thing they have in common is that they are both a demigod. i would rather do the dishes than watch this film. Also to the team who made this - be ashamed. And since when can 4 guys keep an entire army away?

Michael Loughrie Very good movie, I liked the movie a lot.It was very entertaining, I mean, who gives a s@&! about acting and directing? All that matters is if it's fun and entertaining, stop it you dumb movie critics! This was a masterpiece!!Recommended for teens, and adults alike! The movie is bloody and very funny at some moments!Very intense and fun!!!!Very good movie, I liked the movie a lot.It was very entertaining, I mean, who gives a s@&! about acting and directing? All that matters is if it's fun and entertaining, stop it you dumb movie critics! This was a masterpiece!!Recommended for teens, and adults alike! The movie is bloody and very funny at some moments!Very intense and fun!!!!