Hercules, the demigod known for his prodigious strength, courage, and numerous far-ranging adventures, has been a staple in fantasy cinema for decades. This collection brings together ten films that explore different facets of Hercules' mythos, from epic battles to personal quests, providing a rich tapestry of storytelling that captivates fans of fantasy and mythology alike. Whether you're looking for action-packed adventures or deeper narratives, these films offer a variety of interpretations of this iconic figure.

Hercules in New York (1970)
Description: A comedic take on Hercules, where the demigod, played by Arnold Schwarzenegger, is sent to modern-day New York City by Zeus to learn humility. It's a quirky, low-budget film that showcases Schwarzenegger's early career.
Fact: Arnold Schwarzenegger's voice was dubbed over in the original release because of his thick accent. The film was his first starring role in a movie.


Hercules (1983)
Description: This Italian production stars Lou Ferrigno as Hercules, who must battle the evil Minos to save his love, Princess Cassiopeia. It's known for its campy charm and Ferrigno's impressive physique.
Fact: Lou Ferrigno, known for playing The Incredible Hulk, was chosen for his physical resemblance to the legendary hero. The film was part of a wave of Italian fantasy films in the 80s.


The Legend of Hercules (2014)
Description: This film takes a more fantastical approach to Hercules' story, focusing on his early life, his love for Hebe, and his rise to heroism. It's known for its CGI-heavy battle scenes and a somewhat darker tone.
Fact: The film was originally titled "Hercules 3D" to emphasize its visual effects. It was released in the same year as another Hercules film, leading to some confusion among audiences.


Hercules (2014)
Description: Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson stars as the titular hero in this action-packed retelling of the legendary demigod's life. The film blends historical elements with fantasy, focusing on Hercules' twelve labors and his quest for redemption.
Fact: This film was the first time Dwayne Johnson played a mythological character. The movie's production design was inspired by ancient Greek art and architecture.


Hercules and the Amazon Women (1994)
Description: Part of the "Hercules: The Legendary Journeys" TV series, this made-for-TV movie introduces Hercules as he battles the Amazons to rescue a village. It's lighter in tone, focusing on adventure and humor.
Fact: Kevin Sorbo, who played Hercules, was chosen for his resemblance to the classic image of the hero. The series was a precursor to the more famous "Xena: Warrior Princess."


Hercules and the Circle of Fire (1994)
Description: Another entry from the "Hercules: The Legendary Journeys" series, this film sees Hercules on a quest to retrieve the Golden Fleece to save his father Zeus, blending myth with fantasy adventure.
Fact: This movie was part of a series of TV movies that led to the creation of the long-running TV show. It introduced many of the characters that would become staples in the series.


Hercules and the Lost Kingdom (1994)
Description: Hercules teams up with a group of warriors to find the lost city of Troy and rescue a princess, showcasing his leadership and heroism in a quest filled with mythical creatures and challenges.
Fact: This was the first of the "Hercules: The Legendary Journeys" TV movies, introducing the character to a broader audience before the series.


Hercules in the Underworld (1994)
Description: Hercules journeys to the underworld to rescue his wife Deianeira, facing numerous mythological creatures and challenges. This film delves into darker themes and explores the hero's emotional depth.
Fact: This movie was the second in the series of TV movies, setting up the mythology for the subsequent TV show. It was praised for its special effects and creature designs.


Hercules Against the Moon Men (1964)
Description: Although not directly about Hercules, this film features Maciste, a character often conflated with Hercules in Italian cinema. Here, he fights against invaders from the moon, offering a unique twist on the hero's adventures.
Fact: The film was part of a series of Maciste films, which were popular in Italy. It's one of the few films where the hero battles extraterrestrial beings.
