Hercules

Reviewed by Lisa Renee Davis

Hercules is a movie about a boy that has to prove himself a true hero. Hercules was born to the god Zeus, King of Olympus, and his wife. Hades is the god of the dead and underworld. He plots to kill Hercules. The plan fails and Hercules is lost. A couple finds him and adopts him.

Growing up, Hercules knew he was different from all the other children and much stronger. Kids and adults made fun of him. His attempts to help people usually turned into chaos because he didn’t think enough before he acted.

Hercules went to the to the temple of the almighty King Zeus to find his real parents. Zeus accepted Hercules as his son but sent him on a quest to become a true hero. He fought many battles. He meets Meg and falls in love with her. Hercules became very famous. But he was not a true hero yet.
More adventures and intrigue follow. Hercules and Meg’s lives come together because each one sacrifices for the other. Hercules learned the lesson that " A true hero isn’t in the strength of ones armor but the strength of his heart!"
Hercules is a good movie for anyone studying Greek mythology. It’s also great for kids and the whole family to watch and talk about because it teaches us that being strong or popular or famous is not what makes people special. Instead, it’s a person’s heart that makes the difference.

To Talk About

Before the movie:

1. Look for what makes Hercules famous. Why didn’t Zeus think this was enough to make Hercules a hero?

2. How is the story of Hercules a good one for people today?

After the movie:

1. Talk about what the lessons in the movie. Do you agree? Why?

2. Was this like any movie you have ever seen? If so why or why not?