I actually was disappointed when early on it was revealed this was not the Greek mythology Heracles, half god, half human type. However, towards the end, my disappointment turned into surprised enjoyment of the movie. More than likely the super human feats from this time were all smoke and mirrors and I thought this was a different approach to the legend that we normally see.
Exactly my take on it.
I had expected a typical sword and sorcery adventure with over-the-top CG effects (ala Clash of the Titans re-make), but instead it turned into a more clever (and decently made) telling of how the legends may actually have come to pass.
It reminded me a bit of The 13th Warrior re-telling the story of Beowulf and how every mystical thing was given a plausible re-world explanation. I sort of enjoy this kind of (sometimes comic) twist, when a legend retold through the years becomes a hyperbolic interpretation of the truth, kind of like the reputation of Dread Pirate Roberts, tall tales like Paul Bunyan, or figures from history like Robin Hood.
So I rather enjoyed the movie and was impressed at the casting. Also the animations in the end credits actually reveals to the audience how some of the 12 labors were actually done (with tactics and teamwork).
"When the legend becomes fact, print the legend." --from The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance
I agree. When I first noticed the de-mythologizing I cringed at the the possibility of another artsy fartsy deconstruction of a beloved hero being dragged through the mud. But Dwayne Johnson films as bloody as they can be tend to have a certain ethical sensibility at least as far as I'm concerned. I was not disappointed. I was entertained by the human centered drama of a brawny but rather decent man coming to terms with his violent world and past tragedies. Unlike some recent sword and sandal films there was no bitter aftertaste. Well Done.
shareAgreed.
I only saw the trailer and as usual, avoided all interviews and other bull. So I was expecting actual mythical take too, filled with CGI.
I was definitely surprised that they took the realistic approach to the legend. It was fun.
It's actually left ambiguous whether he is the son of Zeus or not. He's certainly strong enough to be a demigod.
Anyway, I liked it too. I didn't know Ratner directed it before I saw it; didn't know anything about it, really and didn't have high expectations, so maybe that helped. But I found it surprisingly engaging and entertaining. I don't mind the alternate take on the myths. It's fiction, so there's room for different interpretations.
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La-bibbida-bibba-dum, la-bibbida-bibbi-doo
I, too, agree~
"A distant ship, smoke on the horizon. You are only coming through in waves."