10 Best Hercules Movies, Ranked

Filmmakers have brought the legendary mythic hero Hercules to life in a variety of feature films that offer unique takes on the iconic strongman and his timeless adventures. As one of mythology’s most universally recognized heroes, Hercules has long captured the imagination of storytellers on the silver screen. His larger-than-life persona lends itself well to grand Hollywood treatment. Directors leverage state-of-the-art effects to showcase his superhuman feats while actors channel godlike strength and charisma. However, the most compelling Hercules films use bold, new interpretations that reexamine the subtleties behind the myth rather than simply regurgitating the same tales.

Though there are many interpretations, certain core elements of the mythical god continue to endure. For instance, his supernatural power, tests of valor, and wrathful gods continue to connect the character across generations and eras. With more Hercules’ movies confirmed and on the way, the character’s cinematic journeys allow examination of timeless themes like courage, sacrifice, and the precarious balance between mortality and immortality. Indeed, the iconic hero’s inherent adaptability to different eras and filmmakers keeps him eternally relevant and fascinating onscreen, and in turn, the star of some of the best Hercules movies of all time.

10 Hercules And The Amazon Women (1994)

Starring Kevin Sorbo as Hercules

Of the many cinematic depictions of Hercules, Kevin Sorbo’s role in Hercules and the Amazon Women may not be the best Hercules movie ever made, but it is worth mentioning. In the television movie that launched the iconic Hercules: The Legendary Journeys series, Sorbo embodies both Hercules’ physical might and his emotional sensitivity. As he contends against warrior women to rescue a kidnapped princess, Sorbo brings humor and conviction that set the tone for his subsequent adventures as the character. With this debut performance, he claimed the title of a generation’s definitive Hercules, leading the series to spawn nearly 200 episodes and cementing his status as the legendary hero.

9 The Legend Of Hercules (2014)

Starring Kellan Lutz as Hercules

Breathtaking combat visuals are the first thing that comes to mind when recalling The Legend of Hercules. However, amid the CGI-enhanced battle scenes and gladiator arena sequences lies a memorable performance by Kellan Lutz as the strong hero that resonates as much as the special effects. While the script hits familiar beats of betrayal and star-crossed romance, Lutz brings a sobering conviction to Hercules beyond the obvious physicality. His emotional range and wounded sensitivity, especially in scenes with the alluring Hebe, showcase the inner conflicts beneath the warrior exterior. Thanks to Lutz’s strong lead performance, The Legend of Hercules not only delivers surface-level thrills, but effective human drama as well.

8 Hercules In New York (1969)

Starring Arnold Schwarzenegger as Hercules

Decades before Arnold Schwarzenegger played strong action movie characters, he was a 22-year-old making his film debut as the shy, but strong son of Zeus in 1969’s Hercules in New York. While silly and campy, the irreverent fish-out-of-water comedy showcases Schwarzenegger’s earnest charm and knack for deadpan humor as Hercules navigates modern Manhattan. Turning feats of strength into mundane struggles with bank accounts and boxing managers allows Schwarzenegger to flex his talents beyond sheer brawn. As Hercules embraces his destiny, the first spark of the imposing megastar-to-be becomes visible within the novice performer, making this a fun and unique take on the classic character.

7 The Loves Of Hercules (1960)

Starring Mickey Hargitay as Hercules

Among the spectacular action movies of its era, The Loves of Hercules distinguishes itself through Mickey Hargitay’s compassionate portrayal as the mythical hero. Though packed with the requisite displays of daring deeds, the film finds its most compelling moments in Hargitay’s emotional longing as Hercules tries to win his forbidden love. It is the level of sensitivity that makes this movie one of the best Hercules depictions. Just as powerfully-built as genre stars like Steve Reeves, Hargitay also projects genuine sensitivity and vulnerability that bring depth beyond one-note confident heroes. His capacity for tenderness and admissions of weakness in pursuing his bride make his Hercules engaging and relatable.

6 Hercules In The Haunted World (1961)

Starring Reg Park as Hercules

Reg Park embodies the perfect balance of brawn and bravery in Mario Bava’s 1961 fantasy epic Hercules in the Haunted World. As he traverses sinister realms to rescue his lost love, Park projects determination that is layered with glints of mortal doubt. His imposing build effortlessly conveys the physical capacity to display great strength, yet close-ups that expose his strain and anguish are a reminder of his mortality. Equally convincing whether he is battling supernatural beasts or pleading with Hades, Park captures Hercules’ dual essence. This balanced performance remains a definitive portrait of Hercules; mighty and touchingly human.

5 Hercules Unchained (1959)

Starring Steve Reeves as Hercules

No actor embodied the chiseled warrior image of Hercules quite like Steve Reeves. Starring in multiple muscleman epics of the 1950s, his physique, charisma and air of unwavering virtue defined the hero for generations. These quintessential qualities shine throughout 1959’s Hercules Unchained as Reeves charges into lava pits, topples colossal columns and battles giants with godlike confidence. Though not as strong as his first Hercules film, Reeves’ screen presence makes this sequel a standout among other films featuring the classic character. Hercules Unchained sees Reeves cementing his status as the undisputed cinematic Hercules for his strength, mythic looks and dignity.

4 Jason And The Argonauts (1963)

Starring Nigel Green as Hercules

Despite Hercules playing a supporting role, Jason and the Argonauts endures as one of the most iconic adventures of the iconic hero on film. When Nigel Green’s wisecracking Hercules joins Jason’s quest for the Golden Fleece, his commanding screen presence electrifies the frame. During the climactic skeleton battle, Hercules single-handedly rallies the men while wielding ship masts as weapons with supernatural might. This sequence stands out as the definitive depiction of Hercules’ godly power balancing his jovial human bravado. Green cements Hercules as eternally powerful and full of life, embracing the core of his mythic appeal that is magnificently captured on film.

3 Hercules (2014)

Starring Dwayne Johnson as Hercules

What makes the 2014 Hercules film stand apart is its truthful reveal of the hero’s hidden weaknesses behind his mythical hype. While packed with lavish action sequences pitting Hercules against supernatural monsters, director Brett Ratner uses these as exaggerated rumors that mask Hercules’ humanity. Unlike other films glorifying his legend, this Hercules deconstructs his champion image to expose a damaged mortal bearing grief, doubt and scars. Dwayne Johnson leverages intimate dialogue and vulnerable expressions to powerfully convey Hercules’ emotional complexity beneath established iconography. By spotlighting his burden and vulnerability, the film presents a uniquely insightful, behind-the-scenes look at the frequently sensationalized hero.

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2 Hercules (1958)

Starring Steve Reeves as Hercules

The 1958 film Hercules stands as a landmark entry in the hero’s Hollywood legacy for its grand depiction of his mythical exploits. Charging through ancient lands with confidence, Steve Reeves embodies a supreme vision of the powerful warrior. More than prior films, director Pietro Francisci maximizes the fantastical elements of Hercules’ legends into incredible onscreen moments, bolstered by Reeves’ dominating presence. This movie set the template for countless Hercules epics to follow. Every glimpse of Reeves’ stern determination and tense clashes echo through endless adaptations. Because of its bold, exhilarating style and tone, the film remains the definitive genesis of Hercules’ cinematic iconography.

1 Hercules (1997)

Starring Roger Bart as the voice of Hercules

No Hercules film before or since has better captured the spirit of the mythic champion like Disney’s 1997 animated musical. From the funniest Hercules quotes to vibrant action sequences, the film’s heart is in the relatable mortal qualities behind Hercules’ godly gifts. With self-doubt and struggle supplementing his destined greatness, this Hercules represents the most dimensionally authentic on screen. The masterful animation vividly renders godly wonders, as well as vulnerability and warmth in familiar coming-of-age motifs. By presenting Hercules as the most endearing depiction of the legend to date, Disney delivers the most lovingly crafted version of Hercules.