Is Hercules Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Hercules is likely a skip if you enjoy Action movies.
It features a runtime of 98 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Hercules Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1983, Hercules emerges as a significant entry in the Action, Adventure, Fantasy domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of Hercules, a semi-divine being, squares off against King Minos, who is attempting to use science to gain power and take over the world. Unlike standard genre fare, Hercules attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Action is often anchored by its ensemble, and Hercules features a noteworthy lineup led by Lou Ferrigno . Supported by the likes of Sybil Danning and Brad Harris , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
In summary, our editorial assessment of Hercules (1983) is negative. With an audience rating of 4.9/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Hercules Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Hercules is a Action, Adventure, Fantasy film that delivers high-octane sequences and adrenaline-pumping confrontations that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Hercules Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Hercules attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to action resolution.
The climactic sequence delivers on the escalating tension, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the action themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Hercules reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Hercules?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Action films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Hercules Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $2.5M |
| Worldwide Gross | $10.7M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Hercules Budget
The estimated production budget for Hercules is $2.5M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
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Full Cast & Crew of Hercules
- Lou Ferrigno – Hercules
- Sybil Danning – Ariadne
- Brad Harris – Augias
- Rossana Podestà – Hera
- Ingrid Anderson – Cassiopea
Top Highlights
Lou FerrignoHercules
Sybil DanningAriadne
Brad HarrisAugias
Rossana PodestàHera
Ingrid AndersonCassiopea
Mirella D'AngeloCirce
William BergerKing Minos
Bobby RhodesKing Xenodama
Gianni GarkoValcheus
Delia BoccardoAthena
Where to Watch Hercules Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
CultpixParents Guide & Age Rating
Hercules is rated PG. Parents should be aware that it contains violence, action sequences. It is generally suitable for all ages.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 4.9/10, and global collection metrics, Hercules stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1983 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hercules movie hit or flop?
Hercules is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 4.9/10 and lower collections.
Is Hercules worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 4.9/10, Hercules may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch Hercules online?
Hercules is currently available for streaming on Cultpix. You can also check for it on platforms like Cultpix depending on your region.
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How Hercules Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Hercules
I suppose the give away is the opening logo from "Cannon" - that usually spoke volumes about what was going to come next - and here, well yep - it is pretty much as poor as expected. This time, hulky Lou Ferrigno picks up the mantle as the demi-god son of Zeus. I don't recall this being one of his twelve labours, but he must join with the powerful sorceress "Circe" (Mirella D'Angelo) to thwart a cunning plan by King Minos (the wooden as any Trojan horse William Berger) to take over the world with his magically imbued - by his personal sorceress "Adriana" (Sybil Danning) - robots. Yes, that's robots...! Not the kind Ray Harryhausen might devise that fly and make cute squeaking sounds; but bad-ass tin beasties that will make him ruler of the world. What also irks our hero, is that Minos plans to sacrifice his girlfriend "Cassiopeia" (Ingrid Anderson) so he has to get a move on before she is toast! The dialogue is dreadful, as are the visual effects - and Ferrigno makes Steve Reeves look like Laurence Olivier. I have watched a load of what is somewhat disparagingly called "Peplum" over the years, and some of it is truly terrible - but I would venture to suggest that this sits comfortably within that group - and nowhere near the top, neither! It is sort of like "Conan" (1982) but without, well just about everything... Not good, sorry.
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This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
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