Hercules und das Amazonenheer

I rewatched this after remembering it from my childhood and I loved it. Hercules and Iolaus are total bosses, strolling through the world without a single care, kicking asses, men admiring them and women falling for them. Usually I despise the strong powerful female garbage they cram into every modern movie, but back then this was at least portrayed as a ridiculous caricature in the form of the Amazons. The movie basically preaches a positive message of unity between the sexes, instead of division.

I have to laugh when I hear someone complain about the fact that the costumes are not "historically accurate." This is a tale of Herecles, for gods sake. No one was there! They could have all been naked.

The dialog is certainly misogynistic. It was pretty pitiful writing, but they made more than one dig about women. Apparently, like doctors introducing porn to make it seem legitimate, they feel using these tired clichés serve a greater purpose.

Anthony Quinn played Herecles' father, Zeus, and was the most interesting character in the movie.

Herecles managed to have an imaginative response to the women as they sought to rape and pillage.

Hercules (Kevin Sorbo) returns home to visit his mother Alcmene (Jennifer Ludlam) and to the wedding of his best friend Iolaus (Michael Hurst). Out of the blue, the villager Pithus (Lloyd Scott) arrives asking for help to Hercules to defeat monsters that are attacking his distant village. Hercules travels with Iolaus to fight the monsters and soon they learn that they are indeed Amazons controlled by the evil Hera.

"Hercules and the Amazon Women" (1994) is still a delightful adventure after almost thirty years. Yesterday I saw this entertaining film again, which is based on mythological gods and demigods, and it has not aged. Even the special effects are still good for a TV movie. Kevin Sorbo is excellent in this role. Unfortunately, these Hercules' films have been only released on VHS in Brazil. My vote is seven.

Title (Brazil): "Hércules e as Amazonas" ("Hercules and the Amazons")

This is the first pilot TV movie that jump-started the "Hercules: The Legendary Journeys" TV series, which eventually led to its successful series spin-off, "Xena: Warrior Princess." Filmed in New Zealand and set in ancient Greece with an emphasis on Greek mythology, Hercules (Kevin Sorbo) and his sidekick Iolaus (Michael Hurst) are called upon my villagers to deal with a group of "monsters" that have been infiltrating their village. Turns out, the monsters are Amazon women under the evil influence of Hera, Queen of the Gods.

The plot of the movie goes at a fairly fast pace, putting much emphasis on Hera's influence over the aggressive and man-hating Amazon women; it is compelling to see how Hercules deals with the warrior women and his evil stepmother. The New Zealand countryside setting is refreshing and the costumes are colorful and vibrantly done. The music score by Joseph LoDuca is very upbeat and appealing and the acting is pretty spot-on.

I especially enjoyed seeing Touched by an Angel star Roma Downey in an out-of-character role - turning from the gentle, benevolent angel Monica to playing the aggressive and sinister Amazon queen Hippolyta in this movie. She did a great job and did have some touching chemistry with Sorbo's Hercules character.

A couple of things that this film lacked, though, was Hercules' power and action; he was portrayed as somewhat weak in the movie. And, for being the first TV movie to proceed two successful TV series, a better introduction into the world of Hercules and the Greek Gods was needed. I would have also preferred a first pilot TV movie concentrated on just Hercules and his origins, rather than the story we have here.

Other than that, this is not a bad TV movie. You'll get some neat action and adventures, but more scenes showcasing Hercules' origin and powers would have been preferred.

Grade B-

Hercules and the Amazon Women is an entertaining and enjoyable film that brings Greek mythology to life in a fun and lighthearted way. Starring Kevin Sorbo as the legendary hero Hercules, the movie takes us on an adventure filled with action, romance, and mythical creatures.

The film's portrayal of the Amazon women is particularly intriguing, showcasing their strength and independence while also exploring the complexities of their society. The chemistry between Sorbo and the talented cast adds depth to the story, making the characters relatable and engaging.

While the movie may not have the most groundbreaking special effects or the most intricate plot, it delivers solid entertainment value. It's a great option for fans of mythology and those looking for a light-hearted adventure. Overall, Hercules and the Amazon Women is a decent watch that provides an enjoyable escape into the world of Greek mythology.