Disney’s Animated Movie Hercules: A Comedic Approach to Greek Mythology
Disney’s animated movie Hercules, released in 1997, is a unique blend of classic storytelling, bold animation, and Broadway-style musical numbers. The film takes creative liberties with Greek mythology, adopting a comedic tone and whimsical storytelling approach. Alan Menken, who composed the music for The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, and Aladdin, created the songs in Hercules, which tell the story in a fun, stylized way.
The film follows the journey of Hercules, the son of Zeus, as he embarks on a quest to prove himself a true hero after being turned mortal by Hades. The story is filled with modern references, from the opening narration by the Muses, styled as a contemporary gospel choir, to the main characters’ deliberate anachronisms. These references make the film a fun re-watch, filled with contemporary pop culture Easter eggs.
One notable example of this comedic approach is the training montage, set to the song “One Last Shot,” where Hercules is trained by Philoctetes, a.k.a. Phil, a crotchety satyr. The montage pays homage to a classic shot from another training montage: The Karate Kid. The “crane kick” from The Karate Kid is recreated, reinforcing Hercules’ journey as an underdog on a path of physical and spiritual transformation.
Phil’s character is also notable for his comedic relief, as he describes Thebes as the “Grecian N…,” leaving the audience to fill in the blanks. The film’s blend of mythology and animation makes it a unique and entertaining take on Greek mythology.
In conclusion, Disney’s Hercules is a fun and stylized adaptation of Greek mythology, with a comedic approach and modern references that make it a relatable and enjoyable film for audiences of all ages.
