Hercules
| 1997Directed by: Ron Clements, John Musker
Main Plot
Hercules follows the journey of the titular character, the son of Zeus, who is kidnapped as a baby by Hades, the god of the Underworld. Hades plans to overthrow Zeus and take control of Mount Olympus. Hercules, raised as a mortal on Earth, struggles to fit in and discover his true identity. As he grows up, he learns about his divine heritage and seeks to reclaim his place among the gods. To prove himself as a true hero, Hercules embarks on a series of adventures, facing various challenges and mythical creatures. Along the way, he forms friendships and develops a romantic relationship with Megara, a strong-willed woman with her own troubled past. Hercules must confront Hades' schemes and ultimately prove his worthiness to return to Olympus, all while discovering the true meaning of heroism and self-acceptance.
Characters
- Tate Donovan voices Hercules, the protagonist who embarks on a journey to become a true hero and reclaim his place among the gods.
- Susan Egan voices Megara, a sarcastic and independent woman who initially works for Hades but ultimately helps the protagonist, falling in love and aiding in his heroic journey.
- James Woods voices Hades, the god of the Underworld, who schemes to overthrow Zeus and take over Mount Olympus by defeating the protagonist.
Ending Explained
In the ending of Hercules, the titular character confronts the final challenge of proving himself as a true hero. After a series of trials and tribulations, he faces off against Hades, who has unleashed the monstrous Titans to wreak havoc on Mount Olympus and the mortal world. Hercules, with the support of his friends and newfound strength, battles the Titans, showcasing his growth and determination. The climax occurs when Hercules realizes that true heroism is not just about strength but also about sacrifice. He chooses to save Megara, the woman he loves, instead of pursuing personal glory. This selfless act allows him to tap into his true potential, ultimately leading to his victory over Hades and the Titans. By saving Meg, he proves that love and compassion are the hallmarks of a true hero. In the resolution, Hercules is offered a place among the gods on Mount Olympus, but he chooses to remain on Earth with Meg, embracing his humanity. This decision reinforces the film's central theme that heroism is defined by one's actions and choices rather than divine lineage. The ending ties together the narrative threads of love, sacrifice, and the true meaning of strength, culminating in a heartfelt conclusion.