Hercules Television Show

You mean this show was produced by Sam Raimi? The mastermind behind the horror-loving, cheese-flaunting, camera angle-obsessed, wire fu-abusing, low-budget-utilizing, Bruce Campbell-toting, Ted Raimi-killing, Spiderman trilogy-directing machine? Yes.

Sam Raimi used his signature style to make “Hercules: The Legendary Journeys” thoroughly entertaining. The intentionally over-acted, pun-ridden dialogue, extensively choreographed action scenes, fun costumes, and crazy myth-based storylines made the show a delight. The visible enjoyment of the main cast elevated the series to greatness. Everyone, from recurring characters to the main stars, clearly had a blast with every line and action sequence. The producers wisely allowed the actors to ad-lib much of the dialogue and physical gags.

Kevin Sorbo, 90s television’s quintessential straight lead man, perfectly embodied Hercules. He convincingly played the almost sickeningly perfect half-mortal, often showcasing his muscular physique in strategically revealing costumes. Sorbo excelled in the fight scenes and embraced the role with evident enthusiasm.

Bruce Campbell, a Raimi regular, delivered a priceless performance as the smarmy King of Thieves, even directing some of the show’s best episodes. Kevin Smith (not THAT Kevin Smith) shone as Ares, God of War, reveling in over-the-top testosterone and improvised humor. Alexandra Tydings, as Aphrodite, Goddess of Love, played the ditzy blonde to perfection.

Michael Hurst, a renowned New Zealand Shakespearean theater actor, was cast as Hercules’ sidekick, Iolaus, before even Kevin Sorbo. Hurst’s energetic portrayal of Iolaus, combined with his choreography and performance of the fight scenes and stunts, made him a standout. His versatility allowed him to play around 12 different characters throughout the series, showcasing his range beyond the comedic sidekick.

The cheesy graphics, a product of the time and budget, didn’t detract from the show’s charm. In fact, the same company responsible for those graphics went on to produce the award-winning visuals for Lord of the Rings.

For fans of Sam Raimi’s unique directing style, entertaining fight sequences, or actors having way too much fun, “Hercules: The Legendary Journeys” is a must-see. Don’t take it seriously; it’s meant to be campy and enjoyable.