This film does pretty much what it sets out to do: Be an entertaining summer popcorn film. While the movie comes off overly corny at times, it settles down into a nice series of action scenes. Many of the most eye-popping moments from trailer come and go early on. In fact, the mythological aspects of Hercules are heavily downplayed throughout the film. The plot fairly straightforward and is a bit bland. A nice plot twist late helps out, but the action in the finale could’ve been a little better. The Rock does what he’s expected here. He brings his charm and hulking physique to the role, which makes Hercules both imposing and likable. The rest of the cast is just entertaining enough to fulfill their stereotypical action side-kicks roles. You have your archer, knife thrower, crazy barbarian and old-wise man. None of them are given a chance to let the audience care much about them. This group is made up of lesser known. Of the two bigger stars, Ian Mcshane is a little too over-the-top and Joseph Fiennes doesn’t offer up very much of anything.
**1/2 out of *****