If you can smell something, it may not be what The Rock is cooking, it might be his loincloth.

Brett Ratner’s Hercules, starring Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson, hearkens back to the days of old-school Saturday afternoon matinees. It’s a film that wears its heart on its sleeve, delivering exactly what you’d expect: a competently made, undemanding action-adventure with solid special effects, a generous sprinkling of quips, and enough one-liners to keep things lively. And honestly, that’s just fine.

The narrative kicks off with Hercules, the demigod son of Zeus, having already completed his famous twelve labours. However, his life takes a tragic turn when Hera, consumed by jealousy, drives him to madness, leading him to murder his own family. Overcome with guilt, Hercules renounces his divine heritage and chooses to live as a mortal, leading a band of mercenaries. When King Cotys of Thrace (John Hurt) offers Hercules and his team their weight in gold to train his army, the proposition seems straightforward. But as the plot unfolds, it becomes clear that Cotys harbours a darker agenda, forcing Hercules to grapple with his past and decide whether he’ll once again embrace his demigod powers to set things right.

Dwayne Johnson’s charisma anchors the film, and his portrayal of Hercules is both physically commanding and surprisingly nuanced, considering the film’s straightforward nature. But it’s not just Johnson who shines. The supporting cast, including the likes of Ian McShane, Rufus Sewell, Joseph Fiennes, Peter Mullan, and the venerable John Hurt, all deliver performances that elevate the material. Whether they saw this as a chance to indulge in some lighthearted fun or simply an opportunity to earn a quick paycheck, their involvement adds a layer of gravitas and wit to the proceedings. Ian McShane, in particular, stands out, bringing a delightful blend of humour and wisdom to his role as the seer Amphiaraus.

One of the film’s more interesting aspects is its approach to the Hercules myth itself. Rather than leaning into the fantastical elements, Hercules demythologizes its hero, presenting him not as a god-like figure but as a man whose legendary feats have been exaggerated by storytellers. This angle gives the film a slightly subversive edge, poking fun at the idea of hero worship while still delivering the action-packed spectacle audiences crave.

The action sequences, while not groundbreaking, are competently staged and benefit from Johnson’s undeniable physicality. Ratner ensures that the film maintains a brisk pace, never allowing the audience’s attention to wane. However, the film’s use of modern humour, including a well-placed F-bomb, while effective in drawing laughs, feels somewhat out of place in the otherwise family-friendly context.

In the end, Hercules is an enjoyable romp that doesn’t overstay its welcome. It’s the kind of film that knows exactly what it is and delivers on its promises without pretension. For those in search of a fun, straightforward action-adventure with a touch of wit, Hercules is well worth a watch.