Why rewatching Hercules was more than nostalgia for me

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I am on a “favorites” journey. I unintentionally started this when I watched the film Uptown Girls.  I really admire Brittany Murphy. Knowing she is gone too soon is so somber but something I reflect on in my own creative journey is that your art will outlive you.

I had never seen the film, and the next day I also watched the movie Pretty Woman. This was another first time favorite too! I am thinking about writing a “favorite” or “comfort” films post next.

So, how does Hercules tie into this? I saw the film probably hundreds of times as a kid on VHS. But I only recently watched the animated treasure as an adult. Not only was this nostalgic… the film was a lot more enjoyable at 24 then at let’s say 4.

Well, of course the film is not accurate.

Disney is infamous for remixing real historical and mythological stories. They also have revamped fairytales at that. (Cinderella anyone?) *shivers* I went to an advanced institution for high school and my Freshman summer reading was Edith Hamilton’s Mythology, if you know…. you know. So while I am aware of Megara and Hercules real fate, there is something about this film I am willing to overlook… I even in this re-watch just told myself it’s completely a separate idea versus based on the mythology itself. (Flash Back to World Mythology in College when my Professor said you will fail if you confuse Marvel with Norse Religion).

I understand people who like romance novels now.

I understand Megara, truly. If a “Himbo” like Hercules actively was still after me when he had flocks of maidens chasing him, I too would fall in love and then be in denial, because I certainly am not the one who would admit this! I was telling a friend the fact he knew she worked with Hades and was still willing to give up everything for her… kind of #goals. But then for him to do all this to rejoin his family and decide, “Never mind” to be with her? I had to rewind. All of the film’s snarky jokes from the sarcastic king Hades himself and Megara’s comments on men felt, very 2022 may I add.

The theme of perseverance is more relatable than ever to me.

We all know the entire soundtrack is a bop. But seeing “Zero to Hero” was a motivator. I have recently shared on my podcast I want to change my life in year. This film’s theme of working for the goal, trying your best, and remaining true to oneself really stuck with me because of the phase I am in with my life.

Allegedly there is going to be a live-action film.

As an actor, I am a little hurt at so many projects I love not really having a place for me, it feels like a lose-lose at times. Get a minor role, or face unprecedented judgment for not being the same race as a fictional character. (Specifically because we know Disney’s rendition is not true to Greek Mythology vs a true re-telling of the story of Hercules). I’ll just continue to sing in my car.

The takeaway here, is I need to go to Greece… Joking. (No I am serious.)

If I had $10 for every time someone told me I look exhausted, need a break, or need to go on vacation. I would have a first-class ticket and luxury resort stay covered. Greece is absolutely beautiful. Here in the states I consistently support my favorite local Mediterranean spots. A week… * a MONTH or two in Greece would be a dream. Someone keep note of that when it becomes a reality for me in the future.