Disney devotees were thrown into a frenzy after rumours that the live-action remake of the 1997 classic Hercules would diverge significantly from the original plot.
Since its announcement, the forthcoming film has been embroiled in controversy over plans to modernise the iconic soundtrack and alter the main character.
The latter issue has caused the most uproar, with sibling producers the Russo Brothers reportedly clashing with Disney over the narrative’s direction. The duo purportedly wanted to spotlight villain Hades, narrating the story from his viewpoint rather than that of the fiery-haired Hercules.
In a 2022 Variety interview, Joe Russo tantalised fans with news that their Hercules rendition, directed by Guy Ritchie, would be “a little bit more experimental in tone, a little bit more experimental in execution,” adding: “I think they’re excited to see what we can all bring to it in a way that isn’t just a reinterpretation of the animated film.”
He also revealed plans to draw inspiration from TikTok, stating: “Audiences today have been trained by TikTok, right? What is their expectation of what that musical looks like and feels like? That can be a lot of fun and help us push the boundaries a little bit on how you execute a modern musical.”
Disney aficionados can finally exhale in relief, as a recent Q&A has quashed the swirling rumours that the upcoming Hercules remake would pivot to spotlight Hades.
Skyler Shuler of The DisInsider addressed the speculation head-on, reports Irish Star. He confirmed that the current vision for the project is to deliver a “faithful adaptation” of the beloved original animation, particularly considering the mixed reactions to the altered ending in the live-action Lilo and Stitch adaptation.
The 1997 classic Hercules raked in $252 million at the box office against its $85 million budget. Helmed by directors Ron Clements and John Musker, it charts the tale of demi-god Hercules (voiced by Tate Donovan), who grows up among mortals after being stolen from Olympus by the nefarious Hades (portrayed by James Woods).
A release date for the live-action Hercules remake is yet to be announced