Disney has once again decided to develop a live-action remake to one of its animated classics. Except this time, the studio is handing the producing reins to some former Marvel Studios heavyweights, with the Russo Brothers producing a new live-action version of “Hercules.”
According to THR (though first reported by DisInsider), the “Avengers: Endgame” directors are producing a new live-action “Hercules” film that will be written by Dave Callaham. Not much else is known about the new interpretation of the animated classic, other than it definitely won’t be directed by Joe and Anthony Russo. The report isn’t even sure that the film will inherit the musical elements of the original animated film or if it’ll be a complete reimagining, a la the new “Mulan” film. And it’s still way too early to name potential cast members, except you can’t help but wonder if the Russos will draft one of their ‘Avengers’ stars for the lead roles, as they have done with a large number of their recent production efforts. There’s no denying Chris Hemsworth or Chris Evans would be pretty great choices, right?
All we do know is that Dave Callaham has signed on to write the film, and the screenwriter definitely tends to focus on the action side of things. His first real breakout work came with the action film “The Expendables.” From there, he also wrote scripts for last year’s “Zombieland: Double Tap” and upcoming films such as “Wonder Woman 1984,” “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings,” and “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse 2.” So, we’re going to guess that this version of “Hercules” is going to be a bit action-heavy.
Obviously, Disney’s new “Hercules” isn’t going to be anything like the most recent live-action films featuring the mythological character. Back in the mid-2010s, both Kellan Lutz and Dwayne Johnson starred in films about the character. Both clearly were attempts to kickstart franchises focused on the hero. And in both cases, the films were not well received by critics or fans. However, with Disney backing this new live-action treatment, combined with producers such as the Russo Brothers, it’s assumed that the new “Hercules” film will likely be another major hit for the studio.