Ah, 1994. A time when the gods seemingly walked among us… or at least, graced our CRT television screens in syndicated glory. Before Kevin Sorbo became the definitive small-screen Hercules for a generation, carving out six seasons of legendary journeys, there was the spark: Hercules and the Amazon Women. This wasn't a blockbuster epic hitting the multiplex; it was part of the "Action Pack," a bold experiment dropping movie-length pilots onto our TVs, hoping one would catch fire. And catch fire, this one did. Seeing Anthony Quinn, a true titan of cinema, appear as Zeus in the opening moments was certainly a head-turner back then – a signal that maybe, just maybe, this wasn't going to be your average TV movie fodder.
### Before the Legend, There Was the Pilot
Let's set the scene. This initial outing finds Hercules yearning for the quiet life, dreaming of settling down with his wife Deianeira and kids. But the gods, particularly his meddling father Zeus (Anthony Quinn, lending an almost surreal level of gravitas), have other plans. A village is being terrorized by unseen beasts, and only men are disappearing. Duty calls, and Herc, accompanied by his pal Iolaus (initially played by a different actor, with the familiar Michael Hurst cleverly appearing in other roles here – more on that later!), sets off. Their quest leads them to a village populated entirely by women, the titular Amazons, led by the formidable Queen Hippolyta (Roma Downey, showcasing a very different kind of strength than her later beloved angelic role). What unfolds is a classic slice of 90s fantasy adventure, blending action, a bit of romance, and that signature blend of earnestness and slight camp that producers Sam Raimi and Rob Tapert (Evil Dead, later Xena: Warrior Princess) were mastering. Filmed amidst the stunning landscapes of New Zealand, which would soon become synonymous with epic fantasy, the film laid the groundwork for the entire visual style of the series to come.
### A New Kind of Hero is Born
The weight of Hercules rests squarely on the broad shoulders of Kevin Sorbo. Stepping into sandals previously filled by bodybuilders like Steve Reeves and Lou Ferrigno, Sorbo offered something different. Less stoic muscleman, more charismatic adventurer with a ready smile and a knack for quippy remarks amidst the monster-mashing. This wasn't the brooding demigod of ancient myth, but a relatable hero, albeit one who could punch a cyclops into next week. Hercules and the Amazon Women was Sorbo's star-making vehicle, establishing the persona that would define the character for years. He brought a lighter touch, a certain California cool that somehow worked amidst the swords and sorcery. You could believe this Herc would crack a joke after dispatching a foe, and that accessibility was key to the show's eventual syndicated success. I distinctly remember watching this and thinking, "Okay, this Hercules is actually kind of fun."
### Gods, Queens, and Double Duty
Beyond Sorbo's debut, the casting holds some fascinating gems. Anthony Quinn as Zeus is, frankly, delightful. Whether he's booming commands from the heavens or offering slightly cryptic advice, his presence elevates the proceedings immensely. It felt like stunt casting then, and it still feels a bit like it now, but what glorious stunt casting it was! Then there's Roma Downey as Hippolyta. Seeing her here, fierce and commanding as the Amazon Queen just before she became Monica on Touched by an Angel (which premiered the same year!), is a fantastic bit of screen history. She brings a regal presence and holds her own against Sorbo's Herc.
And for the eagle-eyed viewer, there’s a fantastic piece of trivia: Michael Hurst, who would become the iconic Iolaus for the entire run of the series, actually appears in this movie playing multiple other parts, including the ferryman Charon and providing the physical performance for the Centaur Nessus. It’s a testament to his versatility and a fun "before they were famous" moment baked right into the pilot. The dynamic between Herc and the Amazons, exploring themes of gender roles (albeit through a distinctly 90s lens), adds a layer beyond simple monster-slaying.
### That Action Pack Charm
Directed by TV veteran Bill L. Norton, the film absolutely embodies the mid-90s made-for-TV fantasy aesthetic. The practical effects, like the creature menacing the initial village, have a certain tangible charm that CGI often lacks, even if they look a bit rubbery today. The fight choreography is energetic, leaning into the slightly exaggerated style that Raimi and Tapert productions favoured – plenty of flying kicks, dramatic clashes, and Herc using his environment (and sheer strength) to overcome odds. Joseph LoDuca’s musical score immediately establishes the heroic, slightly mythic themes that would become instantly recognizable to fans of both Hercules and Xena. Yes, some of the dialogue might feel a tad on-the-nose now, and the plot follows familiar beats, but it's delivered with such earnest conviction that it’s hard not to get swept along for the ride. It’s comfort food television, designed to entertain on a Saturday afternoon, and it succeeds admirably.
### The Spark That Ignited a Phenomenon
While perhaps not a cinematic masterpiece in isolation, Hercules and the Amazon Women is undeniably important. It was the test case, the proof of concept that convinced Universal Television to launch Hercules: The Legendary Journeys into full series production. That series became a global phenomenon, a staple of syndicated television that charmed audiences with its mix of action, humor, mythology, and heart. It paved the way for Xena: Warrior Princess, creating a shared universe that dominated the fantasy TV landscape for the latter half of the 90s. For many of us who spent hours glued to these shows, this movie is genesis – the slightly rough-around-the-edges, but utterly essential, beginning.
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VHS Heaven Rating: 7/10
Justification: While the production values scream "90s TV movie" and some elements feel dated, Hercules and the Amazon Women delivers exactly what it promises: a fun, action-packed mythological romp. It successfully launched Kevin Sorbo's iconic portrayal, features surprising turns from Anthony Quinn and Roma Downey, and served as the crucial pilot for a beloved series. Its earnest charm, energetic action, and foundational role in 90s fantasy television earn it a solid score, acknowledging its limitations while celebrating its nostalgic appeal and historical significance within the Hercules saga.
Final Thought: This tape might not boast Olympian production values, but slipping it into the VCR feels like unearthing the cornerstone of a legendary journey – a charmingly adventurous start to a beloved 90s phenomenon.