The most famous Greek mythology movies ever

The most famous Greek mythology movies ever

Photo: Columbia Pictures Corporation

On the whole, Greek mythology-themed products generally appeal to a mass audience. Of course, Disney movies and action releases tend to do well also, but the combination of fantasy elements and religion in the Greek mythology genre also tends to register huge success. After all, who doesn’t enjoy watching gods with human-like tendencies and monsters living together?

Fans of Greek mythology certainly haven’t been short on options over the years either. These types of movies excite audiences and provide inspiration for a range of other productions. The Greek mythology genre stretches far beyond the movie world, too, with musicians donning God-like costumes in music videos over the years and gamers tucking into popular casino games like Age of the Gods. It’s in movies where this particular genre really comes to life, though, with a range of iconic Greek mythology movies being released over the years. Let’s take a look at some of the best of them below.

Hercules (1997)

An animated musical movie that was produced by Walt Disney and inspired by the mythical Greek hero, Hercules was loosely based on the 12 labours of Hercules and provided junior audiences with a fun and light-hearted look into ancient Greek society. The movie, which was released in 1997, received plaudits for its visuals, music and humour in particular, with Danny DeVito standing out overall.

Jason And The Argonauts (1963)

We couldn’t really leave out Jason And The Argonauts, could we? A classic go-to movie for lovers of Greek mythology, this 1963 masterpiece is filled with creatures from the ancient Greek world, with many of the characters offering fun and entertainment alongside the seriousness the movie deserves as Jason aims to locate the magical Golden Fleece with a few of Greece’s best warriors.

Minotaur (2006)

A movie that essentially retells the story of the famous Greek myth, Minotaur is a brutal watch compared to the aforementioned Hercules, for example. Aimed at older audiences and starring Tom Hardy, the villagers need to feed the beast that they’ve imprisoned in an underground labyrinth every few years, with humans being the only thing suitable. Rather alarmingly for Tom Hardy’s character, Theo, his partner is on the menu, resulting in him having to save her from the deadly Minotaur.

Wonder Woman (2017)

Based on William Moulton Marston’s animation, Wonder Woman is a DC classic which doesn’t necessarily champion Greek mythology throughout but it certainly provides a few nods towards it. Featuring warriors and the like, the movie follows the story of Diana, a princess of the Amazons who has some of the characteristics of the legendary female warriors in Greek mythology.

Photo : MGM

Clash Of The Titans (1981)

An adventure story, Clash Of The Titans certainly presented one of the most accurate portrayals of gods and goddesses in movies. With most of the plaudits going to highly talented animator and special effects creator Ray Harryhausen, the movie features everything, from epic battles to emotional tragedy.

Immortals (2011)

Featuring graphic violence and some truly memorable visuals, Immortals doesn’t exactly nail its Greek mythology aspect but it’s certainly present throughout the movie. With an engaging storyline and a rather dark style of cinematography, Immortals is an engaging release that deserves a mention.

Οh Brother, Where Art Thou? (2000)

Released in 2000, Οh Brother, Where Art Thou? is about three escaped prisoners on their hunt for hidden treasure. Based on Homer’s Odyssey, along their journey, the escaped convicts are faced with a selection of trials and tribulations in this Coen brothers masterpiece.

Other Greek mythology movies worth mentioning include 300 (2007), Troy (2004), Wrath Of The Titans (2012), and Hercules In New York (1970).

Published on 4 March 2022
Last update : 4 March 2022

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