The Odyssey continues to be a hit with audiences and has sparked spirited debates about history, storytelling, and just how you represent Ancient Greek mythology on film. Fortunately, there are several films ranging from flashy ’80s sword-and-sorcery movies to pulpy Italian fantasies that have adapted Greek myths. Here are three memorable movies based on Greek myths.
[imbd.com]It’s 1981, and we’re at the start of a renaissance of sword and sorcery films. One of the most popular was Clash of the Titans, a colorful concoction of Greek mythology, ginormous monsters, and the terrific stop-motion effects of Ray Harryhausen. Blending different myths, we follow the hero’s journey of Perseus as he and his trusty robot owl rescue a kidnapped princess and slay a series of memorable monsters. Sure, Jason and the Argonauts was a better myth movie, and Harry Hamlin is an odd casting choice (A California dude in an Ancient world feels awkward), but damn if Titans doesn’t build a fleshed-out fantasy world that appeals to my inner child. My favorite bit remains Perseus’ battle with Medusa, which skillfully blends the actors, atmosphere, and one of Harryhausen’s best creatures. ★ ★ ★
[imbd.com]This next one is an Italian mythological horror flick by the legendary Mario Bava. Most of the peplum films I’ve seen are usually the ones on MST3K, but Hercules in the Haunted World sports an eye-popping use of color and a particular type of sensuality you get from these “sword and sandal” flicks. Here, buff buddies Hercules and Theseus venture into the land of the dead to rescue a maiden in distress. Along the way, the two battle rock monsters, punch out a few zombies, and cross a lake of fire. It would all come across as silly and risible if Bava didn’t bring his trademark visual pizazz to the production. Utilizing practical visual effects (it’s amazing what simple smoke and lighting can do for a movie), the movie plays like a Gothic horror version of Flash Gordon. Compelling? Not really. Entertaining? Absolutely. ★ ★ ★
[imbd.com]Over the years, we’ve had many action adventures based on Greek myths, but one of the best is Jason and the Argonauts. Telling the story of a ship packed with mythical heroes on a quest for the Golden Fleece, this movie sports a handsome production and a top-notch score from Bernard Herrmann. However, we all know what distinguishes this film is the terrific stop-motion animation work of Ray Harryhausen. Here, mythical creatures such as Talos, the gigantic man of bronze, a flock of Flying Harpies, and the now-famous battle between Jason and the army of skeletons are rendered with stunning details (even the shields the skeletons carry look intricately designed). Unlike similar movies, the characters don’t just stand back and look at the gigantic stop-motion monsters; the film has them interact and battle with one another. That choice lends a tangible sense of tactility to these beings out of ancient mythology. If you haven’t seen it yet, please do. ★ ★ ★1/2
