Hercules

Hercules

Year: 1958

Runtime: 99 mins

Language: Italian

Director: Pietro Francisci

AdventureFantasyEpic heroesEpic history and literatureFantasy adventure heroism and swordplay

In a blend of mythic tales, demigod Hercules reaches Iolcus to tutor Iphitus, son of King Pelias. He instantly falls for the king’s beautiful daughter Iole, but must first prove himself through a series of heroic quests. Along the way he allies with Jason, the rightful heir, and joins the famed Argonaut expedition.

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Timeline & Setting – Hercules (1958)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Hercules (1958). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The tale unfolds in a mythic, ancient Greece–inspired era filled with prophecies and heroic trials. It blends quests, beasts, and royal politics across lands and seas. The time is defined by legendary deeds rather than precise historical dates.

Location

Thebes, Iolcus, Colchis

The action unfolds in ancient Greek locales such as Thebes, Iolcus, and the distant Colchis. These places anchor the epic quest for the Golden Fleece and set up royal intrigue in Iolcus. The environments span royal courts, rugged terrains, and perilous seas, underscoring the mythic scale of the story.

🏛️ Ancient setting ⚔️ Mythic journey

Last Updated: October 04, 2025 at 19:08

Main Characters – Hercules (1958)

Meet the key characters of Hercules (1958), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Hercules (Ercole) – Steve Reeves

A legendary demigod renowned for immense strength and a sense of justice. He saves Iole when her chariot loses control and joins Jason on the voyage to Iolcus. Throughout the journey, he demonstrates bravery and resilience, ultimately breaking free from captivity and aiding the quest with his formidable power.

💪 Strength 🛡️ Valor

Jason – Fabrizio Mioni

A bold, resourceful adventurer entwined with the royal lineage and the quest for the Golden Fleece. He travels with Hercules and ultimately secures the fleece, discovering a blood-written condemnation of Pelias on its back. His actions drive the political turn in Iolcus and secure the throne for himself.

🗺️ Adventurer 🗡️ Cunning

Iole – Sylva Koscina

Princess of Iolcus and daughter of Pelias, she embodies both royal concern and personal loyalty. Iole defends her father's reputation against accusations and becomes emotionally entangled in the danger surrounding the throne. She helps reveal the fleece’s condemning inscription and the truth behind Pelias's motives.

👑 Princess 🛡️ Protector

Pelias – Ivo Garrani

King of Iolcus whose fear of losing power drives manipulation and suspicion. He blames Hercules for unrest and schemes to secure his throne, even as the fleece carries a condemnation of his rule. Pelias's downfall comes as the truth about his deeds is exposed and the throne is challenged.

👑 King 🗡️ Manipulator

Chirone – Afro Poli

Captain of the escort and a trusted friend and teacher to Hercules. His past quarrel with Aeson adds to the tension of royal politics. He is gored by the Cretan Bull during the journey, and his last wish is that Jason becomes king, though he withholds details about Jason's father’s killer.

⚔️ Captain 🩹 Mentor

Eurysteus – Arturo Dominici

King who assigns the perilous quest to recover the Golden Fleece, challenging the heroes with a life-or-death test. He remains a figure of authority and manipulation, steering the expedition’s purpose. His role catalyzes the convergence of prophecy, power, and pursuit.

👑 Authority 🐉 Quest

Last Updated: October 04, 2025 at 19:08

Major Themes – Hercules (1958)

Explore the central themes of Hercules (1958), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🔮 Destiny

Prophecies and omens drive the plot, notably the sandal-related warning that shapes who must fear or challenge authority. Characters must interpret signs and decide between personal desire and duty. The journey tests whether fate dictates action or if choices can alter a prophesied path.

⚔️ Heroism

Hercules and Jason embody strength and courage as they face beasts, imprisonment, and battles. Their alliance is tested by deception and danger, yet their acts of bravery push the quest forward. The narrative frames heroism as both personal valor and commitment to companions.

👑 Power & Rule

Pelias' paranoia and desire to hold the throne drive much of the political maneuvering. The pursuit and fate of the fleece reveal corruption and the costs of tyranny. The resolution redefines who holds legitimacy and commands Iolcus.

Last Updated: October 04, 2025 at 19:08

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Hercules Summary

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Hercules Summary

Hercules Timeline

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Hercules Timeline

More About Hercules

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More About Hercules

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Hercules (1958) Plot Summary & Movie Recap

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Hercules (1958) Spoiler-Free Summary & Key Flow