HERCULES (1997) by MUHAMMAD LUQMAN BIN MOHD RADZI

Movie Review

luqmanradzi15 — 2025-02-24 09:17:01 UTC

HERCULES (1997)

(A) Why the movie has been chosen

luqmanradzi15 — 2025-02-24 09:20:42 UTC

Disney’s Hercules (1997) is an animated film that showcases themes of heroism, perseverance, and self-discovery. This movie has been chosen because it presents a compelling journey of leadership development, highlighting how a young and uncertain protagonist grows into a confident and inspiring leader. The film effectively portrays leadership qualities such as courage, resilience, and the ability to influence others through strong interpersonal skills.

(B) Brief Summary

luqmanradzi15 — 2025-02-24 09:24:42 UTC

In the story follows Hercules, the son of Zeus, who is stripped of his godhood as a baby and raised as a mortal. As he grows up, he struggles to fit in due to his immense strength. To reclaim his place on Mount Olympus, Hercules embarks on a journey to become a true hero, guided by the retired trainer of heroes, Philoctetes ("Phil"). Along the way, he faces numerous challenges, including the manipulations of Hades, the god of the underworld. Ultimately, Hercules learns that true heroism is about self-sacrifice and character rather than physical strength.

(C) Leadership Role in the Film

luqmanradzi15 — 2025-02-24 09:27:19 UTC

The main character demonstrating leadership is Hercules. He acquires his leadership role through perseverance, self-improvement, and a strong moral compass. Initially, he seeks fame and recognition, but over time, he learns that being a true leader means putting others before oneself. His leadership is characterized by his dedication to helping people, his ability to inspire, and his unwavering commitment to doing the right thing.

(D) Central Issue/Goal

luqmanradzi15 — 2025-02-24 09:29:41 UTC

Hercules’ central issue is proving himself worthy of being a hero. He initially believes that heroism is defined by strength and achievements, but as the story progresses, he realizes that true leadership and heroism come from self-sacrifice and protecting others. His ultimate test comes when he willingly gives up his own life to save Megara, demonstrating true heroism and leadership

(F) INTERPERSONAL SKILLS

luqmanradzi15 — 2025-02-24 09:30:32 UTC

(E) Leadership Traits

luqmanradzi15 — 2025-02-24 09:31:40 UTC

(G) CONSISTENCY IN LEADERSHIP

luqmanradzi15 — 2025-02-24 09:32:25 UTC

Hercules does not always demonstrate effective leadership. Initially, he seeks fame rather than focusing on helping people, which leads to temporary setbacks. However, his growth throughout the movie allows him to become a truly effective leader.

(H) STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES

luqmanradzi15 — 2025-02-24 09:33:12 UTC

(I) QUOTES & INCIDENTS

luqmanradzi15 — 2025-02-24 09:34:06 UTC

Conclusion

luqmanradzi15 — 2025-02-24 09:35:01 UTC

In conclusion, Hercules teaches valuable lessons on leadership and interpersonal skills. It shows that leadership is not about physical strength or fame but about self-sacrifice, integrity, and the ability to inspire others. These lessons are highly relevant in today’s organizations, where effective leaders must be adaptable, ethical, and capable of motivating their teams.

By watching this movie, I can gain insights into personal development, resilience, and the power of collaboration in leadership.

Ambition and Energy

luqmanradzi15 — 2025-05-29 15:02:43 UTC

Hercules is determined to become a true hero and regain his place among the gods on Mount Olympus. Despite being seen as an outcast with unusual strength, he trains rigorously with Phil (Philoctetes), showing incredible determination and stamina. His ambition fuels his journey to prove himself, and his physical and emotional energy help him face every challenge—from training montages to defeating monsters like the Hydra

Desire to lead

luqmanradzi15 — 2025-05-29 15:04:47 UTC

Hercules consistently shows a willingness to step up and protect others. A notable example is when he volunteers to fight the Hydra to save the citizens of Thebes, even though others are terrified. He doesn’t seek glory in that moment—he sees people in danger and instinctively takes the lead. Later, he sacrifices his life to save Meg, demonstrating the ultimate form of leadership through selflessness and courage.

Self-confidence

luqmanradzi15 — 2025-05-29 15:06:20 UTC

Early in the film, Hercules struggles with feeling like he doesn't belong. But as he trains and starts to understand his strengths, his confidence grows. A key turning point is when he confronts Hades at the end of the movie. Even without his powers, he faces Hades with composure and bravery, showing that his confidence now comes not just from physical strength, but from inner belief in his purpose and values.

luqmanradzi15 — 2025-05-29 15:11:21 UTC

“I’m tired of pretending. I want to go the distance. I want to be where I belong." - Hercules

Rather than being blinded by glory, Hercules reflects on his purpose, a critical trait for a mature leader.

luqmanradzi15 — 2025-05-29 15:12:02 UTC

Hercules faces the Hydra alone, a massive multi-headed beast sent by Hades. Despite being overwhelmed and nearly defeated, he adapts and defeats it. And the movie showcases his bravery and quick thinking show his capacity to lead through direct action.

luqmanradzi15 — 2025-05-29 15:12:39 UTC

"People are gonna get hurt, aren't they? I've gotta do something."
— Hercules, deciding to fight the Hydra
Hercules doesn’t back down when there's a threat. He steps up to protect others, even when he’s unproven and laughed at.

luqmanradzi15 — 2025-05-29 15:30:44 UTC

Communication: When he tells Meg he would "go the distance" for her, it’s an honest and heartfelt moment that shows his ability to communicate emotions and values. He also clearly negotiates with Hades to trade his strength for Meg's safety—showing both emotional intelligence and communication skills under pressure.

luqmanradzi15 — 2025-05-29 15:31:07 UTC

Empathy: Despite being mocked and rejected in Thebes, Hercules remains kind and doesn’t lash out. He later risks everything to save the city and its people—even those who doubted him. He also shows great empathy for Meg, understanding her pain and eventually earning her trust.

luqmanradzi15 — 2025-05-29 15:31:20 UTC

Teamwork: Hercules doesn’t try to be a hero alone—he values help from others and works as part of a team.

Example: He trains with Phil, teams up with Pegasus, and even relies on Meg’s support. He listens to Phil’s advice and trusts Pegasus in battles, showing he understands the value of working with others to achieve a goal.

luqmanradzi15 — 2025-05-29 15:33:32 UTC

Strengths:

Determination and resilience
Strong moral values
Ability to inspire others

luqmanradzi15 — 2025-05-29 15:33:54 UTC

Weaknesses:

Initial naivety about leadership and heroism
Overreliance on external validation
Struggles with self-doubt