Introduction
Disney's Hercules, directed by John Musker and Ron Clements, brought a unique and controversial version of Greek mythology to the big screen in 1997. While the film received positive reviews and built a solid fanbase, it also drew criticism for its visual style and the liberties it took with Greek mythology. One of the most iconic Disney bad guys, Hades, portrayed by James Woods, has been celebrated for his memorable lines and sense of humor. However, a significant plot hole in the movie reveals that Hades was, in fact, really bad at being a villain.
Disney's Baby Hercules drinking the poison
The Plot Hole: Hades' Oversight
Hades, the god of the Underworld, is depicted as a powerful villain in Hercules. His plan to overthrow Zeus and take over Mount Olympus is thwarted when he learns that Hercules, Zeus' son, is destined to interfere and defeat him and the Titans. Hades orders his minions, Pain and Panic, to murder Hercules by feeding him a potion that would strip him of his immortality. However, they fail to give the baby every last drop of the potion, resulting in Hercules being made mortal but retaining his god-like strength.
Hades worried touching his head without flame in Disney's Hercules
Eighteen years later, Hades discovers that Hercules is alive, thanks to Meg, and is furious at Pain and Panic for failing and never informing him of their failure. This oversight by Hades, the god of the Underworld, raises a significant plot hole in the movie. As the overseer of all souls arriving in the Underworld, Hades should have immediately known that Pain and Panic didn't fulfill their plan and that Hercules wasn't killed. Additionally, the death of Hercules would have been a well-known incident among all gods in Mount Olympus and beyond, making it implausible that Hades remained unaware of it.
Hades' Incompetence as a Villain
Hades' reliance on others, particularly Pain and Panic, highlights his incompetence as a Disney villain. Despite being aware of their lack of competence, Hades trusted them and believed their account of the mission to kill Hercules, even in the absence of proof of Hercules' death. This reliance on others ultimately led to Hades' downfall, as he had to resort to other means to deal with Hercules, resulting in his own defeat.
While Hades had some memorable lines and humor in the movie, his incompetence as a Disney villain is evident in his failure to take matters into his own hands. The plot hole not only underscores Hades' ineptitude but also raises questions about the character's portrayal as a powerful god and villain in the film.
