Good Umbrella Release
"Fun sort-of parody, saw this on sale on the website and though at that price point, quality wouldn't be as concerning, but this ended up being a fun time! Umbrella has a winner here!"
This special limited edition spot gloss and embossed slipcover (designed by Robert Sammelin) is limited to 2,000 units and is only available on our website and at select indie retailers. Absolutely no major retailers will be stocking them.
Umbrella Entertainment has been a 100% Australian-owned and operated distributor for over 20 years. Their vast home entertainment catalogue features an extensive range of Australian classic, cult and exploitation films restored under the eyes of the original filmmakers. All sourced from national archives, underground collectors and local basements.
Hercules Returns is the story of Brad McBain (David Argue, Razorback), a frustrated employee of Australia’s largest cinema chain. Brad decides to quite his job and sets about re-opening the Picture Palace, a disused cinema in the Melbourne suburb of St Kilda, to show classic old films.An act of the sabotage on the opening night sees their first film, the 1964 Italian film Samson and His Mighty Challenge, swapped out for a non-subtitled print. As a desperate measure, Brad rallies his projectionist Sprocket (Bruce Spence, Mad Max II) and publicist Lisa (Mary Coustas, TVs Acropolis Now) to improvise voice-overs for the entire film, with hilarious results, to avert disaster.
The North American premiere of Umbrellas 2023 restoration of the original 35mm materials. Also includes the english dub of the original Italian film 'Samson and His Mighty Challenge'.
Starting off in the late 80s as a live comedy show from the Melbourne troupe Double Take, re-voicing B-grade masterpieces such as Astrozombies and Gene Autry, Hercules Returns is the screen adaptation of the popular show.
Cinematographer David Parker (Malcolm) makes his directorial debut, with a screenplay by original Double Take star Des Mangan, also known for his curation of Cult Movies on SBS Australia, and featuring the voice talents of the original Double Take team.
Move over Mystery Science Theatre, this classic riff from the Double Take team will have you in stitches!
directed by: David Parker
starring: Bruce Spence; David Argue; Mary Coustas; Michael Carman
1992 / 72 min / 1.77:1 / English DTS-HD MA 2.0
Additional info:
Overall rating: 4.5277777 / 5 from 72 reviews.
Hercules Returns is a limited edition Blu-ray featuring a humorous riff on the 1964 Italian film 'Samson and His Mighty Challenge'. Customers appreciate the clever humor and the enjoyable MSTing experience. The film includes an English dub, audio commentary, and various bonus features.
Review topics: ["quality","looks","film","movie","comedy","humor","dialogue","fun","flick","blu-ray","camp","release","extras","slipcover","wit","energy","points","voice","gem","dubbing","return","laughs","fan"].
"Fun sort-of parody, saw this on sale on the website and though at that price point, quality wouldn't be as concerning, but this ended up being a fun time! Umbrella has a winner here!"
"Hercules Returns is a hilarious cult comedy that delivers constant laughs through its clever dubbing and rapid-fire jokes, making it a joy for fans of offbeat humor. The film fully embraces its campy premise, turning an old Italian sword-and-sandal epic into an endlessly entertaining parody without ever taking itself seriously. Vinegar Syndrome's restoration looks terrific, with a sharp, colorful presentation that gives the source material far more life than it has ever had on home video. It's an easy recommendation for anyone who appreciates cult comedies and wants to experience one of the most inventive spoofs of its era."
"Glad I picked this gem up on sale. If you like MST 3000 you'll have a good time with this film."
"I've likely already reviewed this - I have bought a second copy as a present for my brother. Back in the day this was a household favourite (he actually bought the Tartan VHS tape) and we watched it regularly. I still find it hilarious, although on a film night some people weren't so impressed. Maybe you've got to be a little childish to enjoy the humour, but that's fine by me. It's just a bit of silly fun, Aussie style!"
"great release. Though if the rumours are true about Bruce Spence in Bathurst I don't think I can watch it again."
"To me, this movie has the same feel as Kung Pow. Except, you get to see the behind the scenes work and those characters go the extra mile! I love that they included the original film dubbed in English to experience what was actually said. It’s a silly and fun comedy"
"Many may find this hilarious but wasn’t for me."
"Fun flick from down under and worth a watch by any fans of movie 'riffing' The wrap-around segments are a bit hairy, but the whole exercise is quality entertainment and exceptionally fun. Worth a watch by any fans of off-beat Aussie filmmaking!"
"Another surprise blindbuying a movie and what a great surprise it was. Hercules Returns is funny from beginning to end. The packaging and extras are top notch and for the price of admission you should also get it. You won't be disappointed!!"
"Fun movie and worth picking up while it is so cheap."
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