⚔️ Step into the world of sword, sandals, and myth with Goliath and the Dragon (1960) — a classic Italian peplum fantasy that blends heroic quests, monstrous creatures, and ancient legends. This colorful action-adventure is a must-watch for fans of retro fantasy cinema and legendary heroes.

📽️ Released in 1960, Goliath and the Dragon (original Italian title: La Vendetta di Ercole, meaning The Revenge of Hercules) was directed by Vittorio Cottafavi and adapted for American audiences with additional scenes, including the spectacular fire-breathing dragon sequence. Starring the muscular Mark Forest as Goliath, this film mixes elements of Hercules mythology with daring cinematic imagination.

🌟 Why This Film Stands Out
During the late 1950s and early 1960s, Italian filmmakers embraced the peplum (sword-and-sandal) genre — epic tales of ancient heroes battling gods, monsters, and tyrants. Goliath and the Dragon stands out for its memorable creature effects, colorful costumes, and adventurous storyline. The U.S. release rebranded the hero as “Goliath” instead of “Hercules” to suit American marketing tastes, but the core is pure heroic fantasy.

📜 Plot Summary
Goliath (Mark Forest), a fearless warrior of ancient Greece, must face deadly trials to rescue his beloved Deianira (Broderick Crawford in the U.S. cut’s narration version, though Deianira is played by Leonora Ruffo in the original Italian cut). She is trapped under a terrible curse, and to save her, Goliath must descend into the underworld itself.

His quest leads him through treacherous challenges:

Battles with fierce warriors who guard the secrets of the gods.

A monstrous three-headed dog, guarding the gates of Hades.

A colossal dragon — a fire-breathing beast standing between Goliath and victory.

Along the way, Goliath’s courage, strength, and cunning are tested against magical forces and treacherous humans alike. Will he survive the trials and break the curse, or will the underworld claim another soul?

🎭 Cast
Mark Forest as Goliath (originally Hercules in Italian version) – the fearless hero with godlike strength.

Broderick Crawford – narrator (U.S. version), adding a dramatic tone to the adaptation.

Leonora Ruffo as Deianira – Goliath’s beloved, trapped by a curse.

Gaby André as Ismene – a mysterious figure aiding Goliath on his quest.

Federico Boido (as Rick Boyd) – supporting role as a warrior.

Raffaella Carrà – early role in her career.
Giuliano Gemma (uncredited) – later became a major Italian star.

🎬 Production Notes
Director: Vittorio Cottafavi

Genre: Peplum / Fantasy / Adventure

Runtime: 1h 08m (U.S. cut)

Language: Originally Italian, dubbed for English release.

Notable Feature: Stop-motion and practical effects for the dragon scene, influenced by Ray Harryhausen’s style.

🏛️ Themes & Appeal
Heroic Mythology: Loosely inspired by Greek myths but adapted for cinematic spectacle.