If you had to see a movie by Renny Harlin or Brett Ratner, which would you choose?  Audiences will have to face that question (because in my Saw-like example, you must choose) because Ratner's Hercules will now be facing competition from Harlin's Hercules 3D.  Although Harlin hasn't has a hit film since the Clinton Administration, Millennium has tasked the director to helm a $70 million tentpole based on the Greek demigod.  THR reports that preproduction has already begun, casting is expected to begin in the next few weeks, and cameras should be rolling by May so the film can make a March 2014 release date.  The rush will get Hercules 3D to theaters before Ratner's film, which opens August 8, 2014.

Hit the jump for more.

As we previously reported, Ratner's film is based on Steve Moore’s graphic novel Hercules: The Thracian Wars, and is a dark take on the popular Grecian character.  In the comic, Hercules is "a mercenary who turned his back on the gods following the loss of his family, 'finding solace only in battle.'"  As for Harlin's take, the director tells THR, "It's not a comic book, cartoony fantasy thing.  It's closer to Gladiator than flying horses."

Booo, flying horses.  Those aren't cool at all.  I'd rather watch Harlin try to ape Gladiator.

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