Hercules (1958 movie)
It opened in 175 theatres alone in the New York City area. Hercules became a big hit as a result, and Steve Reeves became a big star. Hercules paved the way for dozens of flicks starring oily bodybuilders as mythological heroes battling monsters, despots, and evil queens.  The movie had a sequel called Hercules Unchained. It also starred Reeves.