Hellboy: The Crooked Man is a 2024 American superhero horror film that reimagines the iconic Dark Horse Comics character, Hellboy. Directed by Brian Taylor, the film features Jack Kesy in the titular role, with Jefferson White and Adeline Rudolph supporting. This installment ventures into the eerie landscapes of 1950s Appalachia, where folklore and the supernatural intertwine.
Synopsis
In the 1950s, Hellboy and a novice agent from the Bureau for Paranormal Research and Defense (B.P.R.D.) find themselves stranded in rural Appalachia. They uncover a community haunted by witches and dominated by a demonic figure known as the Crooked Man, who shares a sinister link to Hellboy's past. As they delve deeper, they confront malevolent forces and ancient curses that test their resolve and strength.
Main Cast
Jack Kesy as Hellboy: The half-demon, half-human protagonist working for the B.P.R.D., known for his formidable strength and dry humor.
Jefferson White as Tom Ferrell: A local with a mysterious past who becomes an unexpected ally in the battle against the Crooked Man.
Adeline Rudolph as Bobbie Jo Song: A rookie B.P.R.D. agent accompanying Hellboy on this perilous mission.
Production Insights
Following the 2019 Hellboy reboot, which faced critical and commercial challenges, Millennium Media announced a new adaptation in February 2023. Directed by Brian Taylor, with a screenplay co-written by Mike Mignola and Christopher Golden, the film aims to closely follow Mignola's 2008 comic miniseries, The Crooked Man. Filming took place in Bulgaria from March to May 2023, with a focus on practical effects to capture the atmospheric horror of the source material.
Release and Reception
Hellboy: The Crooked Man premiered in the United States on October 8, 2024, through a limited theatrical release and video-on-demand platforms. The film received mixed reviews; some critics appreciated its adherence to the original comics and horror elements, while others pointed out shortcomings in visual effects and narrative execution. Despite the anticipation, the film's box office performance was modest, reflecting the challenges of revitalizing the franchise.
Conclusion
Hellboy: The Crooked Man seeks to breathe new life into the Hellboy series by embracing its horror roots and delivering a narrative faithful to the original comics. While it garnered a spectrum of reactions, the film offers a fresh perspective on Hellboy's adventures, appealing to both long-standing fans and newcomers.
