Hellboy: The Crooked Man is a 2024 American superhero horror film that reboots the Hellboy franchise, bringing a fresh perspective to the Dark Horse Comics character created by Mike Mignola. Directed by Brian Taylor, the film stars Jack Kesy as Hellboy, with Jefferson White and Adeline Rudolph in pivotal roles. Set against the eerie backdrop of 1950s Appalachia, the narrative delves into folklore and the supernatural.
Synopsis
In the 1950s, Hellboy and a novice agent from the Bureau for Paranormal Research and Defense (B.P.R.D.) find themselves in the remote Appalachian Mountains. They encounter a community plagued by witches and led by a demonic entity known as the Crooked Man, who shares a sinister connection to Hellboy's past. As they navigate this treacherous terrain, they confront dark forces and ancient curses that challenge their courage and resolve.
Main Cast
Jack Kesy as Hellboy: The half-demon protagonist working for the B.P.R.D., known for his strength and dry wit.
Jefferson White as Tom Ferrell: A local with a mysterious past who becomes an ally in the fight 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 underperformance of the 2019 Hellboy reboot, Millennium Media announced plans for 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 was released in the United States on October 8, 2024, through a limited theatrical run 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.
