Hellboy: The Crooked Man

2024 - 10 - 8

Hellboy's Latest Adventure: Is It a Spellbinding Success or a Cursed Flop?

Brian Taylor - Comic Book Adaptations - Folk Horror - Hellboy - Indie Films - Jack Kesy

Grab your popcorn and dive into the mystical world of Hellboy in his latest flick, where indie vibes clash with folk horror!

Hellboy: The Crooked Man is the latest cinematic venture into the captivating yet unpredictable world of our favorite crimson demon. This time, director Brian Taylor has taken a daring, indie approach that embraces the eerie atmosphere and folk horror elements, all while juggled with ultra-low-budget constraints. However, audiences have been left divided, as some may argue the narrative feels creatively adrift. The film attempts to chart new territory within the dark lore of Hellboy, but its execution leaves many fans wondering if it really captures the essence of Mike Mignola’s beloved comic character.

Jack Kesy steps into the shoes of Hellboy, a role that is both iconic and riddled with expectations. While his performance receives praise for bringing a fresh take to the character, critics have pointed out the film’s limitations are strikingly apparent. As Kesy battles through supernatural enemies and navigates the murky moral waters of his existence in the 1950s, it becomes evident that though the film has swaths of charm and charisma, the production lacks the polish often associated with Hellboy adaptations. Partnered with Bobbie Jo Song, played by Adeline Rudolph, their dynamic provides glimpses of hope amid the film's otherwise troubled narrative.

The general consensus outlines that "Hellboy: The Crooked Man" does find some footing in its creative liberties. While some fans might arrive with lowered expectations due to its indie flavor, others may appreciate the homage it pays to iconic films like Evil Dead, layering in some nostalgic horror elements that those old-school fans might relish in. Yet, others remain skeptical, highlighting the incompleteness of the film's narrative arc. With a mixed reception, this installment makes one ponder whether our favorite demon has become a victim of his own mythology.

In the midst of all this feedback, the ending of the film sparks even more discussion. While the plot twists can certainly catch you off guard, it leaves many scratching their heads over what to really make of it all. Nevertheless, it raises an important question—can any film truly live up to the monumental legacy of the original Hellboy? Sure, the brand has its fair share of detractors, but as with all things in life, opinions are as varied as the shades of Hellboy's skin!

Here’s a fun fact for you: Jack Kesy, known for his versatility, previously lent his talents to other genres, proving he can handle action, comedy, and horror in his acting repertoire seamlessly! And as we venture deeper into the Hellboy universe, it’s worth noting that Brian Taylor is well-versed in the indie filmmaking scene, having showcased his skills in other cult-classic vibes. Perhaps the magic lies in the chaos that is Hellboy and his ever-evolving adventures!

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Image courtesy of "Bloody Disgusting"

'Hellboy: The Crooked Man' Is a Cursed Hex That Further Damns the ... (Bloody Disgusting)

Despite an evocative atmosphere and a rewarding embrace of folk horror, Brian Taylor's take on the big, red paranormal detective feels creatively lost in.

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Image courtesy of "IGN"

Hellboy: The Crooked Man Movie Review - IGN (IGN)

Despite its ultra-low-budget trappings, Hellboy: The Crooked Man is a fun, competent adaptation that offers up a healthy dose of Evil Dead-style ...

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Image courtesy of "JoBlo.com"

Hellboy: The Crooked Man Review: Is It Actually Decent? (JoBlo.com)

Low expectations help this new iteration of Hellboy, which takes a decidedly more indie route and settles nicely into folk horror.

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Image courtesy of "Collider.com"

'Hellboy: The Crooked Man' Review: A Solid New Lead Stuck in ... (Collider.com)

Hellboy: The Crooked Man gives us a solid new Hellboy with Jack Kesy, but the limitations are disappointingly apparent.

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Image courtesy of "the AU review"

Interview: Jack Kesy on inhabiting comic book royalty in Hellboy ... (the AU review)

Actor Jack Kesy is no stranger to dabbling in the realms of the action (The Killer), comic book (Deadpool 2) and horror genres (TV's The Strain) across his ...

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Image courtesy of "Digital Mafia Talkies"

'Hellboy: The Crooked Man' Ending Explained & Film Summary: Is ... (Digital Mafia Talkies)

Hellboy: The Crooked Man is a terrible attempt at bringing Mike Mignola's comic book character back to the screen in the second film of an already mediocre.

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Image courtesy of "Moviesr.net"

'Hellboy: The Crooked Man' (2024) Movie Review - A Very Childish ... (Moviesr.net)

Set in the 1950s, “Hellboy: The Crooked Man” stars Jack Kesy as the iconic Hellboy, alongside his BPRD agent, Bobbie Jo Song, played by Adeline Rudolph. The ...

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Image courtesy of "IGN Africa"

Hellboy: The Crooked Man Movie Review (IGN Africa)

Posted Oct. 8, 2024, 7:28 p.m.. Hellboy: The Crooked Man is in cinemas now. It's safe to say that most Hellboy fans probably had ...

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Image courtesy of "X-Press Magazine"

Review: Hellboy: The Crooked Man – Red means stop (X-Press Magazine)

Directed by Brian Taylor Starring Jack Kesy, Adeline Rudolph, Jefferson White. 5/10. Any attempt to revive Hellboy will always be met with peril.

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Image courtesy of "CULTURE CRYPT"

HELLBOY: THE CROOKED MAN (2024) — CULTURE CRYPT (CULTURE CRYPT)

It takes some getting used to the scaled-back styling, yet once you do, the film's unsettling aura of folk horror quietly creeps up on you.

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Image courtesy of "Variety"

'Hellboy: The Crooked Man' Review: A Dull, Disorienting Experiment (Variety)

A lower budget sadly comes with lower effort and artistry in Brian Taylor's superhero reboot 'Hellboy: The Crooked Man.'

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Image courtesy of "Polygon"

Hellboy: The Crooked Man is a learning experience in how not to ... (Polygon)

Indie studio Ketchup Entertainment has a new Hellboy movie out, but you won't find Hellboy: The Crooked Man in theaters this week. It's a small movie: no ...

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