“What makes a man a man? A friend of mine once wondered that.”
synopsis
During the final days of World War II, a group of Nazi occultists attempts to summon supernatural forces to help win the war. Instead, an American military team interrupts the ritual and discovers a strange red-skinned demon child who has emerged through the portal. Raised by a kindly scientist, the creature grows into Hellboy, a reluctant hero working for a secret government agency that investigates paranormal threats. When the dark forces that first summoned him return, Hellboy must confront both the monsters of the world and the question of whether he is destined to destroy it.
pairs well with ...
mini-review
Directed by Guillermo del Toro, this adaptation of the comic by Mike Mignola blends horror, fantasy, and comic-book adventure. Ron Perlman perfectly embodies Hellboy’s gruff humor and reluctant heroism, making the character oddly lovable despite his demonic appearance. The film’s gothic production design and imaginative monsters give it a unique visual style that sets it apart from typical superhero movies.
A fun movie night, popcorn, and the mood for monster-filled comic-book adventure.
Absurdist's Corner
Hellboy is literally a demon from another dimension destined to bring about the apocalypse…yet his biggest daily problem often seems to be finding snacks and avoiding paperwork.
fun facts
Director Guillermo del Toro insisted that Ron Perlman play Hellboy, even though the heavy prosthetic makeup required hours of preparation each day.
The character originated in a comic series created by Mike Mignola.
Much of the film’s creature design was done using practical effects rather than CGI.