Review By Jon Donnis
Hellboy: The Crooked Man (2024) is a bold attempt to steer the franchise back towards its comic book roots, embracing a darker, more horror-focused tone. Set in 1950s Appalachia, the film follows Hellboy and rookie BPRD agent Bobbie Jo Song as they investigate a community plagued by witches, led by a sinister figure known as the Crooked Man, who has a mysterious connection to Hellboy's past. The rural setting, steeped in folklore, adds an unsettling atmosphere that works well for the film's supernatural elements.
Jack Kesy takes on the role of Hellboy, and while his portrayal doesn't have the same larger-than-life charisma as Ron Perlman's version, he brings a more sombre, grounded take to the character. Adeline Rudolph plays Bobbie Jo Song, a new character created for this film, and her partnership with Hellboy provides some good moments of levity amidst the darker story. Jefferson White's Tom Ferrell, a local man haunted by his past encounter with the Crooked Man, delivers a solid performance, contributing to the film's emotional depth.
One of the film's strengths is its use of practical effects, which give the creatures and settings a gritty, tangible quality that complements the eerie tone. This decision helps ground the story, avoiding an over-reliance on CGI and enhancing the film's old-school horror vibe. The plot, however, does falter at times, with some pacing issues and a lack of deeper character development that could have made the story more engaging.
While The Crooked Man captures the gothic horror atmosphere of the comics, it's held back by its clear budget limitations. The film doesn't have the visual flair or expansive world-building seen in previous Hellboy adaptations, making it feel smaller in scale. The direct-to-streaming nature of the project also affects the overall production value, which may be a disappointment for those hoping for a more cinematic experience.
Despite these limitations, Hellboy: The Crooked Man should satisfy fans of the comics who appreciate its faithful adaptation and focus on horror. It's a solid, if unremarkable, entry in the Hellboy universe, offering enough creepy atmosphere and practical effects to entertain those looking for a darker take on the character. Though it may not attract a new audience, it holds its own as a straightforward supernatural adventure. 6.5 out of 10
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