Reviews

Not the worst film I've seen

I must preclude this review by saying that I am very partial to the del Toro duology, but I feel I have been very fair and non-discriminate against the new lead actor - David Harbour - and the new director.

The movie runs a bit slow as I found myself pausing more often than I typically do - for me personally this is indicative of a flick being slightly boring or not catching my attention completely. It picks up the pace about half way through.

David Harbour plays Hellboy fairly (not as naturally as Perlman, but likeable nonetheless) and had me chuckling quite a few times throughout the two hours. In fact, I noticed an abundance of comedic implants that gave the film a boost. This was a noticeable contrast to the darker, anger-laced portrayals which created a predominant dualism in his character.

The script is written in a way that it's hurried and presumptively and suffers because of it. I think overall the plot is very cliche and a go-to of sorts for superhero films. In that respect it scores very average, hence my rating of a 5 out of 10.

Hellboy's father and the scenes involving him were bland, I think a more unique actor could have been the missing element in that regard.

Milla Jovovich seemed decent enough as the hellbent witch; nothing compared to say Cara Delevigne's performance in Suicide Squad. Nevertheless, Jovovich is sexy enough for me to close up shop on the B.P.R.D. and explore being king while we're ravaged the Earth.The manner in which Hellboy's immaturity was portrayed seemed annoying, Perlman nailed that aspect of the red demon's personality whereas Harbour had trouble blending it into his overall persona.

Spoiler: I suppose Baba Yaga will get revenge in the sequel, judging by how the film ended - I was really anticipating the closing of that encounter as the makeup/costume and acting made Yaga a demonically delectable addition to the various caricatures.

Spoiler: Abe Sapien! It's obvious his discovery and membership to the B.P.R.D. will be part of the sequel. Curious to see who they will cast, hard to compete with Doug Jones.

In closing I feel comfortable with a sequel, Harbour acts well and for all intents and purposes fulfills the classic image of Hellboy. Sasha Lane is a fantastic addition as well and deserves a place in the next film.