As a devoted fan of comics and graphic novels, I was thrilled when the announcement of 2019’s Hellboy hit the news.
The movie is a reboot of the earlier film series that brought Mike Mignola’s iconic comic book character to life.
This new iteration, directed by Neil Marshall and featuring Stranger Things’ David Harbour in the titular role, promised a fresh take on the beloved franchise.
This article intends to decode the nuances of Hellboy (2019), offering a comprehensive comic character summary, exploring the parent guide aspects, revealing when and where the film takes place, and unveiling the motley crew of characters.
Hellboy: A Comprehensive Comic Character Summary
Hellboy is no ordinary superhero. He’s a demon, a creature from the pits of Hell, brought to Earth during the final months of World War II by the villainous Grigori Rasputin.
Hellboy, initially a pawn in Rasputin’s wicked schemes, is discovered by the Allied forces and taken in by Professor Trevor Bruttenholm.
The professor raises Hellboy as his own, nurturing his inherent goodness and helping him control his demonic power.
Now an adult, Hellboy works for the Bureau of Paranormal Research and Defense (B.P.R.D.), fighting supernatural threats and protecting humanity from the unseen dangers lurking in the shadows.
Movie Summary: Decoding Hellboy (2019)
Hellboy (2019) presents a new interpretation of the half-demon anti-hero.
The film borrows heavily from the comic books, integrating elements from “The Wild Hunt,” “The Storm and the Fury,” and “Hellboy in Mexico.”
Hellboy is forced to confront his origins when the ancient sorceress Nimue, also known as the Blood Queen, is resurrected, threatening humanity’s existence.
Through the course of the movie, Hellboy grapples with his identity, his destiny, and his place in the world, while trying to stop Nimue and her nefarious plans.
Parent’s Guide to Hellboy (2019)
Hellboy (2019) is a darker and grittier adaptation than its predecessors.
It’s rated R for strong bloody violence and gore throughout, and language.
Parents should be aware that the film contains graphic violence, including decapitations, impalements, and dismemberment.
There’s also a fair amount of profanity, which might not be suitable for younger viewers.
However, for teenagers and adults who are fans of horror, action, or comic book adaptations, Hellboy offers an exciting and intense viewing experience.
When and Where Hellboy (2019) Takes Place: Film Locations Unveiled
Hellboy (2019) takes viewers on a globe-trotting adventure. The film’s narrative unfolds across various locations, from the dark forests of England to the bustling streets of Tijuana, Mexico, and the secret headquarters of the B.P.R.D. in Colorado.
The production team utilized several real-world locations to bring these settings to life. For instance, the majestic Pendennis Castle in Cornwall, England, stands in for the ruins of Pendle Hill, where the climactic battle takes place.
Who’s Who in Hellboy (2019): Characters Unveiled
Hellboy (2019) boasts an array of characters from the comic book universe. There’s Hellboy, of course, the half-demon protagonist.
Then there’s the wise and loving Professor Bruttenholm, Hellboy’s adoptive father, played by Ian McShane.
The film also introduces audiences to new allies, like the psychic medium Alice Monaghan (Sasha Lane) and the were-jaguar Major Ben Daimio (Daniel Dae Kim).
On the villainous side, we have the resurrected Blood Queen Nimue (Milla Jovovich) and her loyal henchman, Gruagach (Stephen Graham).
Notable Quotes from Hellboy (2019)
“Hellboy” has always been known for its sharp dialogue and memorable lines, and the 2019 film is no exception.
One of the most notable quotes comes from Hellboy himself, when he says, “Some dads get their kids Legos.”
It’s a humorous nod to his unusual upbringing and the complex relationship he shares with his father.
Another memorable line comes from Professor Bruttenholm: “You are mankind’s best and only hope.”
It’s a powerful affirmation of Hellboy’s worth, despite his demonic origins.
Soundtrack by Benjamin Wallfisch: A Musical Journey through Hellboy (2019)
The film’s score, composed by Benjamin Wallfisch, plays a vital role in setting the tone and atmosphere of Hellboy (2019).
Wallfisch’s soundtrack brilliantly captures the film’s dark and gritty vibe, blending modern sounds with classical influences to create a unique and fitting musical backdrop.
The soundtrack is a journey in itself, taking listeners through Hellboy’s world, reflecting his inner turmoil, and amplifying the film’s most intense moments.
Curiosities and Trivia about Hellboy (2019)
Hellboy (2019) is full of interesting tidbits and trivia.
For instance, did you know that David Harbour had to endure a grueling physical transformation to play Hellboy, including spending hours in the makeup chair and wearing a hefty 40-pound suit? Or that the film includes several nods to the wider Hellboy universe, including a cameo by Lobster Johnson, a popular character from the comics?
These curiosities add an extra layer of enjoyment for the fans and make the viewing experience even more engaging.
How to Dress Like Characters from Hellboy (2019): Tips for Cosplay
For fans looking to cosplay as their favorite Hellboy characters, it’s all about attention to detail.
Hellboy‘s look can be achieved with a red body paint, a filed-down Hellboy mask for the right horn effect, a trench coat, and, of course, a right hand of doom prop.
For a Nimue cosplay, a long medieval-style dress, a prosthetic horned crown, and a lot of green body paint should do the trick.
Remember, the key to a successful cosplay is not just in the costume, but also in embodying the character’s mannerisms and personality.
Mike Mignola: The Man Behind Hellboy
Hellboy wouldn’t exist without the creative genius of Mike Mignola. Mignola first introduced Hellboy in San Diego Comic-Con Comics #2 in August 1993.
Since then, Hellboy has become a cultural icon, starring in countless comics, graphic novels, films, and even video games.
Mignola’s unique art style and storytelling have set Hellboy apart in the crowded field of comic book heroes.
His work has been celebrated for its blend of folklore, pulp fiction, and Lovecraftian horror, all underpinned by a rich character-driven narrative.
Hellboy (2019) Ending Explained
The ending of Hellboy (2019) leaves the door open for future adventures.
Hellboy, having accepted his destiny as the world’s protector, defeats Nimue and saves the world from apocalypse.
In the final scenes, we see Hellboy, Alice, and Daimio ready to face new supernatural threats, teasing the possibility of a sequel.
The post-credits scenes also hint at the return of Lobster Johnson and the introduction of Abe Sapien, Hellboy’s partner from the comics.
Hellboy (2019): Remake, Sequel, and Spin-off
Hellboy (2019) is a reboot of the Hellboy film series, offering a new interpretation of the character and his world.
As of now, there’s no official announcement of a sequel or spin-off.
However, the film’s ending and post-credits scenes suggest that the story is far from over.
Fans can only hope that Hellboy will return to the big screen in the near future, continuing his fight against the forces of darkness.
Neil Marshall’s Other Contributions to Media
Neil Marshall, the director of Hellboy (2019), is a highly respected filmmaker known for his work in the horror and action genres.
His filmography includes critically acclaimed films like “Dog Soldiers” and “The Descent.” Marshall has also directed episodes of popular television series like “Game of Thrones,” “Westworld,” and “Hannibal.”
His knack for creating tension and delivering intense action sequences made him the perfect choice to helm the Hellboy reboot.
Media Similar to Hellboy (2019)
If you enjoyed Hellboy (2019), you might also like other dark, action-packed comic book adaptations.
Movies like “Constantine,” “Blade,” and “The Crow” offer a similar blend of horror, action, and supernatural elements.
On the TV front, shows like “Preacher,” “Lucifer,” and “Penny Dreadful” explore similar themes of good, evil, and the grey areas in between.
The Works of Mike Mignola Beyond Hellboy
While Hellboy is Mike Mignola’s most famous creation, it’s not his only work. Mignola has created a rich universe of characters and stories beyond Hellboy.
Titles like “B.P.R.D.,” “Abe Sapien,” “Lobster Johnson,” and “Witchfinder” expand the Hellboy universe, offering new perspectives and narratives.
Mignola’s work outside the Hellboy universe, like “The Amazing Screw-On Head” and “Baltimore,” showcase his versatility and creativity as a writer and artist.
Hellboy Book Club Questions
For those interested in delving deeper into the Hellboy universe, starting a book club can be a great idea.
Here are a few questions to spark discussion: How does Hellboy’s struggle with his identity shape his character and his choices? How does the use of folklore and mythology enhance the Hellboy stories? What themes and messages do you see in the Hellboy comics? How does the artwork contribute to the storytelling?
Hellboy in Video Games
Hellboy’s popularity extends beyond comics and films into the realm of video games.
Hellboy has appeared in several games, including “Hellboy: Asylum Seeker” and “Hellboy: The Science of Evil.”
He’s also a playable character in “Injustice 2,” and has made guest appearances in other games like “Brawlhalla.” These games allow fans to experience Hellboy’s world in a new, interactive way.
Travel Guide: Visiting Hellboy (2019) Film Locations
Visiting the film locations of Hellboy (2019) can be a thrilling experience, especially for fans.
The movie was shot in various locations across the UK, including Bristol, London, and Cornwall.
Pendennis Castle, used as the location for Pendle Hill, is open to the public and offers stunning views of the Cornish coastline.
Bristol’s city center also features prominently in the film, and fans can explore the city’s historic sites and vibrant culture.
Conclusion: The Lasting Impact of Hellboy (2019)
While Hellboy (2019) may not have been a box office hit, it holds a special place in the hearts of Hellboy fans.
The film stays true to the spirit of the comics, offering a darker and more complex portrayal of the titular character.
It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of Hellboy, a character who continues to captivate audiences with his unique blend of strength, humor, and vulnerability.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, Hellboy (2019) offers a rich, immersive experience that’s well worth exploring.
