Ranking All ‘Hellboy’ Live-Action Movies from Worst to Best

Hellboy is the beloved demon with a demeanor as tough as his physique. Despite his impressive comic book lineage, the cinematic representations of Hellboy have been uneven. Similar to the chaotic nature of various afterlife realms, there are standout films and those that are quite dismal. So, which ones shine brightly? And which ones languish in the depths of despair? Here’s an overview, ranked from the least impressive to the most exceptional.

4. Hellboy (2019)

Hellboy featuring David Harbour — (Universal)

WHAT HAVE THEY DONE TO MY BOY? The 2019 version of Hellboy feels like it should return to the fiery depths from which its protagonist originates. There was one redeeming choice: casting David Harbour in the titular role. Unfortunately, the film quickly spirals into a whirlpool of cinematic missteps. The screenplay is abysmally poor, drowning deeper than just brimstone. This version of Hellboy, normally recognized for his swagger and devil-may-care attitude, is instead portrayed as a petulant child. It’s jarring, especially when the narrative quickly descends into a chaotic display of graphic violence meant for adults. The film’s blood-soaked finale resembles a misguided installment of the Saw franchise, with excessive gore accompanied by a rock soundtrack that makes one want to punch themselves in the face. I wouldn’t be surprised if this film loops in the dark corridors of the Inferno.

3. Hellboy: The Crooked Man (2024)

Jack Kesy as Hellboy with cigarette in 'Hellboy: The Crooked Man' — (Ketchup Entertainment)

In a bid to recover from the disaster that was the 2019 installment, Dark Horse Comics and Millennium Media decided to take a sharp turn in genre with Hellboy: The Crooked Man. This film shies away from previous action-centric approaches, opting instead for a more sinister tone. It represents an intriguing shift to what one might call “superhero horror.”Unfortunately, the execution falls short of the concept’s potential. Set amidst the untamed landscapes of Appalachia, Hellboy investigates some local witchcraft issues. However, the real misstep involves the CGI; the film kicks off with a poorly rendered raccoon, and things only worsen from there. It’s surprising that a film produced two decades after the original can’t do better in the visual effects department. Yet, despite these shortcomings, The Crooked Man does manage to deliver a convincing horror narrative that could revive some optimism for the franchise.

2. Hellboy (2004)

Ron Perlman in Hellboy (2004) — (Sony Pictures)

The inaugural Hellboy film is an absolute triumph. Its origin story strikes hard, paralleling the effectiveness of Tobey Maguire’s Spider-Man. At first glance, the plot might seem absurd: a secret Nazi occult group opens a portal to hell to unleash a demon child to win a war? Raised by a surrogate father of supernatural beings alongside a telepathic fish-man? And he’s tasked with stopping immortal Nazis determined to bring Lovecraftian horrors into reality while dealing with romantic feelings towards a troubled pyromaniac? The narrative is delightfully bonkers. Yet, under Guillermo del Toro’s skillful writing, it all comes together seamlessly. The film effortlessly blends action, horror, romance, and monstrous tentacles into a beautifully dark blockbuster. And as for the cigar-smoking Hellboy, Ron Perlman delivered an iconic performance that resonated deeply.

1. Hellboy II: The Golden Army (2008)

The many-eyed Angel of Death smiles in — (Universal)

Often, sequels risk becoming overloaded with ideas and losing focus. However, Hellboy II: The Golden Army defies this trend, masterfully handling its expansive storyline. The plot might be even zanier than its predecessor, featuring a long-lost elf with Targaryen vibes who plans to raise an army of magical, mechanical beasts to conquer the planet, with Hellboy being the perfect antagonist to thwart them. One might assume the fantastical setting would stretch the limits of 2008’s special effects, but surprisingly, it delivers stunning visuals. The Angel of Death, with its dark wings and numerous eyes, stands out as one of the most visually arresting creatures of modern cinema. And the action scenes? They are thrilling, showcasing Hellboy’s heavy-handed style juxtaposed against the graceful, deadly moves of his opponents. Ultimately, a film’s merit is often tied to its villain, and Prince Nuada ranks as the finest in the whole series.

(Featured Image: Ketchup Entertainment)

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