The Hellboy franchise is about to get a fresh reboot with Hellboy: The Crooked Man, bringing back the iconic demon with a new twist. Directed by Brian Taylor and featuring Jack Kesy as the nominal Hellboy, this upcoming film promises to fall deep into the dark, ghostly world of Mike Mignola’s beloved comic series.

A New Chapter in the Hellboy Saga

After the mixed reception of the 2019 reboot, Hellboy: The Crooked Man is composed to redefine the franchise with a more faithful adaptation of Mignola’s work. This film is the second reboot of the Hellboy series and the fourth live-action entry in the franchise. Set in the 1950s, the story follows Hellboy and a rookie BPRD (Bureau for Paranormal Research and Defense) agent as they find themselves in a remote Green Mountains town haunted by witches and led by a sinister figure known as the Crooked Man. This character has a chilling connection to Hellboy’s past, setting the stage for a truly haunting experience.

Meet the Cast

Jack Kesy, known for his roles in 12 Strong and Deadpool 2, steps into the shoes of Hellboy. His portrayal promises to bring a fresh, youthful energy to the character while staying true to the demon’s complex nature. Joining Kesy are Jefferson White as Tom Ferrell and Adeline Rudolph as Bobbie Jo Song, both of whom will be crucial to the unfolding mystery in the Appalachian setting.

Martin Bassindale, who plays the titular Crooked Man, brings a unique blend of menace and mystery to the role. He’ll also appear as Professor Trevor “Broom” Bruttenholm, Hellboy’s adoptive father, in a supporting role. The ensemble cast also includes Joseph Marcell, Leah McNamara, and Hannah Margetson, all contributing to the film’s rich tapestry of characters.

Behind the Scenes

Filming for Hellboy: The Crooked Man took place in Bulgaria from March to May 2023. Brian Taylor, known for his work on Crank and Gamer, is directing from a script he co-wrote with Mike Mignola and Christopher Golden. Taylor’s vision for this film is to embrace a folk horror influence, expressive of the original comics. He has emphasized the film’s R-rating, promising to deliver a story that is as dark, scary, and violent as the source material.

While there were initial reports about the use of AI for creature designs, Taylor has clarified that this was a misunderstanding. According to him, the film’s characters, including Hellboy and the Crooked Man, were created using practical effects with no CGI enhancements, staying true to the gritty, tactile feel of the original comics.

What to Expect

With a fall release likely in September, Hellboy: The Crooked Man is set to offer a thrilling blend of supernatural horror and dark fantasy. The film’s adherence to practical effects and its commitment to the R-rated tone should resonate well with fans who appreciate the more mature and terrifying aspects of the Hellboy universe.

In summary, Hellboy: The Crooked Man is shaping up to be a captivating addition to the Hellboy franchise. With a talented cast, a director committed to authenticity, and a story that dives into the eerie depths of Appalachian folklore, this reboot is poised to satisfy both longtime fans and newcomers alike. Keep your eyes peeled for more updates as we approach the film’s release, and get ready for a dark journey into the unknown.