Finally a comic film high on "Comic" aspects not soap opera dramatics

Rating: 10/10 (3 April 2004)

Hellboy is a comic book film!! It is based on a comic book, and realizes such. This being said, unlike many other comic book films, this film lays on the cheese, but knows it is doing it. This film realizes it is a comic book, and that it's plot is very "OUT THERE." That is what makes it so much fun to watch. Unlike Daredevil and League of Extraordinary Gentleman, which were ridiculous soap operas compared to the likes of TV's, Passion, Hellboy is more one-liners and fun, and takes its self less serious. It is a comic book people, lets have fun with it!!!
That being said, there is still excellent characterization and drama as well, especially with Ron Perlman pulling out one of the best performances if not the best of his cult career. The special effects are phenomenal, especially for the 60 mill budget compared to the 100 mill of most pictures likened to it, that don't look nearly this good. The film also is high on style and wit, of course expected coming from Del Toro who improved on the Blade franchise with Blade 2 which was overly agreed as being way better than the original.
This film does have its plot holes and unexplained happenings, especially with the slime god's, but that is all excused by the wit and style of the film, which pulls the film through with flying colors. Unlike other comic book films, Hellboy does not rely on plot and story to unveil it's characters, but instead uses characterization and symbolism to lead the film, which may leave many disappointed. For me, that was a plus, I was expecting, going into this film to see a pure popcorn movie based on action and plot events, when instead, I got a popcorn film led by heart, wit, and humor. A surprisingly fun time at the movies for anyone, not just Hellboy comic book fans which i am not. Don't get me wrong there are plenty of great action scenes, and out of this world effects, but there is more to the film, which makes it so rewarding to watch.