Guillermo's done it again

Rating: 8/10 (5 January 2009)

Guillermo del Toro's first Hellboy film was a little bit of a damp squib. This, from the man who would, two years later, direct the visionary, gripping and inventive "Pan's Labyrinth" was a disappointment, even though it seemed to be part of the man. He suggested that his cinematic life was split in two, between films "for himself" and films "for Hollywood".
However, with "Hellboy II", del Toro claims that this split is no more and that he has benefited from less interference. In short, he says he is happy to "own" this film. This is a cause for rejoicing as del Toro, one of the real treasures of modern cinema, can be trusted to be left to his own devices and, here, he creates a really entertaining, popcorn, blockbuster which is everything that "Indy IV" wasn't.
It has del Toro's characteristic invention and style. From the opening sequence (animated mannequins acting out the backstory) through to the grand finale, this is as visually lavish as "Pan's Labyrinth". The extended Troll Market sequence is a particular highlight.
The film also has a fair dash of del Toro's wit. Anyone who has seen or heard an interview with him will be aware that he has a cheeky, mischievous and childlike sense of humour which is delightful to listen to. With the impeccable timing of Ron Perlman (who delivers another excellent performance) at his service, he injects Hellboy with some no nonsense humour and conjures numerous amusing scenes and characters to support him.
It may not be to everybody's taste (one of the funniest lines in the film is "I'm not a baby. I'm a tuma.") but there is a lot to enjoy. Johann Krauss, a new addition to the cast of characters, fits in with this, whilst Abe Sapien (Doug Jones continues his superb work with del Toro here) and Hellboy share a splendid scene involving two drunk paranormal beings and Barry Manilow.
But, del Toro doesn't allow the film to become simple. The central plot features a villain who is in fact in the right (whether this justifies the proposed use of the eponymous army is another matter). Hellboy, now in the public eye, faces fascination and rejection from the humans and the villain is keen to exploit this. It is apparent that, like "The Dark Knight", this is a subversive blockbuster which is, in fact, a character piece dressed up as an action film.
All of which makes for great cinema. The film is never boring, always entertaining and a complete experience. This is superior entertainment and a true cinematic experience. It seems that, unhindered, del Toro is a joy. Let us hope that this form carries through to "The Hobbit".
4 stars out of 5