A feast for the eyes and a refreshingly offbeat blockbuster

Rating: Null/10 (6 February 2010)

A VERY fun comic book/action/fantasy movie from the creative genius of Guillermo del Toro (PAN'S LABYRINTH). A movie that goes against the grain for a summer blockbuster, mixing in comedy and humanity with all of the other-worldly creatures and amazingly choreographed fight scenes. The kind of movie where a demonic monster can get into fights with his girlfriend, share a beer with his amphibious pal, AND go head-to-head with an army of indestructible warriors. Not your typical comic book flick. An enjoyable ride, all-around.
This sequel adds a bit of a "Lord of the Rings"-like mythology to the "Hellboy" universe and del Toro's imagination runs wild with the creatures and visuals. The sets are so intricately detailed and the creatures are mainly puppets and costumes (NOT CGI!). It's pretty amazing. (Check out some of the behind-the-scenes features on the DVD to gain a further appreciation.)
HELLBOY II: THE GOLDEN ARMY is, in my opinion, a great improvement over the first HELLBOY movie. It takes the quirky style even further, to greater effect. Also joining the heroes from the first film is Johann Krauss, a mist-like character housed in what resembles an old deep sea diving suit and voiced by "Family Guy"'s Seth MacFarlane.
Del Toro's HELLBOY II turns the idea of comic book superheroes on its head, while also providing great other-worldly action. I enjoyed this film to no end. (The Barry Manilow song?) I was pleasantly surprised, and I highly recommend it.
Hilarious, action-packed, emotional, visually stunning. I love the tone of this movie. Fun for kids, adults, anyone.
4/5 stars