One hell of a fun movie

Rating: Null/10 (15 July 2008)

Putting things in proper perspective, those who have watched "Pan Labyrinth" are fully aware of the visual wonders director Guillermo del Toro is capable of creating. Even those coming to "Hellboy II" with the highest expectations, however, will not be disappointed. It's not only sheer beauty, nor is it only painstaking details, but there's also ingenious imagination on which these stunning visuals build.
On plot, characters and mise-en-scene, it doesn't need a film critic to point out the resemblance to Star Wars, a resemblance that reflects more of a conscientious tribute rather than mindless copying. While they do bring to mind C-3PO and Princess Leia, Abe Sapien (Doug Jones) and Princess Nuala (Anna Walton) are characters that have their own unique existence. On the other hand, the twin brother and sister Nuada (Luke Goss), embodiment of good and evil, have a distinct flavour Shakespearean tragedy.
While visuals in clearly the main purpose  there are several scenes that will keep you eyes wide open even if you have not slept for a few nights  there is also wit and humor as well as affecting moments. There is one sequence that is an absolute stroke of ingenuity. During a languid lull between explosive action scenes, our to love-sick heroes are seen (and heard), after consuming God knows how many six-packs, singing along to the background of the sappiest of the sappiest love ballad, Barry Manilow's "Can't smile without you".
Ron Perlman's Hellboy is the most lovable comic book hero around today (yes, quite Robert Downey's Iron Man is immensely popular, but I won't describe him as "lovable"). Strangely, it reminds me of George Kennedy's Joe Patroni in the Airport series. Selma Blair's Liz Sherman is a perfect match, striking good balance between between shining in her own persona but not outshining the central hero.
Fantasy more than Sci-fi, "Hellboy II" is one hell of an entertainment that worths re-even if watching, just for the visuals.