Jack Kesy steps into the role of Hellboy in the latest reboot, “The Crooked Man,” and the new trailer has fans buzzing. This film marks the third time the demonic hero has been brought to life on the big screen, following portrayals by Ron Perlman and David Harbour. Kesy’s Hellboy is already facing scrutiny as fans compare him to his predecessors, but the trailer offers a fresh take on the character that might just win them over.
The trailer for “Hellboy: The Crooked Man” transports viewers to the eerie hills of Appalachia, where Hellboy and a rookie BPRD agent, played by Adeline Rudolph, find themselves stranded in the 1950s. The setting is rich with folklore and danger, as they encounter a community haunted by witches and led by the sinister Crooked Man. The atmosphere is thick with tension, and the visuals are haunting, with scenes of a woman falling prey to a giant snake and dark rituals that go horribly wrong.
The Crooked Man, a character with a deeply troubling past, is central to the film’s plot. According to local legend, Jeremiah Witkins, the Crooked Man, was one of the first settlers in the Appalachian Mountains. His life was marked by greed and cruelty, amassing wealth through the suffering of others. His actions during the American Revolution and the Civil War, where he sold liquor and guns to both sides, only added to his infamy. Eventually hanged for his crimes, Witkins’ name became cursed, and his soul was sent back to the mortal world as a demonic collector.
Jefferson White co-stars as Tom Ferrel, with Leah McNamara as Effie Kolb, Joseph Marcell as Reverend Watts, Hannah Margetson as Cora Fisher, and Martin Bassindale as the Crooked Man. Directed by Brian Taylor, known for “Mom and Dad” and “Crank,” the film is based on a script by Mike Mignola, the creator of the Hellboy comics, and Christopher Golden. This collaboration promises a film that stays true to the dark and gritty essence of the original comics.
The trailer showcases Kesy’s Hellboy as a more demonic hero, navigating a world filled with supernatural threats. The character’s internal struggle between his demonic nature and his role as a protector of humanity is palpable. This theme has always been central to Hellboy’s story, and “The Crooked Man” seems to delve deep into this existential crisis.
The film also draws inspiration from the B.P.R.D. comic series, a companion to the Hellboy comics. This is evident in the inclusion of Major Ben Daimio, played by Daniel Dae Kim, who is revealed to have the ability to transform into a were-jaguar. This adds another layer of complexity to the story, as Daimio’s curse mirrors Hellboy’s own struggles with his identity.
The new trailer has sparked a range of reactions online. Some fans are excited about the fresh take on the character and the new setting, while others are skeptical, comparing it to previous adaptations. However, the film’s commitment to practical effects and staying true to the source material has been praised. The trailer hints at a film that is both visually stunning and deeply rooted in the dark, mythological world of Hellboy.
The makeup and special effects, led by Joel Harlow, aim to bring the comic book characters to life in a realistic way. Harlow’s work is influenced by the art of Mike Mignola and Duncan Fegredo, but with practical touches that make the monsters feel real. This approach helps ground the fantastical elements of the story, making them more tangible and impactful.
“Hellboy: The Crooked Man” is set to hit theaters on April 12. As the release date approaches, fans are eager to see how Kesy’s portrayal of Hellboy will stand up to the iconic performances of Perlman and Harbour. The film promises a dark, thrilling adventure that explores the depths of Hellboy’s character and the haunting world he inhabits.
The new trailer has certainly set the stage for what could be a memorable addition to the Hellboy franchise. With a strong cast, a director known for his unique style, and a script that stays true to the original comics, “The Crooked Man” has the potential to be a hit with both longtime fans and newcomers to the series.
As the anticipation builds, one thing is clear: Jack Kesy’s Hellboy is ready to face the darkness, both within and without, in “The Crooked Man.”
Source: Entertainment Weekly, Variety
