Hellboy II: The Golden Army
Universal Pictures | Release Date: July 11, 2008
7.7
USER SCORE
Generally favorable reviews based on 514 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
399
Mixed:
72
Negative:
43
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9
HalfwelshmanSep 30, 2011
Hellboy II doesn't just better its predecessor, it buries it. Guillermo Del Toro proves why it's better for everyone if he's left to do his own thing. The first Hellboy was extremely competent, but far from inspiring. Fresh from completingHellboy II doesn't just better its predecessor, it buries it. Guillermo Del Toro proves why it's better for everyone if he's left to do his own thing. The first Hellboy was extremely competent, but far from inspiring. Fresh from completing his dark fantasy masterpiece Pan's Labyrinth, Del Toro manages to inject the big red ape's second outing with some much needed energy and imagination. You'll never see another superhero film like this. It's a superhero film filled with such well-developed weird and wonderful characters who actually have something to say about you and I. It's got plenty of big set pieces, but does not fall into the trap most summer blockbusters do - it never becomes dominated by action, it's always about character. It's well-acted (particularly Luke Goss playing a sympathetic and complex villain and Seth MacFarlane and Jeffrey Tambor providing the comic relief), visually stunning (with nods to Pan) and emotionally heartfelt. It's not about a big red guy beating up fairies and trolls. Like all of Del Toro's work, its about people (whether black, white, blue or red) and relationships. Like Hellboy himself, it may look a little strange on the outside, but at the core it's a complex beast with nothing but good intentions.… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
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7
youthcritic12Jul 19, 2011
I belive the movie was a C-. It wasn't as bad as i thought it would be but i was grossed out quiet a bit. there where some key elements like action, romance, awesome effects and a exciting ending. Over all its a fairly good movie but i'veI belive the movie was a C-. It wasn't as bad as i thought it would be but i was grossed out quiet a bit. there where some key elements like action, romance, awesome effects and a exciting ending. Over all its a fairly good movie but i've seen better.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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7
TyranianApr 9, 2019
Pretty awesome sequel, better than first in many ways but ending is massive anticlimax.
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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7
imthenoobJan 26, 2012
What I liked about this film was that it looked a lot better then the first film, The CGI sequences blend perfectly with the film. The acting was solid but I did not like Luke Goss and Anna Walton as leads (they played the prince andWhat I liked about this film was that it looked a lot better then the first film, The CGI sequences blend perfectly with the film. The acting was solid but I did not like Luke Goss and Anna Walton as leads (they played the prince and princess). The plot was decent but a little too generic as well but del Toro adds a few personal moments for his characters and it makes the film that much better. Its an improved sequel better then the first film.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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7
Tall_But_ShortMay 26, 2012
Think of Hellboy II as Star Wars mixed with Hell. Yet, in a good way. Guillermo Del Toroâ
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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8
SpangleSep 20, 2017
A thrilling and fantastical return to the Bureau of Paranoramal Research and Defense, Hellboy II: The Golden Army is far less gothic than its predecessor and, in focusing more on the fantasy element, is a great improvement on its alreadyA thrilling and fantastical return to the Bureau of Paranoramal Research and Defense, Hellboy II: The Golden Army is far less gothic than its predecessor and, in focusing more on the fantasy element, is a great improvement on its already strong first entry. Far more in Guillermo del Toro's wheelhouse as more of a fantastical fairy tale with fairies, elves, and children reading those very same fairy tales, Hellboy II: The Golden Army starts off with informing the audience about the war between humans and elves. Born with a hole in their heart that is filled with earthly possessions, humanity sought to wipe out every other being on Earth. The only ones standing in their way were the elves who raised a golden army that was indestructible. Destroying the humans in numbers that disturbed the Elf King, a truce was reached for the elves to stay in the forest with two pieces of the golden crown that controls the Golden Army and the humans to stay in the cities with one piece of the crown. However, when elvish Prince Nuada (Luke Goss) returns and is determined to raise the Golden Army to wipe out humanity, it is on Hellboy and the gang to save the world once again.

Central to this work is the role of Hellboy and his other supernatural friends in this world of humanity. However, it is largely through the guise of exploring those who are different. In his work, Del Toro is known for exploring creativity, fairy tales, those with their heads in the clouds, and those who are different from others for these reasons - namely Pan's Labyrinth and now again in The Shape of Water, as examples - and here, in Hellboy II, he firmly establishes this group as one of outsiders. Hellboy is equated to Frankenstein's monster as the people accuse him of harming a child even though they can plainly see he did not. Abe Sapien is equated to the Creature from the Black Lagoon. Liz (Selma Blair) feels "looked at" and scrutinized due to her fire-based abilities. The trio feel excluded and like outsiders to the world around them, yet they fight for this world all the same. Though they feel rejected and like outcasts, their wish to fit in is one that overwhelms them. Yet, at the core of it all, is their belief that there should be no boundaries. Abe falls in love with the Elf Princess. Hellboy and Liz are in love. There is inter-species romance in the air and this eclectic group of weirdos embrace these differences. Though rejected by the humans, they nonetheless fight for them because they love their differences, respect them, and wish to protect them and their culture when it is under attack.

It is for this same reason that Hellboy struggles to kill a god of the forest and, later, the dangerous elf Prince. Waging war on the humans to maintain their own culture, the elves' cause is one that Hellboy sympathizes with entirely. The prince plays on this sympathy and continuously tries to win him over to his side, warning that the humans will never accept him and his differences. Yet, to Hellboy and the others, the humans are not the ones waging war. Though they may, that is not their concern in the present. Rather, no matter what pull they feel to defend the elves, they must defend those that they are entrusted to protect and those that have remained peaceful to other species in recent times. In the end, for this bad of misfits, the most important thing is acceptance, peace, and understanding. Those who wage war must go as their anti-cultural beliefs are ones that do not gel with them - see the Nazis in the first film - and though they wish to fight for all cultures to remain, there is a line to not cross that the elves have very flippantly disregarded.

In this regard, the film perfectly uses the "end of the world" trope that has often maligned superhero films in recent years. Though the elvish prince does wish to unleash the Golden Army on humanity that would certainly wipe them out, the film has it all make sense. Rather than some nonsensical plot where it becomes clear that the villain has nothing but blood lust, the backstory and development of the elvish prince allows us to understand his plight perfectly. As a result, he is a strong villain as though reject his actions, his reasoning and cause are ones that are rather noble. Viewing his father's actions as ones that have eliminated the elves from the world, he wishes to restore his culture as one to be proud of and one that instills great respect wherever it travels. His violent ways are not the right path, but his cause makes sense and his method of rectifying these wrongs make sense as well. In essence, it often doubles as a symbol of nuclear warfare. With certain destruction of the enemy when using the Golden Army, one must exercise great caution in using the weapon. Yet, as with the Americans and Soviets, the elvish prince is fighting for a way of life and a culture. He is willing to press the red button and unleash the army to do so. As a result, he must be stopped even if his… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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8
Compi24Nov 28, 2012
Despite a dismally doom-laden plot, Del Toro's utterly breathtaking visuals and charm send this sequel soaring into the right direction.
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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7
Skullgirlsfan13Jun 1, 2013
With the upcoming release of his next action film: Pacific Rim, I decided to take it upon myself and watch some his movies (Guillermo Del toro). I already watched a few of his work already and liked them; Hellboy and Pans labyrinth, andWith the upcoming release of his next action film: Pacific Rim, I decided to take it upon myself and watch some his movies (Guillermo Del toro). I already watched a few of his work already and liked them; Hellboy and Pans labyrinth, and finally I watched this one. I was surely satisfied with what I got and I can safely say it's better than the last one. Not like Batman begins to Dark knight, no, just that this one has some improvements. We have most of the main cast returning, Hellboy himself is sill likeable; giving that tough dude attitude with a gentle heart. The fish man who gives a C3PO performance is funny at times, and it's nice how they try to dive into both of their lives a bit. Hellboy is having some relationship problems, and the fish man is discovering love for the first time. By far my favorite part of the film was the introduction to the ectoplasm doctor. He's so ridiculous looking, but is conveyed as both a bad ass, and a stone cold leader. The story does sound a bit familiar from the last movie, in the fact that there's an ancient evil, but here it's an ancient evil requiring an ancient power. I guess the other problem; if you can call it that, was that the plot was explained real early. It was described in a story that was being told to the main character, but if I think about, it sounds like an in joke. The action is okay. I would say the best fight is with the plant god, the sheer size of it makes (the fight) makes things more epic. Although I do think that the fights can be a bit sloppy, mainly the one with hellboy and Winx, it's too slow. Overall, this is a certainly entertaining film, and I am glad I got it on Blu-ray.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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7
SuperheroMoviesAug 5, 2013
Fueled with tons of imagination, creative costume designs and an emotion filled storyline, Golden Army is a sequel that works on many levels, whether it's the story or impressive designs.
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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7
RayzorMooseNov 13, 2013
A solid sequel to the already good picture. The Golden Army digs deeper into the characters backgrounds and enchants audiences in great action and a good storyline.
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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7
Cinemassacre94Mar 20, 2016
Directing a sequel to a modestly successful comic-book adaptation might seem like a perverse choice to follow up an Oscar-winning international triumph like Pan's Labyrinth. But for Guillermo del Toro, directing the Hellboy movies is theDirecting a sequel to a modestly successful comic-book adaptation might seem like a perverse choice to follow up an Oscar-winning international triumph like Pan's Labyrinth. But for Guillermo del Toro, directing the Hellboy movies is the opposite of slumming: His affection for the comic's motley gang of misfits is palpable in every scene. Del Toro makes movies fanboys love in part because he's such a fanboy himself. With Hellboy II: The Golden Army, del Toro proves his geek credentials once again by collaborating with Hellboy creator Mike Mignola on the story, hiring Family Guy creator Seth MacFarlane to voice a fantastical creature that looks like Robby The Robot's off-brand cousin and talks like Colonel Klink, and including a conspicuous homage to John Landis.

Ron Perlman returns as the film's loveable title character, a demon gone good who's tough on the outside but tender underneath, with a soft spot for kittens, candy, and babies. With his formidable physique, cigars, giant guns, and winning way with a one-liner, he's part McBain-style action-hero parody, part Frankenstein-like outcast. Hellboy is the key ass-kicking component of a secret government paranormal squad that includes fiery girlfriend Selma Blair, a bright, cerebral chap (Doug Jones) who bears an unfortunate resemblance to the Creature From The Black Lagoon, the aforementioned MacFarlane-voiced German monstrosity, and hapless human sidekick Jeffrey Tambor. They're like the Ghostbusters if the Ghostbusters were phantasms and beasties themselves. In his latest adventure, Hellboy and the gang take on an otherworldly prince out to take over the world with the eponymous golden army.

Hellboy 2 breezes along on the strength of Perlman's brawling charisma, a likeable tone, and a deft combination of goofball humor, pathos, and big action setpieces. It reaches sublime heights in three virtuoso sequences: a hilariously boozy Barry Manilow sing-along between the lovesick Perlman and Jones, a lyrical sequence where a giant tree monster becomes a leafy green paradise, and an eye-popping trip to a troll bazaar that recalls the canteen sequence in Star Wars and highlights the film's phenomenal, extensive creature design. Hellboy II can't help but feel slight following Pan's Labyrinth, but that's part of its charm. Think of it as a pleasant diversion for del Toro and his fans before the epic task of mounting The Hobbit for producer (and fellow geek-god) Peter Jackson.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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8
FinderofThingsMay 7, 2016
This movie is actually pretty good but we need to get Ron Pearlman another Hellboy movie. Seriously, I don't want to find him comatose on the floor covered in red paint clutching an oversized foam pistol in one hand and wielding a paintedThis movie is actually pretty good but we need to get Ron Pearlman another Hellboy movie. Seriously, I don't want to find him comatose on the floor covered in red paint clutching an oversized foam pistol in one hand and wielding a painted hulk fist in the other. I really don't want to find him complete with fake devil horns and a red rubber hose taped to his butt.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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9
alejandro970Mar 25, 2018
Excels the previous with a catalogue of monsters and fantastic beings own of his inventive. The sequences of humor and action are well balanced and the final act develops for a third episode..., that never was (sadly).
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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9
Bugger217Sep 3, 2017
Looking back at 2008's comic book films, people remember The Dark Knight for taking the genre to new dramatic heights, and they remember Iron Man for kicking off the Marvel Cinematic Universe in an exciting way. Both great films that deserveLooking back at 2008's comic book films, people remember The Dark Knight for taking the genre to new dramatic heights, and they remember Iron Man for kicking off the Marvel Cinematic Universe in an exciting way. Both great films that deserve all of the praise they receive, no doubt. However, another great film unfortunately got lost in the shuffle: Hellboy II.

By trimming the fat, Hellboy II is an improvement over the first entry, allowing viewers to get totally sucked into the magical world in which its colorful characters exist. With even more heart and better action, Hellboy II is a delight from start to finish. It's unfortunate we'll never see the conclusion of Guillermo del Toro's Hellboy trilogy, but the first two films are something special, and absolutely deserve to be seen by those who missed them.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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10
ShadowKat69Jul 26, 2019
A pretty good sequel to the first one and a decent childhood memory to me.

Though something that I kept wondering about was where was the human duce from the first one? I can't remember if the movie explains it but he wasn't really all thatA pretty good sequel to the first one and a decent childhood memory to me.

Though something that I kept wondering about was where was the human duce from the first one? I can't remember if the movie explains it but he wasn't really all that important anyway so I suppose it doesn't really matter.

P.S Abe is still bae (I didn't have much to say other than that)… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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7
grandpajoe6191Sep 29, 2011
"Hellboy 2: The Golden Army" is a prominent improvement of "Hellboy". With the obviously beautiful visuals, director Del Toro proceeds to actually contribute deeper into the plot and characters, resulting in one exhilarating film. A"Hellboy 2: The Golden Army" is a prominent improvement of "Hellboy". With the obviously beautiful visuals, director Del Toro proceeds to actually contribute deeper into the plot and characters, resulting in one exhilarating film. A reasonable must-watch.… Expand
5 of 6 users found this helpful51
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8
homer4presidentMar 28, 2015
Guillermo del Toro's sequel to his 2004 comic-book-success is humorous, exciting and majestic as it explores a whole different realm of the Dark-Horse-adaptation. Ron Perlman once again gives a smart and distinct performance with laughableGuillermo del Toro's sequel to his 2004 comic-book-success is humorous, exciting and majestic as it explores a whole different realm of the Dark-Horse-adaptation. Ron Perlman once again gives a smart and distinct performance with laughable dialogue and action all around.… Expand
3 of 4 users found this helpful31
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7
amheretojudgeJun 20, 2019
When was the last time you enjoyed a song in a commercial film, you will leave the screen humming, in love.

Hellboy: The Golden Army Del Toro is good. Simply good. The writer and director, Guillermo Del Toro, is back on the franchise andWhen was the last time you enjoyed a song in a commercial film, you will leave the screen humming, in love.

Hellboy: The Golden Army

Del Toro is good. Simply good. The writer and director, Guillermo Del Toro, is back on the franchise and smartly, the last time. After compromising aplenty in the first installment, Del Toro is set loose and a beat of his own drum in this chapter. And going full "nerd", if I can, he has sprinkled so much of mythology in this comic book world that he might as well had started from the scratch. And comes with theses fantasies, is one particular scene to drool over. And in here, similar to George Lucas's Star Wars cantina scene, Del Toro is flexing his muscles and opening the box that, I think, came from his basement in his house.

He cannot hide his love. In fact, it is more intimate than The Shape Of Water itself, since there is more room in this world to roam about, he is sticking out branches with wit and guest appearances every now and then. He ups the ante on the previous chapter's questioned action sequences, with fast forward techniques and brilliant editing. But, that is not all. The sword fight might as well be distraction.

Walk through a huge battle scene that comes in the middle of the film. His action isn't particularly action. It is a decision. Del Toro deciding to live up to the size of the banner and commercial cinema as they call it, and not compromising the art behind the razzle dazzle. And so is Ron Pearlman, put with the same decision making issue, a pivotal scene in the film and for the arc of the character. He isn't punching his way out of that antic, there is shame, depression, politics and ethics involved in that scene. Eradicating a problem isn't the problem, the problem is dealing with the aftermath result that takes a toll on him, on Hellboy.… Expand
3 of 4 users found this helpful31
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10
DamienDarko777May 6, 2011
This epic action fantasy is stunning to behold. Del Toro has sneakily crafted the Star Wars of fantasy, filled to the brim with delightfully imaginative eye candy, cool creatures, and plenty of action and humor. I consider this film a work ofThis epic action fantasy is stunning to behold. Del Toro has sneakily crafted the Star Wars of fantasy, filled to the brim with delightfully imaginative eye candy, cool creatures, and plenty of action and humor. I consider this film a work of artistic genius, superior even to the first Hellboy, which was an amazing work in its own right. Anyone who wants to know what heights movies are really capable of should see this immediately.… Expand
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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10
Kai82Sep 15, 2014
A masterpiece of creativity. It is an amazing world that Del Toro created in this movie. The characters are fitting and the villain is not only well done but you can also fell his tortured soul and corrupted noble intentions. The plot is alsoA masterpiece of creativity. It is an amazing world that Del Toro created in this movie. The characters are fitting and the villain is not only well done but you can also fell his tortured soul and corrupted noble intentions. The plot is also off from simple good vs evil or black vs white. Both sides are grey with good intentions and flaws. It is a must watch movie and far better than the first one.… Expand
3 of 7 users found this helpful34
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10
ReubenIsAGodNov 24, 2013
The better movie out of the 2 Hellboy 2 the golden army feels so much more Hellboy then the first film, even though i'm not entirely sure how its plot is related to the comic books, I found Hellboy 2 to be another great film that just felt soThe better movie out of the 2 Hellboy 2 the golden army feels so much more Hellboy then the first film, even though i'm not entirely sure how its plot is related to the comic books, I found Hellboy 2 to be another great film that just felt so amazing and beautiful with great characters, great humor and Amazing action 10/10… Expand
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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10
Ascended333Oct 26, 2021
Hellboy II is solid entertainment, but it’s a shame such blemishes prevent it from
1 of 4 users found this helpful13
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10
Voodoo123Oct 20, 2019
+Top tier production quality
+Excellent cast
+Very impressive screenplay -No sequel to watch after this! H2T Golden Army features a notably larger scale world for the now much more fleshed out characters to inhabit. Having come fresh from+Top tier production quality
+Excellent cast
+Very impressive screenplay
-No sequel to watch after this!

H2T Golden Army features a notably larger scale world for the now much more fleshed out characters to inhabit. Having come fresh from the original, the improvements in the production cost are immediately present along with the noticeable advances in CGI rendering here. It's tough to fully encapsulate in a meta review just how effective an improvement it is as a sequel but I would firmly place H2TGA into Aliens/T2/SW Empire Strikes Back territory. It is a crime against Hollywood the Del Toro Hellboy train stopped at this juncture!!… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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8
ColinCAug 2, 2008
Good summer fun. Not as enjoyable as Iron Man for my money, but still, visually a treat and the story is respectable. If you liked the first Hellboy, I'd imagine you'd like this one too. A good theater movie.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
PaulK.Jul 12, 2008
If you enjoyed the first one, you'll like this. Lots of action, crazy creatures and one menacing elf prince.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
MoisheM.Jul 13, 2008
It's like the best parts of Men In Black,Lord of the Rings,Farscape, a Hong Kong wire work actioner,and a Tim Burton movie all rolled into one.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
MarkB.Aug 1, 2008
Hellboy (Ron Perlman) distrusts authority, is notably short-tempered at times, on other occasions is unduly worried about what people think of him, and he loves cigars, candy, cats and cerveza. In other words, Hellboy is not only MY kind of Hellboy (Ron Perlman) distrusts authority, is notably short-tempered at times, on other occasions is unduly worried about what people think of him, and he loves cigars, candy, cats and cerveza. In other words, Hellboy is not only MY kind of superhero but my kind of guy, and in as historically crowded a slate of superhero movies as 2008 has provided (the cleverly topical Iron Man, the surprisingly smart Incredible Hulk, the initially amusing but ultimately muddled Hancock, and the undeniably inteklligent and well-made but--excuse me while I duck!--overblown, overbaked and overlong The Dark Knight) his movie is absolutely the best of the bunch. Much of the credit goes, of course, to ther unbridled visual imagination of Guillermo del Toro, who brought us the original Hellboy and the astounding Pan's Labyrinth; Hellboy II hits the groiund running by setting up its literal underground-rebellion story in the first few minutes with a remarkable wooden-puppet show, and it never lets up afterwards as del Toro's and his crew's incredible creature effects not only wonderfully blend the inevitable CGI with good old fashioned old school craftsmanship and hard work but leap over the arbitrary species/ genus/ phylum boundaries set in most special-effects movies; heroes, villains and in-betweens include plants and, in the instance of oner memorable character, gases (the individual fitting this classification certainly ACTS like a gaseous substance through most of the movie, too). None of this would matter all that much, of course, if we didn't love the characters (and actors): Perlman's son of Satan who's now fighting for our side (even if our side doesn't duly appreciate him) is appealingly tough-and-tender; he's Bogart with a crablike arm and lobsterlike complexion. His flame-prone girlfriend Liz is played by Selma Blair, a sardonic beauty whose charm is largely generated by the observation that SHE (wrongly) doesn't consider herself very attractive. Best of all is Doug Jones (the superb pantomimist who in Pan's Labyrinth brought a whole new meaning to the term "hand-eye coordination") as Hellboy's semiaquatic sidekick Abraham; in the first Hellboy, del Toro had David Hyde Pierce supply Jones' voice, and I don't know why--nothing against good old Niles Crane, but Jones demonstrates here that he's perfectly capable of speaking for himself. This movie really scores in areas where last year's Spider-Man 3 was only partially successful; it's both a terrific action movie AND romantic comedy-drama. Hellboy II is all about the wildly operatic (especially when liquor-fueled) feelings we have for those we're in love with, and the grand sacrifices we're willing to make. All this leads to the current leading contender for The Best Movie Scene of 2008, as classical buff Abraham and rock-loving Hellboy express their feelings for (and frustrations about) the women in their lives by downing a few brewskis and baying along to Barry Manilow's "Can't Smile Without You". (By the way, isn't it interesting that while nobody will admit to liking Manilow, scores of movies--e.g., Keeping the Faith, You Me & Dupree, Can't Hardly Wait, etc.--repeatedly play or reference his hits?) This endearing and extremely funny sequence encapsulates why Hellboy II, a popcorn movie that values characterization as much as action, is much of a keeper as it is; it may not be a film for all time, like Pan's Labyrinth, but it's certainly the perfect superhero movie for THIS time.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
JamesB.Sep 5, 2008
This movie doesn't try to be anything else! It's fun and visually intensive!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
IanO.Jul 11, 2008
I tell you what I thought Iron Man was good Hellboy 2 is way better than Iron Man you need to see this; this is the 2nd best supier hereo movie of the year (2nd to Dark KNIGHT) you will love hellboys personality!!!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
equality7-2521Jul 12, 2008
Guillermo del Toro rules! he'll never top Pan's Labyrinth but I'd never expect him to (or anyone else for that matter). I love the original Hellboy,and love this one even more! I think Hellboy 3 will become a reality but Guillermo del Toro rules! he'll never top Pan's Labyrinth but I'd never expect him to (or anyone else for that matter). I love the original Hellboy,and love this one even more! I think Hellboy 3 will become a reality but it's going to be 5 years before del Toro gets to it... The Hobbit films will take up a minimum of 4 years to complete.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
HectorG.Jul 13, 2008
A very original take on the superhero genre. Del Toro once again raises the bar for this antihero with dark humour and very charismatic sidekicks. A must see for the summer, specially for the action flick lovers.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
UnclePappyWolfJul 13, 2008
A beautiful movie.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
EverythingIAmJul 14, 2008
I thought Hellboy 2 was a decent movie. The highlight of the movie is easily the character designs, but it had other decent aspects as well. The acting was okay, but where I think the movie is most weak is in the plot. At times the plot got I thought Hellboy 2 was a decent movie. The highlight of the movie is easily the character designs, but it had other decent aspects as well. The acting was okay, but where I think the movie is most weak is in the plot. At times the plot got a little random and it seemed like Del Toro wanted to end the movie, so it remained at a reasonable viewing time. The movie is no Pan's Labyrinth, so don't go into it expecting that, but overall it was a decent summer movie. Oh, and I can't wait for The Hobbit.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
ChadS.Jul 15, 2008
"Hellboy II: The Golden Army" is one of the better comic book adap-..., but I digress. Is it just me, but doesn't Prince Nuada and Princess Nuada(Luke Goss and Anna Walton) remind you of Angelina Jolie and her brother? I thought to "Hellboy II: The Golden Army" is one of the better comic book adap-..., but I digress. Is it just me, but doesn't Prince Nuada and Princess Nuada(Luke Goss and Anna Walton) remind you of Angelina Jolie and her brother? I thought to myself, the deal is cinched if the Prince gets really, really chummy with his sister, then bingo, in the blue man's library, Nuada caresses Nuala's cheek as if there was a history between them. But I digress. Liz(Selma Blair) calls the red guy Red(Ron Perlman) because Hellboy sounds uncomfortably like a racial slur coming from the lips of the bigoted humans that these creatures encounter during their city patrols. Since Liz rechristened him, Red bears no connotation to the red guy's red skin. Red is a proper English name(i.e. Red Buttons, Red Skelton, heck, Redd Foxx, extra consonant notwithstanding), so the evocation of the color should be construed as being either ironical, or incidental, because Liz sees Red as a man, a good man, unlike the people they protect, who just see red. When the city denizens call him out in the streets, they're transforming hell, the place Hellboy hails from, into an expletive, as in "oh, hell!". But I digress. "Hellboy II: The Golden Army", more so than the three "X-Men" movies, calls into question the nature of these so-called superheroes. When Prince Nuada uses the h-word("holocaust"), without a shadow of a doubt, the filmmaker is suggesting that Hellboy and his cohorts are human collaborators. The real hero is the prince. He's fighting the good fight for his kind, against his kind's oppressors, us. One of Abraham's aliases is the Angel of Death(Josef Mengele, hello?), which makes him sound like a Nazi. So do you see what this film is getting at? But I digress. "Hellboy II: The Golden Army" is one of the better comic book adapations you're likely to see this, and the upcoming, summers. It's not just for fanboys.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
michaelJul 15, 2008
Good movie. Fun and entertaining. Script not flawless. Danny Elfman is a bad ass.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
HellBoyJul 17, 2008
I enjoyed the movie with every action scene bigger than the last, except for the final conflict with the golden army. I expected to see the entire army in action reeking havoc but only 10 or so actually get any action. It was like they spent I enjoyed the movie with every action scene bigger than the last, except for the final conflict with the golden army. I expected to see the entire army in action reeking havoc but only 10 or so actually get any action. It was like they spent all the money on previous scenes and couldn't afford the CGI required for the big throw down with the entire army. Other than that great time, great hellboy.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
JohnnyG.Jul 18, 2008
This movie is not for everybody apparently, but it was definitely for me. I give it a 10, not because it is a masterpiece, but because it is close enough that I decided to be kind and round up instead of down. The thing that trips people This movie is not for everybody apparently, but it was definitely for me. I give it a 10, not because it is a masterpiece, but because it is close enough that I decided to be kind and round up instead of down. The thing that trips people about this movie I believe is that they don't know what to expect to take from the movie, even afterwards. Is it a comedy, is it a serious drama, is it really a superhero flick? Is it Pan's Labrynth meets LOTR meets MIB? The truth is, it's a little bit of everything, which means everybody can take something from this film, as long as you can stand the main character being a red, beer-drinking, demon and his sidekick a clumsy, goofy, brainiac fish-man.… Expand
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9
samc.Jul 20, 2008
Hellboy 2 was great. There were lots of cool action sequences, and some stunning (but sometimes bizarre) visuals. Hilarious at times and exciting at others, Hellboy 2 needs to be watched at least once. Plus, Selma Blair was pretty sexy in Hellboy 2 was great. There were lots of cool action sequences, and some stunning (but sometimes bizarre) visuals. Hilarious at times and exciting at others, Hellboy 2 needs to be watched at least once. Plus, Selma Blair was pretty sexy in her panties...… Expand
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10
johnwJul 20, 2008
Del Toro's great visuals and imagination makes it unforgettably entertaining.
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7
JayH.Nov 5, 2008
As with all of Guillermo Del Toro's films, it is visually incredible, that alone makes the film worth watching. It has the touches of humor like the original. Amazing special effects but they take precedence over character development. As with all of Guillermo Del Toro's films, it is visually incredible, that alone makes the film worth watching. It has the touches of humor like the original. Amazing special effects but they take precedence over character development. It's glossier and more shallow than the original, but still an amazing film.… Expand
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9
TonyO.Dec 4, 2008
For me, one of the most enjoyable films of the year. Lots of laughs, lots of weird monsters, lots of fun. Admittedly there was a little laboured pseudo-moral angst about the harsh lot of well-meaning monsters that defend mankind against For me, one of the most enjoyable films of the year. Lots of laughs, lots of weird monsters, lots of fun. Admittedly there was a little laboured pseudo-moral angst about the harsh lot of well-meaning monsters that defend mankind against eldritch forces or whatever, (Shock! Horror! The plebs just don't care about the love life and well being of aforesaid monsters). Thankfully the soul searchingdoes not duplicate the whining of the last X-men movies. More Hellboy please. The franchise has Spiderman and Batman well and truly on the ropes, as far as I am concerned.… Expand
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9
JessE.Jul 11, 2008
I enjoyed this movie so much I will be going back for a second viewing. Ron Perlman was once again charismatic and funny and the visuals and action set pieces were downright stunning. Everything is so good in this fun movie that is a must I enjoyed this movie so much I will be going back for a second viewing. Ron Perlman was once again charismatic and funny and the visuals and action set pieces were downright stunning. Everything is so good in this fun movie that is a must see for action film fans.… Expand
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8
TDKinDallasJul 10, 2008
Hard to choose which one (Iron Man, Hulk, Hellboy and no I did not forget any) is better so far this summer, but Hellboy is a don't miss! The special effects, action and "guillermagination" are plentiful and amazing. The only thing I Hard to choose which one (Iron Man, Hulk, Hellboy and no I did not forget any) is better so far this summer, but Hellboy is a don't miss! The special effects, action and "guillermagination" are plentiful and amazing. The only thing I could have asked for was more of it. I hope the director's cut is about 30 minutes or more longer.… Expand
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7
AndrewR.Jul 10, 2008
A good movie. Maybe not liking it as much as I might, Maybe because of the hype.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
JacobK.Jul 13, 2008
I wanted to love this movie. Desperately I longed to embrace this as a movie I would forsake the Dark Knight to see. I am quietly relenting that sentiment. I adored the first Hellboy, however, this one seems to lack the personal touch that I wanted to love this movie. Desperately I longed to embrace this as a movie I would forsake the Dark Knight to see. I am quietly relenting that sentiment. I adored the first Hellboy, however, this one seems to lack the personal touch that had Hellboy confronting the nature of his own existence. Hellboy 2 seems content to act as an entertaining, though sadly forgettable tale to keep the crowds amused until Hellboy 3 can shake the mythos to it's core. that brings many good, even great things to the table. However, Hellboy 2 suffers from inappropriate characterization, and unnecessary scenes that hurt more than they help. The fight scenes are good, most of the dialog is fresh and endearing. A fine movie. I would place it above the Hulk, however it falls desperately short of Iron Man or (I'm guessing) The Dark Knight. Go in there with expectations too high, and you will inevitably leave dissatisfied. Go in there without a clue and you will be pleasantly surprised. either way this is a summer move that should not be missed.… Expand
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8
ConcreteTesterJul 13, 2008
Better then the first. Well made. The costumes and story worked together. Defiinitely worth seeing in the theater.
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8
SteveGJul 14, 2008
It is precisely Del Toro's not taking this material too seriously that makes this film entertaining. It is like a comic book, both visually and in content. And that's fun. This is not the Godfather, nor is it even Pan's It is precisely Del Toro's not taking this material too seriously that makes this film entertaining. It is like a comic book, both visually and in content. And that's fun. This is not the Godfather, nor is it even Pan's Labyrinth, but the movie is fun to watch and a pleasant summer distraction.… Expand
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10
JohnE.Jul 15, 2008
A fantastic film. Very satisfying, and does not try to be anything other than what it is. An action packed summer film with really cool special effects and creatures. Tired of all of you negetive people out there. You try making a movie then A fantastic film. Very satisfying, and does not try to be anything other than what it is. An action packed summer film with really cool special effects and creatures. Tired of all of you negetive people out there. You try making a movie then try to critise something like this… Expand
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10
AndrewO.Jul 15, 2008
Great humor, awesome effects, amazing movie.
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10
ChadSJul 17, 2008
I utterly cannot believe how many negative reviews there have been for this film. I don't know if people have come to expect every movie del toro comes out with to be oscar worthy or what, but Hellboy 2 does everything it should do I utterly cannot believe how many negative reviews there have been for this film. I don't know if people have come to expect every movie del toro comes out with to be oscar worthy or what, but Hellboy 2 does everything it should do right. First of all lets realize that this is a summer comic book movie. To re-emphasize that, it is a summer comic book movie. With that being said, i expected to laugh, see tons of action, and have great visual effects, Hellboy 2 delivers on all accounts. Sure the storyline is basically just dude wants to take over world and hellboy has to save them and del toro doesnt dive into horrendous amounts of back story to tell you why everything is happening, but seriously why would you want that from a summer comic book movie. Give me a break. The action is great, the comedy had the entire, and i repeat, entire audience laughing, and trust me the movie looked extremely good. Hellboy 2 is the best comic book movie i have seen by far.… Expand
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8
BarbaraA.Jul 18, 2008
The first movie set up such great expectations that just weren't totally fulfilled as is often the fate of sequels. Still Hellboy is great super hero in a not so great time, providing a good escape of everday life.
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10
RafaelL.Jul 18, 2008
In this movie we can see other kind of hero. He want to be a human like us and be accepted, he has to fight versus his ideas but also versus villains. Del Toro made axcellent movie.
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7
TrajanLJul 21, 2008
It was an ok movie. a few too many story lines which slowed things down. and the comic relief wasn't particularly comical or necessary.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
boogerboyJul 24, 2008
Opening sequence is amazing. Really fun movie.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
SteveF.Jul 8, 2008
Director Guillermo Del Toro makes Hellboy II a must-see movie with the heft of his epic, mythic vision. Furthermore, his direction and creativity are such that he turns what would have been a standard, wondrous fantasy world into one that Director Guillermo Del Toro makes Hellboy II a must-see movie with the heft of his epic, mythic vision. Furthermore, his direction and creativity are such that he turns what would have been a standard, wondrous fantasy world into one that seems everyday in nature, and thus more sublime. Best art direction and visual effects so far this year. The first Hellboy movie was cartoonish, and was fun and enjoyable mostly due to the curmudgeonly movie namesake. The sequel contains the same fun and some predictable and standard Hollywood shtick and humor, which is handled with class and persuasiveness. In the end, with what would normally have been a standard fantasy story, our star storyteller, Del Toro, sweeps the movie-goer into his mythic world.… Expand
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10
NickBAug 15, 2008
Most satisfying surrealistic action fantasy movie I've ever seen, and noticeably better than the first Hellboy. I may have watched Dark Knight and thought, "here is a film which transcends its genre", but with Hellboy 2 I saw a film Most satisfying surrealistic action fantasy movie I've ever seen, and noticeably better than the first Hellboy. I may have watched Dark Knight and thought, "here is a film which transcends its genre", but with Hellboy 2 I saw a film that had mastered its own genre, and made it fun, as well.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
VezarAug 17, 2008
Tsk, tsk! You can't recognize greatness when is front you, because you are so closed minded, this is one of the best fantasy movies ever, and a true work of art.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
NickAug 31, 2008
Loved it - much more so than the first film. I found it frequently beautiful and moving, enjoyed all the performances. My only qualm is that the 2nd movement before the finale needed some tightening up... it slowed down just a little too Loved it - much more so than the first film. I found it frequently beautiful and moving, enjoyed all the performances. My only qualm is that the 2nd movement before the finale needed some tightening up... it slowed down just a little too much for my liking. All in all though I thought it was great.… Expand
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9
TrevorSep 26, 2008
Ron Perlman reprises his role as Hellboy in this much anticipated sequel to the first film. This time the red devil finds himself fighting against the golden army, which is this mystical force capable of destroying the world. Writer/Director Ron Perlman reprises his role as Hellboy in this much anticipated sequel to the first film. This time the red devil finds himself fighting against the golden army, which is this mystical force capable of destroying the world. Writer/Director Guilermo Del Toro crafted himself a visually arresting film full of wierd looking creatures and environments. Yet again I found myself delved into the well made storyline and awesome visual effects. Selma Blair and Doug Jones reprise their roles as Hellboy's sidekicks and both add on to the good storyline. I was impressed with Del toro's work on this film and surely do hope he delivers with The Hobbit. I highly recommend you see this film when it hits DVD or Blu Ray.… Expand
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8
MattA.Jan 10, 2009
I heard mixed things about Hellboy II upon going into it. I love Guillermo del Toro's visual style, and knew i wouldn't be disappointed with that. The story, however, i found to be very interesting. I love the ancient lore that I heard mixed things about Hellboy II upon going into it. I love Guillermo del Toro's visual style, and knew i wouldn't be disappointed with that. The story, however, i found to be very interesting. I love the ancient lore that surrounds the series. The characters were all interesting and fun to have around. It took itself seriously, but not too seriously. I thoroughly enjoyed it, and had a good time. Not perfect, but great non-the less.… Expand
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8
AlexG.Nov 1, 2009
Very solid sequel, with good humor along the way. Solid pacing and tongue-in-cheek action sequences. Pretty entertaining film overall, with a few plot holes and too many story lines to feel so involved as the only weakness to the film. I Very solid sequel, with good humor along the way. Solid pacing and tongue-in-cheek action sequences. Pretty entertaining film overall, with a few plot holes and too many story lines to feel so involved as the only weakness to the film. I love the misfit type vibe from the central characters.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
AronJ.Dec 1, 2008
I don't necessarily like the editing of this movie, but honestly its easy to get passed, the movie is written well, acting is good, the plot is fun, and the action is good.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
DonnaT.Jul 12, 2008
I loved it. Can't wait to see Hellboy 3.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
AlP.Jul 12, 2008
A very enjoyable movie expanding the charactor developement from the previous Hellboy. I loved the addition of Johann Krauss and his interaction with Hellboy and rest of the gang.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
StephenC.Jul 13, 2008
I loved it. A perfect mix of Comedy and Non-stop action! What a year for Superhero movies! A must see.
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8
RCMJul 13, 2008
Beautiful film. As a spectacle, Hellboy 2 is one the most creative comic adaptations ever produced. Del Toro's imagination in fantasy stuff rings out with great intensity. The performances are dead on and there are many fine comedy Beautiful film. As a spectacle, Hellboy 2 is one the most creative comic adaptations ever produced. Del Toro's imagination in fantasy stuff rings out with great intensity. The performances are dead on and there are many fine comedy beats sprinkled in the otherwise formulaic screenplay. Overall, definitely worth seeing!… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
BrianM.Jul 13, 2008
The most creative movie of the year.
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9
[Anonymous]Jul 13, 2008
"Hellboy II is retread and blase, boring and all-too familiar. Del Toro is sloughing through a look which he has been rehashing for a number of years, cribbing from one film to the next. What is most fatal to Hellboy II is the lack of any "Hellboy II is retread and blase, boring and all-too familiar. Del Toro is sloughing through a look which he has been rehashing for a number of years, cribbing from one film to the next. What is most fatal to Hellboy II is the lack of any seriousness." You telling me giant self repairing magic coins ain't serious?… Expand
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7
hollycJul 17, 2008
As others have said--this is a fun film--lots of eye candy--but don't pay too close attention to the plot/story/LOTR-clone-mythos as it's definitely lacking in that dept. In fact, what makes all that forgivable is that the director As others have said--this is a fun film--lots of eye candy--but don't pay too close attention to the plot/story/LOTR-clone-mythos as it's definitely lacking in that dept. In fact, what makes all that forgivable is that the director doesn't seem to take it too serious either (you could say Hellboy himself doesn't take it too seriously). And I agree with others, Selma Blair --both her character and her acting are placeholders here--barely an effort made. hopefully next time (if there is a next time) they'll invest a lot more money into a much better script.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
MikeNov 23, 2008
Very enjoyable, a lot better then the first hellboy. A movie not to be taken seriously. It dragged a little in the beginning. But overall a good movie.
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8
akshatmahajanSep 21, 2020
I loved this movie. It was entertaining and well-paced, just like the first part. In many cases, sequels are not good/ satisfactory but this was one of the good sequel. Everything was good just like the first part

Pearlman played the role ofI loved this movie. It was entertaining and well-paced, just like the first part. In many cases, sequels are not good/ satisfactory but this was one of the good sequel. Everything was good just like the first part

Pearlman played the role of Hellboy very nicely. All of the other significant characters are equally well-presented by their respective actors.

The movie moved well, didn't get stalled anywhere, and both the action and drama were moderated with smooth transitions between each.

Overall, I would recommend this movie to everyone. You will surely love it.… Expand
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7
JJ2FAS4UDec 29, 2021
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8
ResoulMay 3, 2023
Not as good as the first one but still a really good movie and still better then most super hero movies, and not just the "bad" ones that have been coming out lately, its 100% one of the top ten best superhero movies ever even tho the firstNot as good as the first one but still a really good movie and still better then most super hero movies, and not just the "bad" ones that have been coming out lately, its 100% one of the top ten best superhero movies ever even tho the first movie is better but that just goes to show how good the first movie was.… Expand
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