Hellboy Movies in Order: The Hellboy franchise has captivated audiences with its blend of supernatural adventure, folklore, and dark humor, making it one of the most iconic comic book adaptations in cinema. Spanning four live-action films, two animated features, short films, and various spin-offs, the franchise chronicles the thrilling escapades of Hellboy, a half-demon (Cambion) and Bureau for Paranormal Research and Defense (B.P.R.D.) agent whose true name is Anung Un Rama.
The Hellboy Movies in Order include Guillermo del Toro’s widely acclaimed Hellboy (2004) and its sequel Hellboy II: The Golden Army (2008), followed by the 2019 reboot starring David Harbour, and the upcoming 2024 film, Hellboy: The Crooked Man. Alongside these films, animated adaptations such as Sword of Storms (2006) and Blood and Iron (2007) further expand the lore. Despite mixed box office success, the Hellboy films have earned a devoted fan base due to their stunning visual effects, compelling storytelling, and faithful adaptation of Mike Mignola’s beloved comics. With a new installment on the horizon, the legacy of Hellboy continues to grow, promising more dark fantasy adventures for fans worldwide.
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How to watch Hellboy movies in chronological order
Here’s a clear breakdown of the Hellboy movie chronology and timeline, including both the original Guillermo del Toro series and the reboot Standalone:
The Guillermo del Toro Hellboy Universe (Connected Timeline)
1. Hellboy (2004)
Hellboy (2004) marked the cinematic debut of the Dark Horse Comics character, directed by Guillermo del Toro. The film follows Hellboy, a demon raised by humans, who works for the Bureau for Paranormal Research and Defense (BPRD) to battle supernatural threats. When the resurrected sorcerer Rasputin attempts to use Hellboy to unleash the apocalypse, he must defy his dark destiny. Starring Ron Perlman, Selma Blair, and John Hurt, the movie blends action, fantasy, and horror. Grossing $99.8 million, it received positive reviews and led to Hellboy II: The Golden Army (2008) and two reboots, expanding the Hellboy film franchise.
2. Hellboy II: The Golden Army (2008)
Hellboy II: The Golden Army (2008) expands upon the world introduced in Hellboy (2004), blending fantasy, action, and mythology under Guillermo del Toro’s visionary direction. The film follows Hellboy (Ron Perlman) and the Bureau for Paranormal Research and Defense (B.P.R.D.) as they battle Prince Nuada, a rogue elf determined to awaken the legendary Golden Army and reclaim the world for magical creatures. Featuring breathtaking visuals, elaborate creature designs, and emotional depth, the movie earned praise for its imaginative storytelling and compelling performances. Despite its success, the franchise was rebooted in 2019, with a second reboot, Hellboy: The Crooked Man, announced in 2023.
The Hellboy Reboot (Separate Continuity)
1. Hellboy (2019)
Hellboy (2019) is a dark and action-packed superhero film that serves as a reboot of the Hellboy franchise, drawing inspiration from multiple comic book arcs, including Darkness Calls and The Wild Hunt. Directed by Neil Marshall, the film stars David Harbour as the titular half-demon hero, alongside Milla Jovovich as the villainous Blood Queen, Nimue. Set in a world of supernatural threats, Hellboy battles his own inner demons while preventing Nimue’s apocalyptic plans. Despite its R-rating, intense action sequences, and strong practical effects, the film was met with critical disappointment and underperformed at the box office, grossing $55.1 million worldwide.
2. Hellboy: The Crooked Man (2024)
“Hellboy: The Crooked Man” (2024) is a supernatural horror adaptation of Mike Mignola’s acclaimed comic series, marking a fresh take on the Hellboy franchise. Directed by Brian Taylor, with a script co-written by Mignola and Christopher Golden, the film stars Jack Kesy as the titular character. The story is set in 1959, where Hellboy and B.P.R.D. agent Bobbie Jo Song uncover dark Appalachian witchcraft while facing the sinister Crooked Man. Featuring eerie folklore, demonic entities, and high-stakes supernatural battles, the film embraces horror elements while staying faithful to the source material. Though receiving mixed reviews, it has resonated with Hellboy fans.
Hellboy Animated films
1. Hellboy: Sword of Storms (2006)
Hellboy: Sword of Storms (2006) is the first animated film in the Hellboy franchise, expanding on the universe established by the 2004 live-action adaptation. Directed by Phil Weinstein and animated by Madhouse, the film follows Hellboy as he is transported to an alternate dimension resembling ancient Japan. While wielding the mystical Sword of Storms, Hellboy faces legendary Yōkai, including kappa, rokurokubi, and tengu, while trying to prevent the resurrection of two demonic brothers, Thunder and Lightning. The Bureau for Paranormal Research and Defense (B.P.R.D.), including Abe Sapien and Liz Sherman, battles supernatural forces to aid Hellboy. This Emmy-nominated film set the stage for its sequel, Hellboy: Blood and Iron (2007).
2. Hellboy: Blood and Iron (2007)
Hellboy: Blood and Iron (2007) is the second animated installment in the Hellboy franchise, following Hellboy: Sword of Storms. Premiering on March 10, 2007, on Cartoon Network, the film later re-aired in 2008 to coincide with Hellboy II: The Golden Army. Written by Tad Stones and Mike Mignola, the movie blends supernatural horror with action, drawing inspiration from Hellboy: Wake the Devil. The plot delves into Professor Trevor Bruttenholm’s haunting past, as he confronts Erzsebet Ondrushko, a vampire who seeks immortality through dark magic. Featuring intense battles, eerie apparitions, and a confrontation with the goddess Hecate, Blood and Iron enriches Hellboy’s cinematic journey.
How to Watch Hellboy in Order
1. Guillermo del Toro’s Series: – Hellboy (2004) → Hellboy II: The Golden Army (2008).
2. Reboot: – Hellboy (2019) as a standalone.
The del Toro films are widely considered the definitive cinematic take, while the reboot appeals to fans of the comics’ grittier tone.
How many Hellboy movies are there?
The Hellboy franchise includes four live-action films: Hellboy (2004), Hellboy II: The Golden Army (2008), Hellboy (2019), and Hellboy: The Crooked Man (2024). It also features two animated films.
All Hellboy Movies in Order of Release Date
Here is the list of Hellboy films in order of released date:
Live-action films:
1. Hellboy — April 2, 2004
2. Hellboy II: The Golden Army — July 11, 2008
3. Hellboy — April 12, 2019
4. Hellboy: The Crooked Man — October 8, 2024
Animated films:
1. Hellboy: Sword of Storms — October 28, 2006
2. Hellboy: Blood and Iron — March 10, 2007
Conclusion:
The Hellboy Movies in Order showcase a dynamic franchise that has evolved through live-action films, animated features, and spin-offs, captivating audiences with its blend of dark fantasy, action, and mythology. Beginning with Guillermo del Toro’s acclaimed 2004 and 2008 films, the series saw a reboot in 2019 and a fresh take with Hellboy: The Crooked Man (2024). Despite setbacks, including canceled sequels and mixed critical reception, Hellboy remains an iconic character in comic book adaptations. With its rich storytelling, supernatural themes, and dedicated fan base, the Hellboy franchise continues to leave a lasting impact on the genre. For More: Wikipedia.org
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