Reread (last time was ~2005?).

A novel combination of investigation/procedural, Lovecraftian horror, and superhero pulp - Hellboy is not only unique, but is actually good. Graphic novels very often have the issue of "pick 2": good art, good story/writing, unique setting, good action. This first volume manages to accomplish all four at once. Characters are a little underdeveloped but keep in mind this is part one in a large series, so only a fraction of the story. We're introduced to three characters and get a lot of very subtle characterization, just enough so that we're interested and want to read further volumes. The writing is a little dense for a graphic novel at times but this is refreshing and, again, unique. Mignola is stylistically one of my favorite graphic novel artists around: the grimness of his aesthetic is beautiful and lends itself well to creating some fascinating action setpieces.

The first bit of this moves incredibly fast and I am assuming for now that later volumes will have flashback sequences - we're introduced to Bruttenholm and he's made out to be a very important figure but barely gets any exploration or indication as to why he's important, the characters basically state "he's important" without any explanation. This first volume doesn't really stand alone well, which is good business I suppose but also a little frustrating (though at least there's plenty on the shelves here at my library so I don't have to wait too long).

Definitely recommended for any Lovecraft fans or superhero fans looking for something with a little more substance.