Hellboy and the BPRD: Long Night at Goloski Station One-Shot (Spoiler Free Review)

After just one read through the remarkably rewarding new Hellboy and the B.P.R.D. one shot, it’s easy to see that Mignola and company have yet another brilliant issue on their hands.

Aptly titled Long Night at Goloski Station, this new spooky one-shot quickly throws readers into a demonic-filled standoff which Hellboy stumbles into at just the right time. The story is, in typical Hellboy-verse fashion, steeped in mythology and not lacking on the horror by any means. The best part, however? It is wonderfully enjoyable all on its own. You needn’t have read years worth of Hellboy stories (though you absolutely should because they are worth it) to follow along with what transpires in these pages.

Releasing on October 30th frames this issue quite perfectly. It dives deep into the horror roots of the franchise, bringing back the Baba Yaga for a momentous few panels and course, more than a few demons. It’s a near-perfect celebration of all things Halloween with a story that is essentially everything you could want in a horror. While Mignola is certainly firing on all cylinders with a powerful story, I can’t help but draw attention to Hellboy artist newcomer Matt Smith (Barbarian Lord, Lake of Fire). His work is heavily inspired by none other than Mignola himself, and that passion comes through in every single panel of Hellboy & the BPRD: Long Night at Goloski Station. 

From the chiseled Hellboy to the uniquely charming cast of characters around him, we are treated to visuals that both recall fond memories of classic Hellboy stories as well as give insight into just how far the franchise has come. It feels like a love letter to everything fans adore about the long-running series and I don’t say that lightly. But the visuals simply wouldn’t be complete without the Dave Stewart’s iconic colors. Heavy blacks throughout every panel accentuated by vivid pops of color help capture the aesthetic we’ve all come to love as fans while still continuing to push it in interesting new directions.

The only complaint I could muster, and it’s a minor one especially for longtime fans of the franchise who are more accustomed to this type of storytelling, is the eventual lack of consequences at the conclusion. Mignola has a magnificent ability to tell such poignant stories that simply end. Not everything is wrapped up and presented nicely for the reader, sometimes it requires your participation. In Hellboy & the BPRD: Long Night at Goloski Station, the ending may feel sudden, but it puts the entire story into perspective and will leave you not just contemplating what you’ve just read but actually exciting to read it just one more time.

Ultimately, this is a one-shot that honestly couldn’t come with higher recommendations for both new and longtime fans. You might not expect it, but it’s the type of book that will blow you away with both it’s powerful storytelling and artistic prowess.

Buy this book!