Hellboy: 20 Easter Eggs And References Explained

2. Abe Sapien

Hellboy Easter Eggs
Dark Horse

In an unusual move, one of the most iconic characters from the Hellboy franchise - that is, the aquatic Abe Sapien - is introduced in the very final scene of the film.

When Hellboy, Alice and Daimo go to investigate the Poseidon Cult, their journey leads them to a large, water-filled tank, complete with a gold-plate that contains the phrase 'Icthyo Sapien' - a direct mirror of Abe Sapien's introduction in the comic universe. This is completed by Abe's webbed hand pressing against the inside of the glass, in a clear direct reference to the amphibian's beginnings.

While Sapien's intro is much different time-wise than his comic counterpart, it's a welcome surprise to see the much-beloved character feature in the film, even in a profoundly minor role.

Contributor
Contributor

I like my comics like I like my coffee - in huge, unquestionably unhealthy doses.