Helstrom [2020]

Helstrom is one of the few horror shows that I got excited to watch once it officially started streaming outside USA via Star on Disney Plus.

To my surprise, Helstorm (the series) is taken straight from the Marvel Comics of the same name. The show has some remarkable things going for it and not so good ones.

Set in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, viewers have expectations that were just not met. From the basic VFX to sometimes the “plain and one note” acting, Helstorm could have done better. Specially with a bigger budget in what was supposed to be season two.

To no one’s surprise, the Marvel restructuring that happened late 2019 (after the show finished filming) resulted in a massive cancellation of all Marvel TV shows (You can read more about it here). Even with demonic superpowers, Helstorm wasn’t saved.

On the other hand, the storytelling was captivating. I didn’t mind some slowness in the first couple of episodes, or even the low budget VFX. There was something there that kept me roped in.

As Yen (played by Alain Uy), I was a keeper! I really hope we’ll see more of the Helstorm family. Or more of “The Blood” and demonic horror-based spinoffs from the MCU now that we have witches and “The Darkhold” officially joining in Phase 4 thanks to WandaVision as well as vampires.

Finally, a shoutout to the stars of the show: Tom Austen, Sydney Lemmon for their amazing acting. And a special mention to Elizabeth Marvel (perfect last name) who was a marvel in portraying a mother who’s possessed by a demo as well as the original soul with perfection.

Should you watch it?

It really depends. If you don’t mind a standalone story about demons possessing people, then be my guest. I know I loved it. However, if you were expecting a bigger plot, this show won’t give you that reward.

Where can I watch it?

Helstrom is available exclusively on Hulu in USA and Disney+ everywhere else.