Warning: Spoilers ahead for The Bondsman!
The Prime original series The Bondsman introduces viewers to a morally flawed protagonist drawn from the depths of Hell to recapture escaped demons. This concept closely mirrors the 1998 television series Brimstone, yet with a refreshing twist. Positioned firmly in the horror-comedy genre, The Bondsman presents a unique blend reminiscent of The Evil Dead and The X-Files, appealing to a broad audience who appreciate dark humor coupled with thrilling escapades.
A Modern Twist on a Cult Classic: The Bondsman
Echoes of Brimstone Resonate Strongly

The original Brimstone, which aired between 1998 and 1999, featured Peter Horton as a detective who, after killing the man who assaulted his wife, finds himself caught in a cycle of brutality. Following his own death, John Glover’s depiction of the Devil offers him a second chance to reclaim 113 souls that have escaped Hell, a task he accomplishes by literally removing tattoos from his body with each success.
While visually distinct, the two series share thematic similarities. Much like the titular character of The Bondsman, Stone from Brimstone possesses regenerative powers that allow him to withstand injuries that would normally be fatal to humans, albeit with some limits in The Bondsman.
A Worthy Rival: Brimstone Had Much to Offer
Navigating the X-Files Phenomenon

The early 1990s witnessed a transformative era for horror on television, largely due to the influential works of Twin Peaks and The X-Files. A large number of series sought to emulate this success, including American Gothic and Millennium. Among this group, Brimstone stood out, seamlessly merging the elements of detective fiction with horror storytelling.
Demons in Brimstone could only be returned to Hell through unique methods, such as shooting them in the eyes – a metaphorical representation of aiming for the “windows to the soul.”Its distinct noir aesthetic set it apart from contemporaries, while its character dynamics offered a contrast to the iconic duo of Mulder and Scully.
Despite developing a devoted fanbase, Brimstone‘s unfortunate cancellation stemmed from erratic scheduling and poor ratings, leading to abrupt halting of its production during its 14th episode. Enthusiastic fans voiced their discontent, but the series never made a comeback.
Key Differences Between The Bondsman and Brimstone
Contrasting Tones: A Lighter Approach





Even with notable superficial similarities, The Bondsman diverges significantly from its predecessor, particularly in tone and character presence. Unlike Brimstone, which prominently featured Satan as a key role, The Bondsman opts for a different cast, including Jolene Purdy’s more optimistic supervisor, who gradually reveals her layers as the story unfolds.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of sunny Georgia, the series embodies a brighter and more cheerful aesthetic compared to Brimstone‘s darker, brooding atmosphere. Viewers seeking a serious and character-driven narrative may find solace in Brimstone, whereas those looking for a fun and exhilarating adventure should gravitate towards The Bondsman.
While Brimstone was constrained by network standards in terms of language and violence, The Bondsman revels in creative liberties reminiscent of the splattery antics of The Evil Dead. Its practical effects add a tangible quality, although some CGI moments fall short of expectations and can appear unconvincing.
In conclusion, ardent fans of character-driven horror should revisit Brimstone, while those craving an amusing action-adventure can enjoy The Bondsman. Though Brimstone fell victim to its abrupt cancellation and lacks a comprehensive media release, it remains an underappreciated classic worth rediscovering.