Warning! This article contains spoilers for The Bondsman.
Fans of supernatural thrillers have a great treat in store, even as they eagerly anticipate the release of Constantine 2. While the sequel will take time to reach theaters, viewers can immerse themselves in a similar Blumhouse production titled The Bondsman. The original Constantine, featuring Keanu Reeves and based on a respected graphic novel series, struggled to make a significant impact during its initial launch in 2005, receiving a lukewarm critical response with a Rotten Tomatoes score of just 46%.
From a financial perspective, the movie barely achieved profitability, grossing $230.9 million against a production budget of $70–100 million. Over time, however, the film has cultivated a dedicated fanbase, appreciating its unique interpretation of the titular exorcist and his ominous surroundings. Despite its rocky start, Constantine’s enduring popularity led to the greenlighting of a sequel. In the interim, fans can explore The Bondsman, a series that resonates with similar themes.
Exploring Similarities: The Bondsman and Constantine
Demon Hunters at the Core
Both The Bondsman and Constantine feature protagonists who engage in the dangerous task of hunting demons, striving to banish them before they unleash chaos upon humanity. These demon hunters aspire to alter their grim destinies through virtuous acts, yet their morally ambiguous motivations pose a risk to their potential paths to redemption.
Despite its concise runtime of 121 minutes, Constantine often excels in enriching its lore with a diverse array of demonic adversaries, providing depth beyond the standard portrayal of evil entities. Conversely, The Bondsman faces challenges in fleshing out its demonic mythology, leaning instead on intense action sequences to engage viewers. However, this series offers a refreshing blend of horror and humor while subtly critiquing modern corporate structures, making it a fitting complement for those waiting for Constantine 2.
A Morally Complex Protagonist: Kevin Bacon’s Role in The Bondsman
A Darker Backstory for Hub Halloran
Image via Prime Video
Within Constantine, John Constantine arrives in Hell due to a tragic suicide attempt, driving him to confront demons with the hope of bargaining for his soul. In contrast, Hub Halloran, portrayed by Kevin Bacon in The Bondsman, presents an even more complex moral landscape. His backstory involves a fatal incident where a murder, driven by rage, takes a tragic turn when he accidentally kills an innocent woman instead of his intended target, creating a character riddled with moral conflicts.
Bacon’s nuanced performance vividly captures the inner turmoil of his character, making The Bondsman a noteworthy watch for fans anticipating Constantine 2.