Review of Pan's Labyrinth (2006) by Tatsuhito K — 26 Jan 2018

Guillermo del Toro's best film. No question about it.

After seeing "The Shape of Water", it was clear that I had to revisit this film and see which one I like more. I remember seeing the film and loving it when it first came out, but I never got a chance to rewatch it over the last 10 years. It was time for me to get back to that labyrinth and the fantastical world del Toro has created.

Now it is official: "Pan's Labyrinth" is one of the greatest fantasy movies of all time. It is also one of the saddest films I've ever seen.

The thing that struck me the most is how dark and brutal this story is. Although it certainly has some fantastical elements that take you to a different world, its core is firmly rooted in the reality of war and how that brings nothing but tragedy to everyone's lives. It is a perfect anti-war film that happens to have some dark fantasy stuff in it.

I have absolutely no complaints in regards to its production value and technical accomplishments. The cinematography, costumes, set & creature design, the score (that lullaby breaks my heart every time), it's perfect.

That said, I can't imagine myself watching this again and again like I will with "The Shape of Water". That movie makes me feel hopeful, whereas this one takes my heart out and puts it in a blender.

Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to make myself a nice cup of hot chocolate, wrap myself in a cozy blanket, and watch Paddington for the 15th time.