Review of Pan's Labyrinth (2006) by Kay K — 08 Jan 2013

The film captures the theme of escapism faultlessly, switching between reality and fantasy with smooth transitions and leaving the audience wondering what is real and what isn't. The harsh reality that is Ofelia's life with the sadistic army officer Captain Vidal is beautifully balanced with the equally dark but vastly more enjoyable fantasy land she creates. Ivana Baquero, who was only 12 when the film was made is an incredible child actor who was able to portray such extreme emotions for someone so young. You really believed she was upset/scared/furious at all the appropriate moments and she led the audience on her journey very naturally.

It's completely warranted that the film won 3 Oscars for it's visual elements (Art Direction, Cinematography and Makeup) because it was truly a treat to watch. The creatures were straight out of a vivid imagination and they moved and spoke as characters rather than just people in funny costume.

And finally, I'm a big lover of horror and gore and this film incorporated that in moments that took me completely by surprise. One moment I was in awe of the beautiful creatures and sets and the next someone was getting brutally beaten or killed. But it wasn't excessive and it was done so artistically that it really just added to the overall brilliance of the film. If you haven't seen it, do yourself a favour and rent it out. Yes, there are subtitles and they are a deterrent for some people but if you can overcome that you won't regret it.