Pan's Labyrinth

NOTE: I realize Pan's Labyrinth released over a year ago, but I have not been able to officially review it until now.

"The world is a cruel place." -- Carmen

This movie is a different sort of fantasy movie and its definitely not one for the kids. AS the posters read, it's a fantasy tale for adults as it is a dark tale of a child who is surrounded by such a horrific reality, she escapes to a fantasy world where she has the potential of becoming a princess: any young girl's dream.

So how horrific is her reality? Young Ofelia (the child) is forced to live with her stepfather Captain Vidal, a man who can bash in young man's face with a glass bottle without a second thought. A man who will kill anyone who crosses him, even his closest of friends. A man whose only weakness is his pride. He would make a great dictator. It's a very bleak reality and Ofelia is expected to behave as she is instructed and be a good little girl.

However, there is this whole other world she wants to explore, guided by fairies, where she meets creatures like The Faun and the Pale Man. This is where the movie truly stands out. The designs and costumes for these two creatures are stunning and stand as a true testament to the classic filmmaking techniques of yesteryear. The Faun itself is a combination of costume, prosthetics and stilts to pull off the movement and feel of the creature. The Pale Man was truly a creepy beast, almost zombie-like.

In this world, Ofelia is given three tasks by The Faun to complete by the time the full moon rises. While not in the world, she has to cope with her pregnant, and very sick mother, and the demands of the very strict and controlling Captain Vidal. Whenever the real world become to much for Ofelia to handle, she runs off to the fantasy world to complete another task.

The basic plot is simple to understand, but its the many little details that truly make this the fantasy movie to watch (if you haven't by now). Nothing is set in stone, and the one question that remains in your mind by the end is by far one of the most discussed topics of this movie: Is the fantasy world Ofelia visits real, or is it all in her imagination? Since both world's are so well portrayed, and the fantasy world is so well integrated amongst the real world, both sides of the debate are valid views of the movie.

So here's my challenge to you: Watch Pan's Labyrinth and join the debate. Which side will you choose?

Final rating: 9.0 out of 10