Today’s quick review: Pan’s Labyrinth. At the end of the Spanish Civil War, young Ofelia (Ivana Baquero) and her pregnant mother (Ariadna Gil) travel to the Spanish countryside, where Captain Vidal (Sergi Lopez), her stern stepfather, has been tasked with rooting out the last of the rebels. There, a fairy leads her into a ruined labyrinth in the woods, where a faun (Doug Jones) recognizes her as the missing princess of an enchanted kingdom.
Pan’s Labyrinth is a dark fantasy and historical drama from writer and director Guillermo del Toro. Somber, unsettling, and occasionally uplifting, Pan’s Labyrinth is a unique and well-crafted tale of hardship and escape. The two sides to the film are brought to life by remarkable CGI and a slew of impressive performances. Del Toro’s skillful direction ties the movie together and gives it a polished finish.
Pan’s Labyrinth is most notable for its creative vision. Guillermo del Toro presents a raw, unfiltered sort of fairy tale, one where magic is something hidden, primal, and dangerous. The film walks the edge of horror but never quite crosses over. There are no true scares in the movie, and even its darker elements—disturbing creatures, haunting scenery, and focused bursts of violence—are delivered in measured doses and used to serve the plot.
The realistic side of Pan’s Labyrinth is just as compelling. The bloody conflict between Vidal’s soldiers and the Communist holdouts provides a suitably perilous backdrop to Ofelia’s own journey. At the personal level, Ofelia must deal with an ailing mother, bedridden due to a troubled pregnancy, and a draconian stepfather who cares only for his unborn son. The drama works well enough on its own, but it blends smoothly with the film’s fantasy elements.
Pan’s Labyrinth hits the target it aims for, and it does so with skill. But the film occupies a particular niche that won’t appeal to every viewer. Pan’s Labyrinth is not an action or adventure film; its fantasy is atmospheric and dreamlike. It is not a true horror movie either, more a fairy tale than a ghost story. Its drama is weighty and rewarding, but those looking for perfect realism may be put off by the fantasy elements.
In short, Pan’s Labyrinth is an excellent watch for those interested in what it has to offer. The ideal viewer should enjoy fantasy for its own sake, well-crafted drama, and a touch of darkness. Pan’s Labyrinth has quality enough to draw reluctant viewers into its world, but those looking for a light or free-sprited fantasy adventure should look elsewhere.
For a fantasy romance from Guillermo del Toro with a similar tone and craftsmanship, check out The Shape of Water. For an otherworldly fantasy with even stranger visuals and a lighter tone, check out Mirrormask. For a masterful, family-friendly take on a similar premise, check out Spirited Away. Finally, for an experimental drama that blurs the line between fantasy and fiction, check out The Fall.
8.2 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 7.5 to 8.0 for polished execution and unique vision.