Decent portrayal of good v.s. Evil

Rating: 6/10 (10 May 2019)

Rooted in traditional folklore, "Pan's Labyrinth" is a story that highlights the importance of nobility in the face of the worst of evils. The most effective way the director conveyed this theme is through character development. The first characters we are introduced to are the protagonists, Ofelia and her pregnant mother. While her mother isnt't too actively involved in the plot of the film, the child she is carrying ultimately plays into the theme. Ofelia is a young girl with a very active imagination. Her mother and the other figures of authority in the film don't seem too fond of this fact, encouraging her to read books that would more suit the logistical person they want her to be.
After Ofelia and her mother's arrival to the captain's house, we are introduced to the captain. The captain is the father of Ofelia's mother's child. They're planning to live with them, but through dramatic irony the film reveals that there is an evil side to him that Ophelia's mother does not see. He's shown commiting evil acts and shows no remorse for them. These acts, unseen by Ophelia's mother are what develop the captain's character into the villain of the story. After this establishment of roles, we see Ophelia start to fulfill her role as the perfect protagonist. She makes many sacrifices for the greater good of something she doesn't even fully understand, further establishing her role as the noble protagonist.
Another aspect of the film that I appreciate is the special effects. Some of the CGI appears kind of clunky and awkward, but knowing that this film is low budget it adds a certain amount of charm. The practical effects however are very good. The pale man is terrifying and I feel that he wouldn't have that same haunting effect had the director, cast, and crew not gone the extra mile to blend him into the environment. Speaking of environment, the set design of the film is also worth appreciating. The captain's house, labyrinth, and forest are all designed well, but I think the most impressive is the set of the road scene. It's absolutely disgusting, and I mean disgusting. I'm a germophobe and seeing this set actually created that sense of germ induced anxiety in me.
Going into it I was skeptical, but the film grew on me. I highly recommend watching the bonus features of them film. The interviews with the director and other crew members provide insight to the film that helped me appreciate it more.