Without a doubt the most potent foreign film I've seen in years

Rating: 10/10 (5 February 2007)

If there's anything to complain about, it might be that the art direction is a little too dark, although this movie IS about the trials of a princess of the underworld. Otherwise, I can't help thinking that the little girl in "Little Miss Sunshine" and the ubiquitous Dakota Fanning must both want to hide under a rock after watching Ivana Baquero as Ofelia. Between her and Sergi Lopez as the Capitan, this movie is a sheer performance delight.
It's almost incomprehensible how much more than that the director managed to effortlessly pack into two hours. We learn all we need to know about Fascism and the Spanish Civil War with such story telling power that it's a little disconcerting. Add fully developed themes about the rigors of child birth and the demands of motherhood, how true nobility is related to moral and physical courage, and infuse it all with a wonderful sense of justice and you've got an unforgettable film of monumental beauty.
I don't doubt some people will be put off by this film's moral sensibilities, but I also don't doubt there's no group more in need of this film than those people. And I sincerely hope teenagers get to see it. It might have the most impact on them. I don't agree at all with those who think it's too graphic in places.
Bravo Guillermo del Toro! Scorcese may be long overdue, but this is a brilliant and almost unbelievable accomplishment!