Stunning!

Rating: 10/10 (28 July 2014)

I found this film to be one of the best I've ever seen. It mixes such wonderful genres with ease: War, Politics, History, Foreign Film, Fantasy, Family. The fact that it is in Spanish and is completely subtitled doesn't change a thing. The acting is so superb, you don't need to read the subtitles to understand what is happening.
The depth of emotion portrayed by 12 year old Ivana Baquero as Ofelia was second to none - a well seasoned actress could not have done a better job. Her range and believability was so strong I am just captured by her. Doug Jones was a real treat to watch as the Fauno & Pale Man - the movement of the Pale Man gave many nightmares to a lot of people where as the Fauno was played so well that there always was a question to his intentions. Maribel Verdu gave so much heart to the role of Mercedes - you really feel for her plight & victories. Sergei Lopez was very appropriate in his portrayal of the Capt. Vidal. His cruelty and small back story made an interesting villain. The cast was just so brilliant and so real - you get sucked into the story immediately.
The visuals must also be mentioned. The locations, sets & art were so breathtaking. The mood was always set so perfectly, the details were so well attended - I truly hope that future art direction in the fantasy genre take a page from this film's book.
I do not recommend this movie for children - but teens+ must see it. It is truly a feast for the mind, eyes and heart.