Absolutely breathtaking

Rating: 10/10 (2 February 2007)

I didn't quite know what to expect with Pan's Labrynth. (Didn't even realize I was part of a test screening for it...) With that sad, this was one of the most amazing films I've ever seen. The imagery and cgi are top-notch, and (dare I say) believable! Elements of fantasy blend well with the setting of the war-torn Spanish countryside, without pretentiousness and overbearing presentation.
The violence was intense at moments, but it wasn't violence for the sake of violence. You won't see men falling to pieces on screen as with other war movies, but you will see commentary on human nature expressed through particularly intense moments.
What perfected this movie for me was the character of Captain Vidal, and his contrast with the Faun and Mercedes. My hatred for this character kept me on the edge of my seat through most of the film.
Do yourself a favor. Skip Stomp the Yard and The Hitcher. Pan's Labrynth is a film you will never forget.