At last!- A film that shows the true extent of female involvement in war

Rating: 8/10 (23 December 2006)

I went to the pictures last night for the obligatory annual viewing of 'It's A Wonderful Life', but it was sold out so I went to see 'Pan's Labyrinth'; a film I wouldn't have gone near if it hadn't have been the only remotely interesting film showing at the cinema. I know this sounds weird coming from someone who was intending to watch 'It's A Wonderful Life' for the umpteenth time, but I thought that 'Pan's Labyrinth' looked a bit sappy from the trailers. All the stuff about 'innocence' in the reviews I'd read really put me off as well. Having now actually seen it, I am now reminded of the importance of keeping an open mind: the film was superb.
What struck me in particular was the brilliant female characters in the movie who serve to bring about the downfall of the appalling Capitan Vidal. Ofelia and Mercedes (an older version of Ofelia) are two of the strongest female characters I've seen in cinema in a long time. The film, while it explores many themes, is ultimately about the courage and strength of women, in my opinion.
Thank you, Guillermo Del Toro, for recognising and paying tribute to female courage, strength and imagination. How many women all over the world must have risked their lives for what they believe in? We are too often depicted as submissive victims or background players. Again, Guillermo, thank you!