'Gothic Fantasy and Horror at it's Finest'

Rating: 10/10 (27 January 2007)

'Pan's Labyrinth', the newest film from Mexican director Guillermo Del Toro, is the most beautiful and moving films of the year. This film will leave you with a memory that will probably last the rest of your life. In the landscape of current film there are so many films that seem to vanish from your mind as the end credits roll. 'Pan' is certainly NOT one of those films. It's a welcome breath of fresh air and a marvel to behold.
The film tells the story of young Ofelia, whose father has recently died in the Spanish Civil War. Her pregnant mother, Caremen, has married again. Her suitor is the incredibly vicious and despicable Captain Vidal.
To escape the harsh realities of her life, Ofelia falls deep into a world of fantasy. Here she meets a faun who tells her the story of a young princess who's soul was taken from the fantasy world and put into the real world. It's the faun's belief that her soul rests in Ofelia. To prove her worthiness, Ofelia must complete three tasks. One of these tasks envolves facing The Pale Man. Those who have seen this creature will most certainly never forget him.
Back in the real world, a housekeeper and personal doctor who work for the captain, are sneaking supplies to the nearest rebels. This could cost them their lives at the cruel hands of Captain Vidal.
'Pan's Labyrinth' is a film so richly textured and beautifully made that it holds a huge requirement for repeat viewings. The film presents a world so vivid you loose your sense of place and are engulfed inside a world of alternating fantasy and reality. For two hours, this is the only world you know. You are transported. Every detail and nuance is nailed by the people behind the scenes.
Though the film has many noteworthy performances, I will single out Sergi Lopez, whose portrayal of Captain Vidal has many critics drawing comparisons to Ralph Finnes in 'Schindler's List'. That comparison is extremely apt. Lopez is fittingly calm in his brutality. This film has many critics raving and slapping the term "Masterpeice!" on to their reviews. It is, in this case, one of the few terms that can justifiably describe the vivid beauty that is 'Pan's Labyrinth'!
The #2 Film of 2006.