A movie for intelligent people

Rating: 10/10 (10 August 2007)

This is by far the best movie I have seen in about 3 years. I made a point to see it in the theater and it was worth it. I have even bought the special collector's edition on DVD. But, I am sooo sick of hearing people complain about this movie.
Read about the movie people! Even if that just means glancing at the box. Most of the people complain about the movie because they didn't know what to expect. Before you see this movie there are some things you should know about it.
1. If you don't want to read subtitles then DO NOT watch this movie. First of all anyone who refuses to read subtitles is a tasteless moron, and would not like the film even if it was dubbed. As a side note I personally think the translation was too Americanized, I would have preferred a more literal translation. The movie should be called The Labyrinth of the Faun, the name "Pan's labyrinth" just confuses people, since Pan has nothing to do with the movie.
2. This film is rated R for violence. It is a violent movie, it takes place during a war! It is not violence like in a horror movie, it is very realistic and can be quite disturbing. If you are squeamish don't see this movie. Having said that I must also state that the violence is integral to the movie and necessary in every way and if you really want to experience the film you should see the entire thing including the violent scenes.
3. This movie is NOT for children. It is rated R and I would recommend that no one under 14-15 see it. It has violent content that is too intense for children under 13. I think it would be more suitable for an older child though, because it does have subtitles and the plot of the movie would probably bore a 13-14 year old. It is mostly about a war. Having said this it is really up to parents discretion, but it is frightening when I read parents asking if the movie is OK for a 7 year old.
4. Lastly I wanted to say that I recommend that everyone see this movie. It is a genuinely good movie free of hype or pretension.