Beautiful and captivating cinema!!

Rating: 9/10 (25 June 2011)

Let me start by saying this is NOT your average fairy tail. It is darker and more sadistic than Narnia or all other fantasy films I've ever seen. Take THAT, James Cameron.
The film takes place in Spain, and follows the journey of Ofelia, a young girl fascinated by fantasy and magic, who goes with her mother to live with her stepfather (Captain Vidal) to a sort of military camp, where she finds her way into a labyrinth that sits nearby, finding her way into a world of both fantasy and darkness, where she learns she is a princess named Moanna must complete 3 tasks in order to go into her father's realm and reign with him.
The film also (in contrast to Ofelia's magical world of beauty and wonder), follows Ofelia's merciless stepfather, who is the top authoritarian figure in the camp and is absolutely disturbing to watch as he tortures and kills people throughout the film . This is probably where you will see more blood, since he is an extremely brutal figure. The movie (although may seem kid-like at first to some people) is NOT for kids. People 16+ can probably handle it, though. Nevertheless, you can never be TOO careful. After all, it IS a fairy tale for adults.
The acting is great, especially from Sergi López and Ivana Baquero, who DEFINITELY deserve an award for this. Both of their characters are believable and Ivana is charming as Ofelia. The rest of the cast does an also amazing job, particularly the one who plays Mercedes.
The special effects and make-up here are truly MAGICAL! I mean, the titular faun looks great and also may terrify some people, since the make-up is done so well he looks absolutely grotesque.
The music is also perfect for this film, with some of the most breathtaking music in theater history Although, this movie is not perfect nor for everyone. As I have mentioned, the film is not for squeamish people when it comes to violence. There is tons of blood throughout, although this is not one of those movies that showers you with blood. The director understands that the violence is necessary to set the film's tone, and so it is present.
The other gripe I have with the film is the pacing. There are times (especially if you're a fantasy fan), where you wish you were seeing Ofelia's story unfold, but you are left with many lengthy scenes focusing on the hateful Captain Vidal. Although his character is important to the atmosphere of the film, enough is enough!
Well, here it is. My review of Pan's Labyrinth (or as it was originally named by Guillermo del Toro, who is Mexican and therefore made the movie in Spanish: El laberinto del fauno). If you like fantasy stuff like me, and can get past the gory moments and pacing issues, well you may very well love this great fantasy epic. This one is truly one of the most unique experiences in cinema. Bravo, Del Toro, BRAVO!! You are guaranteed at least ONE Oscar with this one!