A Well-Executed Ghost Story

Rating: 9/10 (10 July 2008)

The Orphanage, presented by Guillermo Del Toro (not directed), is the most chilling and well-crafted ghost film I have seen in a very long time. The last great ghost film I saw was "The Fog" (The original by John Carpenter) and that was back in 1980. The story focuses on a family of three who move into an old orphanage that had once been the home of Laura, the mother. It becomes their new residence and for child who are mentally disabled. However during a party, Simon (the son of Laura) runs off into a mysterious cave and believes to have made a new friend that doesn't exist. After his conversations with the spirit become more crucial, strange events start to happen and secrets begin to unfold inside the haunted orphanage.
There was nothing about this film I didn't like. The acting, the thrills, the cinematography, the story, and the atmosphere. Everything was not short of sheer brilliance. The chilling moments freaked me out several times, which I'm glad they did. That was what I wanted out of this film, but I was offered so much in return. Since I knew Guillermo Del Toro was involved with this project, I had a feeling it would be good. I just didn't think it would be THIS good. It was also very heart-warming, which was something I did not expect. The bond that Laura, Simon, and Carlos (the father) shared is very sensitive and is carried out well throughout the movie.
This is definitely one of those horror films you should see more than once. The horror films you see nowadays are weak, not scary, and most of all; not worth your time. This one is WORTH the time. Believe me, his film has absolutely everything you need to know on how to make a well-executed ghost story and more.