very worthwhile

Rating: 8/10 (20 August 2010)

A brief historical review: First there is Hitchcock's 'Psycho'. Despite knowing how it turns out it is still a film worthy of seeing numerous times because Hitchcock was the master at keeping his stories compelling and taut. Next comes 'The Sixth Sense' which was good once, but like the old but well-loved EC comics of the 50s, it wasn't absorbing enough to make an individual tolerate multiple viewings. Knowing the ending essentially jaded the rest of the film. Somewhere in between is 'The Orphange'. Although not quite as gripping as Hitchcock it does come very close. It's about a woman who buys the orphanage she lived in as an orphaned child, make it a home for her family (husband and adopted son), and to open it to other orphans. Along the way the spirits of the home are prodded and begin interacting. Despite my version being Spanish with subtitles, it was very easy to follow. In fact, that was what I appreciated most - it was a very well-written story. 'Intelligent' would be another choice word. It seems to remain a very strict haunted house tale at first then it slides slowly and quite pleasantly into a tear-jerking fantasy near the end. The twists and turns in the plot reveal themselves more clearly. You get a similar sense of revelation a la 'The Sixth Sense' but instead of groaning loudly at the surprise you will be more pleased. You may even say 'Wow'. You won't feel like you've been misdirected intentionally. You will be elated with the journey.
Warning: There are a few brief disturbing scenes that can make even veteran viewers of this genre wince. NOT FOR THE EASILY UPSET!
Bottomline: I've seen other films of Guillermo del Toro and found myself enjoying them. This one put his name on my map and I wait eagerly for future entries. Intelligent, definitely spooky, surprisingly tender and moving - many will find tears running down their face (their own of course) All of the elements - acting, music, cinematography, editing, music, etc. work. Even the tried-and-true standard creaks and bumps were effective. THUMBS UP!