Hauntingly beautiful in every respect

Rating: 9/10 (6 May 2008)

Movies like El Orfanato are few and far in between. My tastes in movies are tragically mainstream and yet I found myself entirely immersed in the genius that is Juan Antonio Bayona's pièce de résistance.
Every single element of the movie culminates in an organic whole. Laura (played by the brilliant Belén Rueda) returns to the architecturally stunning mansion that she was once housed in as an orphaned child. As the story progresses she becomes acquainted with the poignant concept of 'historical baggage'.
I personally wouldn't classify this as a horror movie, because unlike typical Hollywood Ra-Ras, this film dares to tell a story. The plot is a sublime masterpiece and everyone was left gasping at the revelation of the plot. Another noteworthy aspect of the film is the prudent use of music to create mood; you become one with the mansion in front of you, and Rueda's phenomenal acting draws you in, whether you like it or not.
Highly, highly recommended. A gripping film for the whole family.