Pan's Labyrinth
Picturehouse | Release Date: December 29, 2006
8.6
USER SCORE
Universal acclaim based on 2850 Ratings
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Positive:
2,492
Mixed:
200
Negative:
158
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10
AndremaxJul 10, 2018
The best Del Toro's movie and one of the best of all time. The drama, the fantastic, the thriller, the war and the shocking are incredibly mixed in an amazing story. The movie's visual is dark and beautiful at the same time.
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10
nickrovertOct 25, 2013
With incredible visual effects and a superb collection of actors, 'Pan's Labyrinth', despite being a fantasy film, is emotionally raw, dark, and real. Despite its fairy tale-like imaginary properties, the film is heart-breaking and puts itsWith incredible visual effects and a superb collection of actors, 'Pan's Labyrinth', despite being a fantasy film, is emotionally raw, dark, and real. Despite its fairy tale-like imaginary properties, the film is heart-breaking and puts its protagonist through a distressing (and at times disturbing) adventure leading up to its tragic conclusion that will resonate with its viewers long after its closing credits pass.… Expand
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8
MuddsjrAug 10, 2014
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. do not pan Pan's labyrinth, because quite frankly, it happens to be a truly fabulous and greatly inspired mish-mash of fairy-tale fantasy (told in an eerie, unnerving perspective) and a little historical adventure too (the film is based in the Spanish civil war). As a little advice though, don't go crawling inside large trees to go looking for giant burping frogs, no 1: because there won't be any, just insects and not very happy badgers, and no 2: like Ophelia in the film, you'll be very muddy. otherwise, enjoy!!!!!!!!!… Expand
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10
Laekerson95Jan 31, 2014
During and after for a while, I didn't know how to think of this movie to be a masterpiece. But as one of my early mature film experiences, it took a day;s venture to discover that Pan's Labyrinth is the most unforgettably harmonious andDuring and after for a while, I didn't know how to think of this movie to be a masterpiece. But as one of my early mature film experiences, it took a day;s venture to discover that Pan's Labyrinth is the most unforgettably harmonious and well-contrasted and magical piece of cinematic film I've ever seen. Just my style, just my kind.… Expand
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9
JpJuarioJan 24, 2014
''Stunning.'' Inventive.'' ''A Masterpiece and nearly the greatest film ever made..'' In misery there can be beauty... In death there can be life..In simplicity, there can be Greatness... Pan's Labyrinth will fires your nerve.
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9
DanielDX0Apr 14, 2014
Few movies shock me like Del Toro's masterpiece "Pan's Labyrinth". This is a movie which manages to present an original and brilliantly written fantasy world with some fantastic characters. I don't even know what should I talk about next: theFew movies shock me like Del Toro's masterpiece "Pan's Labyrinth". This is a movie which manages to present an original and brilliantly written fantasy world with some fantastic characters. I don't even know what should I talk about next: the beautiful cinematography or the amazing soundtrack. Well, let's start with the one that pleases our eyes: this movie looks beautiful with every frame being dominated by a certain color, more than a simple film grain. But our ears aren't ignored either, the soundtrack being mesmerizing and epic. These two elements combined create an amazing body of art which make the movie looking like a dystopian fantasy painting. So, these two elements are great, but the script it's what sends this movie into a class of its own. This is not just another fantasy picture, this is a deeply emotional and thrilling battle between the cruel reality which is Fascist Spain and the beautiful world of fantasy. Yes, I said beautiful, because through all the grotesque imaging of the fantasy world, it is more beautiful in the end because of the power of human emotion which surpass all the evil.

In the end, I think this movie's greatest achievement it's that it managed to show us that there it's beauty in the dissonance, and it managed this through its artful cinematography and soundtrack, and, of course. through the sheer originality and complexity of the script.… Expand
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8
zperry-20Aug 16, 2014
Visually stunning , with an excellent amount of depth and some of the best storytelling and Pale face was as perfect as I imagined. It was just let down by its stupid characters such as Omelia and at times I found my self yelling at theVisually stunning , with an excellent amount of depth and some of the best storytelling and Pale face was as perfect as I imagined. It was just let down by its stupid characters such as Omelia and at times I found my self yelling at the screen at her stupidity.… Expand
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10
naptakerOct 10, 2014
It's pretty understandable to seem why Pan's Labyrinth might seem overhyped (let's be real, a metascore of 98 is a little ridiculous), but, honestly, it's one of the few movies I'd consider deserving of it. Not only is it one of the mostIt's pretty understandable to seem why Pan's Labyrinth might seem overhyped (let's be real, a metascore of 98 is a little ridiculous), but, honestly, it's one of the few movies I'd consider deserving of it. Not only is it one of the most beautifully and painstakingly crafted films in recent memory (and all on a budget of only $19 million too, which is pretty impressive considering the size of a lot of movie budgets these days), but the writing manages to seamlessly blend a dark fairytale (that doesn't lose its sense of childhood wonder and mystery) with the searing drama of the Spanish Civil War. Everyone's acting is up to the task too, even the 11 year old's.… Expand
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10
JohnMasterLOct 30, 2015
¡Que belleza de película! Del Toro y su increíble imaginación nos sorprenden una vez mas en esta película. Me encanto la relación entre el mundo real y un mundo mágico, donde al final no se sabe si todo lo que Ofelia vive es real o no. Las¡Que belleza de película! Del Toro y su increíble imaginación nos sorprenden una vez mas en esta película. Me encanto la relación entre el mundo real y un mundo mágico, donde al final no se sabe si todo lo que Ofelia vive es real o no. Las criaturas y demonios que Del Toro creo para esta película es de admirarse y de respetarse, pues a mi consideración creo unos personajes tan únicos y originales que le dan un toque fresco y innovador a esta película y se agradece que usaron poco CGI, el maquillaje y el diseño de vestuario se ve mas real y mas clásico. Es una de las mejores películas de fantasía de todos los tiempos, la mezcla de fantasía, horror, magia y suspenso hacen que "Pan's Labyrinth" sea un triunfo. Una aventura épica y mágica!… Expand
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10
WARCHILDJan 13, 2015
I have long felt this was Del Toro at his best. If you happen to be bi-lingual you would notice that the Spanish version offers a bit more depth and meaning to each scene. It can't be helped really, all translations lose a little something.I have long felt this was Del Toro at his best. If you happen to be bi-lingual you would notice that the Spanish version offers a bit more depth and meaning to each scene. It can't be helped really, all translations lose a little something. Nonetheless, Pan and Ofelia found a way into my own dreams, or nightmares? You can't help but respect this film.… Expand
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9
MummyFeb 4, 2015
wonderful movie and one of the great fantasy movies of all times.
it shows us borders between fantasy and real, between children's world and adult's world.
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8
mm007Jun 22, 2016
An interesting fantasy movie based on fairy tale like coating. Though I personally did not like the ending. Anybody who wants to watch this film, I'm warning you that it contains sheer violent scenes.Overall better than avg movie (rated :8/10)
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10
BrianAD9Jan 14, 2016
Not much can be said about this film that hasn't been said already. Pan's Labyrinth is a dark fairy tale for adults. Beautiful, emotional, brutal, and haunting, all in one. Part historical drama, part psychological thriller, part fantasy, theNot much can be said about this film that hasn't been said already. Pan's Labyrinth is a dark fairy tale for adults. Beautiful, emotional, brutal, and haunting, all in one. Part historical drama, part psychological thriller, part fantasy, the film is perfectly directed and acted, and with some really nice visuals as well. Not all the CG looks that great (the frog, for example), but it doesn't take away from the experience. Pan's Labyrinth is Guillermo del Toro's masterpiece, a film that will always be remembered for it's brilliance, it's brutal violence, and it's enthralling story, as well as a perfect ending. The only thing that could really take away from your experience with this fantastic film is that it's a bit lower-key than many might expect. Don't get caught up in all the hype. Does it deserve it? Every bit of it. But it's always best to go into a film with no expectations, lest you be let down, even by something as well-done as this. In the end, Pan's Labyrinth has quickly made it's way into my top 10 favorite films of all time, and is my favorite foreign language film. I highly recommend Pan's Labyrinth.… Expand
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10
Will_EarwoodJul 21, 2015
It really doesn't get much better than Pan's Labyrinth. A creative, well-written, well-acted story that seems more real than fantasy oftentimes. Del Toro's ability to turn fantasy into suspense at any moment is what makes the story more thanIt really doesn't get much better than Pan's Labyrinth. A creative, well-written, well-acted story that seems more real than fantasy oftentimes. Del Toro's ability to turn fantasy into suspense at any moment is what makes the story more than just a fairytale. While most fantasy concepts are in some way predicated upon resolved suspense throughout its plot and in reaching its conclusion, not all are able to fuse the two such that neither one or the other is its own. As a result, Pan's Labyrinth transcends our expectations and preconceptions and reaches its audience in more than one way.… Expand
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10
avr50May 30, 2017
one of the best movies that i even seen. It´s the most beautiful fairy tale ever with really shocking scenes and beautiful images. This is for adults for sure, but when you´re kids are old enough please let them see this movie. At the end ofone of the best movies that i even seen. It´s the most beautiful fairy tale ever with really shocking scenes and beautiful images. This is for adults for sure, but when you´re kids are old enough please let them see this movie. At the end of the movie you make what some characters do in the movie constantly: disobey.… Expand
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9
DanBurritoOct 16, 2015
An astonishing movie. Well directed, well written and visually amazing. The best part about it isn't the visuals though. See, the movie's set back during the Spanish Civil War and combines fantasy with harsh political realism. That's whatAn astonishing movie. Well directed, well written and visually amazing. The best part about it isn't the visuals though. See, the movie's set back during the Spanish Civil War and combines fantasy with harsh political realism. That's what makes it so great. And I'm willing to bet that a lot of people negatively reviewing the movie missed the point-without the war elements, it might have gotten a 79 on Meteoritic but Doubt it would have gotten a 98. I'm in shock that it didn't win Best Foreign Language movie at the Oscars. In fact, if it weren't for this movie, I doubt I could forgive Del Toro for that disaster of a film, Pacific Rim. An amazing movie, truly as good as they say.… Expand
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8
RobertBroganOct 5, 2015
Pan's Labyrinth has all the elements of a fantasy adventure: costumes, props, effects, sounds, score, sympathetic heroines, detestable villains, mystery, and wonder. However, there is a great deal of cruelty in the film, and it is taken suchPan's Labyrinth has all the elements of a fantasy adventure: costumes, props, effects, sounds, score, sympathetic heroines, detestable villains, mystery, and wonder. However, there is a great deal of cruelty in the film, and it is taken such a high degree that it detracts from the experience.… Expand
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10
JoshuaTobackJul 29, 2016
Even after 10 years, Pans Labyrinth is still as perfect as it was in 2006. look, this movie is dirty. This movie doesn't hold back punches, both mentally and physically it will crush you. Guillermo del Toro is a master of saying everythingEven after 10 years, Pans Labyrinth is still as perfect as it was in 2006. look, this movie is dirty. This movie doesn't hold back punches, both mentally and physically it will crush you. Guillermo del Toro is a master of saying everything with nothing, and that makes even the smallest scenes more impactful than some three hour movies. I'd go into more details but this movie STILL shouldn't be spoiled. Seriously, if you call yourself a film lover, you absolutely must see it.

Note: It's in Spanish.… Expand
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10
CavafyJan 5, 2016
An extraordinary and powerful film that left an informed audience in silence.

A film on many levels, part mythical, part a story of a violent and internecine period of great brutality set in Spain. But what is the film all about? TheAn extraordinary and powerful film that left an informed audience in silence.

A film on many levels, part mythical, part a story of a violent and internecine
period of great brutality set in Spain.

But what is the film all about? The film sucks you in; whilst in Spanish and
with sub-titles, I had no sense of “reading” these sub-titles but rather a sense
of both watching and being sucked into a powerful story.

The film makes sense when you put in an even more brutal scene played out
almost nine months previously. The captain has clearly terrorised the area
and all the surrounding communities. We have learnt that mother knows it is
important that Ofelia recognise the captain as father; we know that Ofelia is
coldly indifferent or more towards him; that at the time of the dinner she
wilfully rolls in the mud – though ostensibly away with a faun (Pan has
always been the go-between twixt man and gods, being half man and half
mythical beast, a messenger and chord of communication with the other
World) – ruining the expensive shoes and beautiful dress that her mother has
given her for the occasion – Ofelia of course knows that such dress was
provided indirectly by her “father” the captain.

We learn that the mother is considered a great beauty, though in the film she
does not come across so, seeming a shadow, a shell of her perhaps previously
vibrant self; in conversation between her brother-to-be-born, Ofelia talks of
the wondrous way her mother comes alive when she smiles, informing he and
us that her present austerity and zombie condition is not all she can be ..
We know that Ofelia’s real father was a tailor, that the captain was one of his
clients; and the unseen, unshot scene of nine months previous comes
harrowingly view.

The captain whilst being fitted for a new uniform espies the beautiful wife of
his tailor, he must have her and he kills the father and rapes the mother. In
shades on the Tin Drum we see Ofelia perhaps observing this from beneath
the table and we understand what has driven this child to seek the solace and
comfort of her make-believe book-driven world…

We now understand the opening scene; the late arrival with birth imminent of
the mother and Ofelia and the Faustian pact that mother has made.
We can imagine this butcher, this captain, king of his territory seeing this
beautiful woman ripen into pregnancy carrying the child he must have
fathered and in the death-throes of a war he knows is lost the imperative of
the necessity for him to gather to him his heir – we have been told that he is
illogically certain that the unborn is a boy and we know he is totally unfeeling
to the mother and that her death is of no concern, but rather, at all costs, and
at any risk to the mother, the birth of his son and heir is paramount.
So he sends his troops and convoy to fetch this woman, this carrier of his
ripening seed, such that he too can pass on his watch..

The last scene, the death of Ofelia shot by the captain sees that as her life force
ebbs she seeks refuge in becoming her fairy princess alongside her mother
and real father and thus can, and does die, with an almost smile on her lips.. This is the only way that makes sense of this sometimes graphically brutal tragedy; the way a young girl seeks refuge from brutal reality and in the understanding comes an even greater sense of this time of brutality and savagery, which whilst set in the aftermath of the real civil war – the captain at one point reminding us of this by proclaiming that such war his side had “won” – sees an extension of this under the cloak of the broader 2nd world war. One of the best, perhaps even the best film I have seen that clearly has marked the psyche and consciousness of all who have seen it; though not one for either the faint-hearted or those without the backdrop understanding of this traumatic period. The impact and trauma of the times and the way this reverberates through the generations to the present day is a theme indirectly explored in the book by Robert Wilson, “The Blindman of Seville”, which book I am now moved to reread; or should I instead re-read “The Wisdom of Crocodiles” a book which explores the extreme consequentiality of disparate actions… A powerful film that has had me thinking all night and caused me to put pen to paper at 4am…..… Expand
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10
night4Apr 5, 2016
Simply fantastic! I truly enjoy experiencing what another country or culture would consider to be "fantasy" since they all seem to have different interpretations of the genre.

The darkness in both the fantasy elements of the movie, andSimply fantastic! I truly enjoy experiencing what another country or culture would consider to be "fantasy" since they all seem to have different interpretations of the genre.

The darkness in both the fantasy elements of the movie, and the "real life" portions mirror each other perfectly and artfully. I will never forget this movie as long as I live.

There are very, very few movies that deserve a 10/10, and this is one of them.… Expand
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7
smuroseAug 10, 2020
Interesting movie, although the parallels and metaphors were difficult to interpret. I had to read up about it all afterward. Maybe it was meant to be open for interpretation. Acting was good and I might have to watch it again to understand it more.
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10
alejandro970Mar 18, 2018
The most glorious experience of Guillermo del Toro is a bittersweet story of war and fantasy tale with his characteristic style: monsters so unforgettable as terrifying. Masterly job of Doug Jones and Guillermo Navarro. Deserves a longThe most glorious experience of Guillermo del Toro is a bittersweet story of war and fantasy tale with his characteristic style: monsters so unforgettable as terrifying. Masterly job of Doug Jones and Guillermo Navarro. Deserves a long standing ovation.… Expand
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8
Zohaibpk02Feb 16, 2017
This is the nice movie I ever watch. You should share this on Social networks for quick promotion. https://extremegrowth.co.uk/ here you can buy Twitter followers, Instagram followers and Facebook likes.
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10
eli_fjrNov 7, 2019
Incredible film, I have watched it many times and have found something else to love about it each time!!!
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9
jaasieljuniorNov 21, 2017
Um dos melhores filmes dos últimos 20 anos. Sombrio,misterioso,místico,sonhador,extravagante,violento e surreal. Eu demorei para assistir esse filme e me arrependo bastante.
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10
Bugger217Sep 3, 2017
There's not much to say about Pan's Labyrinth that hasn't already been said. It's Guillermo del Toro's masterpiece. An intoxicating and tragic fairy tale set in post-war Spain. It's amazing how a film could possibly be so beautiful in lightThere's not much to say about Pan's Labyrinth that hasn't already been said. It's Guillermo del Toro's masterpiece. An intoxicating and tragic fairy tale set in post-war Spain. It's amazing how a film could possibly be so beautiful in light of the truly ugly acts taking place within it. A juxtaposition that gets under the skin and leaves a lasting mark on the soul. I've seen this film a handful of times now, and each time I find something new to love. Each time, I am left a blubbering mess. It's truly special, but you probably already knew that.… Expand
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10
writingbob1Oct 20, 2017
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The ultimate example of Magic Realism at the movies is also one of the most moving and brilliant films I've ever seen. A fairy tale for adults. It's very unsettling, but the chilling horror is off-set by: the captivating dreamlike tone, the utterly beautiful music, the painterly cinematography, and the warm Judeo-Christian spirituality. Somewhere in the bruised, shattered heart of this film, submerged in the iciest regions at the ocean floor, the warm golden key for redemption can be found. The miracle is how this film is so accessible and welcoming, while also so challenging, revealing new layers of meaning each time I come back to it, which, for me, makes it the finest work of art in the medium of cinema.… Expand
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10
pugownerOct 23, 2017
This is one of those movies that doesn't give the viewer anything to smile about. I remember watching it for the first time and realizing there wasn't a single scene that made me laugh or even crack a smile. It's dark and moody, it blurs theThis is one of those movies that doesn't give the viewer anything to smile about. I remember watching it for the first time and realizing there wasn't a single scene that made me laugh or even crack a smile. It's dark and moody, it blurs the line between fantasy and reality, and it makes no attempts to comfort the viewer. But it's simultaneously one of the most intensely enjoyable cinematic experiences I've ever had. Listen to the critics on this one, it really is THAT good.… Expand
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9
sharathegde1995Dec 23, 2017
Combining dark fantasy elements and fantasy, this is a gruesome yet profoundly moving stories ever put on celluloid.
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9
Jaredc324May 7, 2019
What can one say about Pan's Labyrinth. It is a masterpiece of not just the fantasy genre, but a masterpiece altogether. Del Torro mashes real world drama with utterly gushing fantasy escapisms and it results in a poem of a film that willWhat can one say about Pan's Labyrinth. It is a masterpiece of not just the fantasy genre, but a masterpiece altogether. Del Torro mashes real world drama with utterly gushing fantasy escapisms and it results in a poem of a film that will linger with you for days and years to come.… Expand
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8
trustyslothJan 14, 2018
Guillermo del Toro's magical creation is fantastic. His way of mixing history drama with fantasy portrays a big issue of today's matters. When a fantastic movie is capable of bleeding in both figurative and imaginative states, for me, it isGuillermo del Toro's magical creation is fantastic. His way of mixing history drama with fantasy portrays a big issue of today's matters. When a fantastic movie is capable of bleeding in both figurative and imaginative states, for me, it is consider magical. Stunning. Beautiful.… Expand
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10
AlbertoHerbbFeb 4, 2018
I was 8 years old when I first watched this movie, I know I was very young when I first watched it. This movie was very impactful to me as a kid, It was beautifully shot and directed. I was completely shocked by the story and the characters.I was 8 years old when I first watched this movie, I know I was very young when I first watched it. This movie was very impactful to me as a kid, It was beautifully shot and directed. I was completely shocked by the story and the characters. The Faun and The Pale Man gave me nightmares for days, but I grew to respect the artist and Guillermo as a director for their imagination and the hard work that they put into their movie. Pan's Labyrinth is a fairy tale with a historical context, The Spanish civil war was a very turmoiling time in Spain. Ofelia and the rest of the characters were so well written that I was close to tears at the end of the movie. I highly recommend everyone to watch it!… Expand
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8
amheretojudgeJan 22, 2018
in the underground realm..

El Laberinto Del Fauno Captivating an audience in basically an introduction scene with the help of an insect that quite frankly isn't attractive or pleasant to watch on screen, Guillermo not only seeks but demandsin the underground realm..

El Laberinto Del Fauno

Captivating an audience in basically an introduction scene with the help of an insect that quite frankly isn't attractive or pleasant to watch on screen, Guillermo not only seeks but demands attention and within these detailed points he scores a larger picture than expected. El Laberinto Del Fauno takes you back to those old fairy tales or late evening's cartoon tales that connects an innocent kid to the dog-eat-dog world in a metaphorical tone. All of these would have been enough for a fairy tale but this is Guillermo's show all over the screen where color, background score and even tiny creatures floating around or background the screen factors in for this majestic art that it is. El Laberinto Del Fauno is exhilarating, to-the-point, well detailed and dramatic which isn't surprisingly for the kids; considering its premise, but for the adults as it is equally terrifying and beautiful in its own way and with the help of the maker it walks a fine line between it.… Expand
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10
CTHReviewsJul 22, 2018
Pan's Labyrinth is one of the greatest films ever made. The music is very somber, the visuals are magnetic, and every time I see it, there's always something new to take away from it.
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8
FilipeNetoFeb 13, 2022
I think this film was really my first contact with the work of Guillermo del Toro, a Mexican director who has done a colossal job of taking advantage of fantastic themes in his films. This film was one of the director's most cherishedI think this film was really my first contact with the work of Guillermo del Toro, a Mexican director who has done a colossal job of taking advantage of fantastic themes in his films. This film was one of the director's most cherished projects, and we can feel how much he committed and invested in it. Despite being a fantasy film and starring a girl, the film is quite intense and not suitable for younger children.

All the action takes place in the final years of the Spanish Civil War: we follow Ofelia, a dreamy and kind-hearted girl, who travels to a remote place in rural Spain with her mother, in order to join Captain Vidal, a superior officer of the Francoist army whose mother got pregnant and who occupied an abandoned mill with a battalion to hunt down a group of communist partisans. From the start, it is quite clear that Ofelia dislikes her stepfather and her mother is determined to make her forget her real father, now deceased, by forcing the girl to treat him as a father. Indifferent to political issues, Ofelia pursues and finds a magical world in the forest around her new habitat. There, she meets a faun who tells her that she is, in fact, a princess, daughter of the King of the Enchanted World, who long ago left and was lost in the human world, living without knowing the anguish and longing for her true father. In order to return, she will need to complete three challenges and prove that her soul is still pure, that is, that she has not turned into a human.

If we want to do a cold and harshly realistic analysis, this film will quickly crumble and show several weaknesses. The most obvious, for me, is the absolute insanity of a military man who insists on taking his companion, in a terminal stage of pregnancy, and a minor child to the battlefield. I also didn't like the feeling that the film ends up being so politically charged, with communist guerrillas being considered champions of freedom and with the demonization of Francoist soldiers. Anyone knows that there are no saints in war, and that atrocities are always committed on both sides. But I feel that we are being unfair if we continue to view the film from this perspective. Despite all this, this is a charming cinematographic work full of magic and dreaminess, which makes us want to believe in fairy tales again, to be in that girl's shoes.

The film has an excellent cast of Hispanic actors (I don't know if they are all Spanish in fact) and is entirely spoken in Spanish, which for me was a bonus as it gives the film a very welcome additional realism. Ivana Baquero did an exceptional job on the skin of young Ofelia. Despite not showing his face, very well disguised, Doug Jones is the man who gives body, soul and life to two of the most memorable characters in the film: the wise faun and the terrible Pale Man, a monster that almost devours the protagonist. Jones gives us one of his best works in cinema. Surprisingly calm and terrifying, Sergi López turned his Captain into a character worthy of our hatred and contempt. In addition to these three great actors, the film also has splendid performances by Ariadna Gil, Maribel Verdú, Álex Angulo and César Vea.

Being a Del Toro film, it is guaranteed that we will have a wide range of visual effects, CGI and characterization, all the highest quality and privileging the maximum of realism. In fact, we couldn't ask for more when it comes to all of this. There are a number of discreet and realistic CGI features, ranging from explosions and the intense green of the forest to the maze itself, fantastic and unreal, where an important part of the story takes place. The costumes are very good, especially Ofelia's dresses and the soldiers' uniforms. The scenarios, especially the labyrinth and the mill, are wonderful and the characterization of the fantastic characters was thought out in the smallest details. Cinematography makes clever use of color, shadow, light and shooting angles to achieve greater expressiveness and visual symbolism. No less important is the excellent soundtrack, with emphasis on the central melody, which has a sound that reminds us of the lullabies that mothers used to sing to children.… Expand
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10
JbushApr 4, 2018
My favorite movie of all time! best fantasy movie PERIOD. This is put with Lord of the rings and Harry Potter. This movie is just as magical as the first viewing if you watch this time to time. This movie is beautiful...
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10
Matticuss77Jun 19, 2019
This movie is definitely a work of art. Del Toro has a great eye for visuals, but visuals mean nothing without a good story, and thankfully Pan's Labyrinth has a story that is equal parts brutally violent and magically poetic. And poeticThis movie is definitely a work of art. Del Toro has a great eye for visuals, but visuals mean nothing without a good story, and thankfully Pan's Labyrinth has a story that is equal parts brutally violent and magically poetic. And poetic really is the word for it. I recommend NOT trying to over-analyze this film... Just learn to appreciate it's sense of macabre poetry and you'll see the masterpiece everyone else is seeing.… Expand
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10
paperaquariumSep 6, 2018
In my top 5 movies of all time. It's like a witch's brew of wonderful monsters, a child's magical realism, hard-hitting historical drama and a piece of del Toro's soul (definitely in there- all my favourite films are like that).
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8
YunusKatMar 25, 2019
In my honest opinion, this movie is hard to describe. The story is strangely very real and you can almost feel the real kick in but then there are scenes when the labyrinth and fairies come in and it's a dark and twisted take on belovedIn my honest opinion, this movie is hard to describe. The story is strangely very real and you can almost feel the real kick in but then there are scenes when the labyrinth and fairies come in and it's a dark and twisted take on beloved fairytale characters is wonderful, to say the least.… Expand
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9
MahmusSep 25, 2020
This movie is both beautiful and terrifying.
Whenever I'm not in awe at the incredible sets and creature design, I'm shocked at the brutal violence and disturbing themes.
It has some of the most impressive makeup effects I've ever seen. TheThis movie is both beautiful and terrifying.
Whenever I'm not in awe at the incredible sets and creature design, I'm shocked at the brutal violence and disturbing themes.

It has some of the most impressive makeup effects I've ever seen. The faun and the Pale Man (both played by Doug Jones) alone were enough to justify it winning a Best Makeup Oscar, but even small things like the cut on Captain Vidal's cheek are incredible.

Speaking of Captain Vidal, hats off to Guillermo del Toro and actor Sergi López for bringing to life one of the most despicable movie villains ever. Every second he's on screen I wanna punch him in the face.
I'm all for complex, multidimensional villains, but sometimes it's just great to have a completely irredeemable piece of **** as your main antagonist. Del Toro would later do this again with Michael Shannon in The Shape of Water.… Expand
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9
AvishanHSep 25, 2019
Mind blowing movie... One of my favorite movies.the real monster was Captain Vidal not the pan(fauno)
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8
DawdlingPoetNov 20, 2021
This is a fantasy horror film, with themes including rebellion, naivety, war and anarchism, among others. It is very atmospheric, with a good use of low lighting, often blue-ish tones are used during scenes set at night in the surroundingThis is a fantasy horror film, with themes including rebellion, naivety, war and anarchism, among others. It is very atmospheric, with a good use of low lighting, often blue-ish tones are used during scenes set at night in the surrounding forests. I liked the music used, mostly classical in style, which added to the sense of authenticity somehow - its quite light and somehow mildly spooky or chilling at times. I probably ought to make a point of clarifying that this is a Spanish film - being both set in Spain and with the dialogue all in Spanish, so if you don't like subtitles then this obviously isn't for you.

I felt that the visual effects were really quite impressive - it was quite an immersive film and often the visual effects made it seem rather unpleasant, think of a gross out comedy sort of thing (there's lots of mud, dirt, mucus etc.). I also felt it had a sense of childhood naivety about it. The main character, Ofelia, is obviously a child herself and doesn't seem to realise the potential danger she could be in by some of her actions, so she is certainly naive to an extent. The creatures brought to life presumably by CGI did seem quite convincing - there are many insects and flying creatures, for example. This is ultimately a rather dark and definitely more an adults version, or example of, a fairy tale and not one for kids to watch, due to the content.

It had a sense of foreboding and the tension built up as the plot developed. I suppose, when I think about it, its perhaps a film depicting various extremes - from the naivety of childhood, a childs imagination come to life and the grim, dark realities of the real world, from things seen from the girls point of view, to the parents war mongering circumstances. Its set at a time of conflict and that conflict is quite clearly put across.

Cast wise, Ofelia is played by Ivana Baquero. Her performance is good, as a curious, imaginative child who is keen to find out what secrets may be hiding nearby. You can see in her face her curiosity and also a sense of independence and of her being very determined to get to the bottom of thing. Capitan Vidal is played by Sergi Lopez, who comes across as quite chilling and unemotional. Carmen is played by Ariadna Gil - she also plays her part well, as a worried, nervous, loving yet undermined mother. Other cast members include Alex Angulo as Dr. Ferreiro, Maolo Solo as Garces and Roger Casamajor as Pedro.

Content wise, as I say this film contains bloody violence, both human related and fantasy related instances, with bloody bodily injuries shown, plus some very strong language. It is quite frightening in tone, especially with the visual effects at numerous points and of course some of the themes, of war and anarchy, are quite dark. Due to this, the film carries a 15 rating.

I liked the camerawork, with some scenes featuring camera shots from unusual angles, which I felt added to the fantasy element. It made some scenes look almost ethereal, with the camera seemingly floating around somewhat, to an extent. I thought some of the dialogue was relatively poignant, with some mentions relating to the senselessness of war for example.… Expand
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9
Dungeon00XNov 23, 2019
A disturbingly chilling drama focused around a child's imagination during the Spanish civil war in 1944. I walked into this hoping to be impressed by Del Toro's work and left satisfied with incredible visual effects (as well as practicalA disturbingly chilling drama focused around a child's imagination during the Spanish civil war in 1944. I walked into this hoping to be impressed by Del Toro's work and left satisfied with incredible visual effects (as well as practical effects) and dramatic tension.… Expand
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10
senbladeOct 7, 2019
Величайшее творение искусства - фильм, притягивающий буквально всем из чего состоит. Лабиринт Фавна - одна из лучших просмотренных мною картин, которая подарила мне ярчайшие, незабываемые эмоции и легкую депрессию.Величайшее творение искусства - фильм, притягивающий буквально всем из чего состоит. Лабиринт Фавна - одна из лучших просмотренных мною картин, которая подарила мне ярчайшие, незабываемые эмоции и легкую депрессию.
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9
criticnonameJan 24, 2020
incredible, fantastic, brilliant are the words that define a masterpiece by guillermo del toro
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7
AndrewHordMay 29, 2020
Wonderful and marvelous film.It is one of the greatest fantasy films of 21th century,but i can`t consider it as masterpiece.Its rating by critics is overrated.
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10
DrZombieSep 1, 2020
A fairy tale where the humans are the real monsters, stunning visuals, great acting and superb direction by Guillermo del Toro proves once again he is one of the best storytellers of the modern era.
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10
dmturnerJul 29, 2020
One of my all-time favourite movies. I love its mix of real-world horror and fantasy horror. You fall in love with the world it creates.
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10
Fuzzbuzz2025Dec 9, 2020
The brutalities of war, the descent to madness, and the importance of family are all presented in such a way to make you feel for all the characters in this true work of art. All these themes being shown through the eyes of a child is myThe brutalities of war, the descent to madness, and the importance of family are all presented in such a way to make you feel for all the characters in this true work of art. All these themes being shown through the eyes of a child is my kryptonite to movies. Please watch this masterpiece, for it will make you feel emotions you have never felt before. Unless you are under 18, blood and/or gore makes you sick, you don't speak Spanish and hate reading subtitles, are afraid of goat people, cannibalism, unsettling scenes, or are allergic to one of, if not the, best movie ever made.… Expand
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10
Conor_DimmockJan 14, 2021
I can safely categorize this movie as a masterpiece. I have watched it many times and it has never failed to leave me in a state of awe. In this film, Guillermo del Toro, explores good and evil in a way that is uniquely his own. He expertlyI can safely categorize this movie as a masterpiece. I have watched it many times and it has never failed to leave me in a state of awe. In this film, Guillermo del Toro, explores good and evil in a way that is uniquely his own. He expertly weaves to together the incredible world of the supernatural (and the monsters that inhabit it) that exist in his story, with the visceral reality of civil war in a world far more familiar to us. Overall I would rank this film as one of the best ever made and I highly recommend it.
(Watch in it's original language)… Expand
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9
inazaeJun 7, 2021
リアルとファンタジーが同時進行でスートーリーが進みます。目をそむけたくなる場面も多いですが楽しめました。少女の悲しい物語です。ファンタジーは現実逃避のようにも思われますリアルとファンタジーが同時進行でスートーリーが進みます。目をそむけたくなる場面も多いですが楽しめました。少女の悲しい物語です。ファンタジーは現実逃避のようにも思われます
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10
RoyaClancyJun 26, 2021
this is my favorite movie. fabulous story, great directing and visually stunning.
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7
NickTheCritickApr 19, 2022
Spain 1944. Franco's army is bending the last fringes of resistance to the "normalization" of the country, now almost totally under Franco's control. Carmen, a young widow, married Vidal, an army captain, and joins him with her 12-year-oldSpain 1944. Franco's army is bending the last fringes of resistance to the "normalization" of the country, now almost totally under Franco's control. Carmen, a young widow, married Vidal, an army captain, and joins him with her 12-year-old daughter Ofelia. The little girl suffers from the presence of the arrogant stepfather and tries to help her mother who is going through a difficult pregnancy. Her refuge is the world of fairy tales which materializes with the presence of a faun who reveals his true identity to her. She is the princess of an underground kingdom. To reach it he will have to pass three dangerous tests. This is a beautiful and fascinating work by Del Toro, which can only be criticized for his excessive search for easy tears and rain in the wet.… Expand
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10
jerekdeeterNov 27, 2021
Absolutely stunning imagery and story. It's one of my favorite movies of all time. If you haven't seen it yet, do yourself a favor and watch it ASAP.
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10
DunkaccinoNov 13, 2022
I envy anyone who has not experienced the film in its entirety. Del Toro, along with his wonderful team, have crafted a true fairy tale. Pan’s Labyrinth is unsettling, riveting, as the greatest tales are—except it’s even better than those
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8
joboxrno1Jul 3, 2022
Excellent CGI, Really good story, Acting was spot on even by the young actress (btw, she is absolutely drop dead gorgeous today).
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7
DolphinReviewsNov 25, 2022
A good fantasy movie that does enough to change up the formula to keep the viewer interested.
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9
9jonnywyomingSep 8, 2022
A fantastic fantasy/peroid drama film! Del Toro just knocked it out of the park with this one. The story is political but the script never gets preachy, modern Hollywood screenwriters shoud take notes from this movie.
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10
GiugiOct 2, 2022
A very sad story that speaks of a little girl with a lot of imagination that eventually reaches her goal. This is a very deep film and not suitable for children even if the protagonist is a child. In conclusion the film is also at times scaryA very sad story that speaks of a little girl with a lot of imagination that eventually reaches her goal. This is a very deep film and not suitable for children even if the protagonist is a child. In conclusion the film is also at times scary and with a dramatic and unexpected ending.… Expand
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10
abc1234567890Mar 20, 2023
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I love this scary 01 hour: and 58 minutes movie!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!… Expand
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10
canisfamiliarisJul 24, 2023
Guillermo's best film although he very rarely fails to entertain. Great movie, great monster design - everything is good.
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