Read User Reviews and Submit your own for The Orphanage (2007)

8

annbdJan 19, 2018

This is one of the movies, which you discuss with your friends and try to unravel the details, to arrange the whole tangled story. It will definitely take your interest and make you on tenterhooks.

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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2

ManuelA.Dec 27, 2007

Full of cliche and borrows too much from previous movies, not up to the hype

2 of 3 users found this helpful

8

moviegrabbagSep 15, 2011

This movie was absolutely fantastic. The acting was top notch, the set ups for the scary parts was almost torture in how slow and meticulous it set everything up. It even had a couple jump scares that actually worked as well. The ending wasThis movie was absolutely fantastic. The acting was top notch, the set ups for the scary parts was almost torture in how slow and meticulous it set everything up. It even had a couple jump scares that actually worked as well. The ending was also heart wrenching and overall
satisfying. The problems I hear people having are that it's to slow and that it turns into a drama at the end rather then a horror movie. To me these complaints are just from people who probably like the slasher kill them all movies as opposed to horror movies that take their time and let you try to figure out what's happening and why. The ending again is very emotional and is very dramatic. If you like the slower paced movies then this is definitely worth checking out if you haven't you will not be disappointed.… Expand

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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9

SethFJan 4, 2008

Beautifully shot, acted and edited.One of my favorite films this year. It is filled with jumps, goosebumps not to mention heart. It is not a cheap thrill. see it!

1 of 2 users found this helpful

10

IvanM.Dec 26, 2007

I watched this movie last week in Spain... awesome and soooo scary.

1 of 2 users found this helpful

9

danielwDec 26, 2007

The classic gothic horror movie is a sadly dying breed -- swamped by slasher movies and facile monster claptrap. The orphanage is a triumphant return of the genre. It's got it all -- a big house with lots of corners around which things The classic gothic horror movie is a sadly dying breed -- swamped by slasher movies and facile monster claptrap. The orphanage is a triumphant return of the genre. It's got it all -- a big house with lots of corners around which things that go bump in the night may -- or may not -- be lurking, a lighthouse, and a sad looking little boy with a dark secret. But the filmmakers have respect for the genre, and it never descends into camp. This is a seriously scary and stylish piece of filmmaking -- scary, in that it gets under your skin, rather than in that it makes you jump out of your seat.… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful

10

JimSJan 10, 2008

An unusually commited and affecting film, it's not clear that it really belongs in the horror genre. Rueda is lovely and involving, and her son wonderful. Really this is a film about maternal love, under very special circumstances.

1 of 2 users found this helpful

9

rpJan 13, 2008

I did not want to see this movie since I tend to dislike the horror genre. However, the film takes a wonderful detour (I am sure is not to everyone's liking) and the last section of the movie moved me as few movies have. Belen Rueda I did not want to see this movie since I tend to dislike the horror genre. However, the film takes a wonderful detour (I am sure is not to everyone's liking) and the last section of the movie moved me as few movies have. Belen Rueda might be the reason why this movie works so well.… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful

10

JohnD.Dec 27, 2007

Probably the best horror film since The others but in another level. This is more like a drama with some horror moments. Belén Rueda gives one of the most devastating performances of the recent years, probably the best female Probably the best horror film since The others but in another level. This is more like a drama with some horror moments. Belén Rueda gives one of the most devastating performances of the recent years, probably the best female performance of the year.… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful

10

JustinMDec 28, 2007

Easily the best film I've seen all year. Despite some unnecessarily drawn out scenes, the camera work is amazing, the suspense is palpable and realistic, and ultimately you're left with a sense of finality.

1 of 2 users found this helpful

9

JoeU.Dec 29, 2007

I always read the best and worst reviews for all films on Metacritic. It is interesting that one of the best features of this fillm, in my humble opinion, which is a moving and surprising ending, happens to be what the worst review (NY Daily I always read the best and worst reviews for all films on Metacritic. It is interesting that one of the best features of this fillm, in my humble opinion, which is a moving and surprising ending, happens to be what the worst review (NY Daily News) describes as an "unsatisfactory" ending. That´s why we are all different.... Add to that what I thought was a good story line, good direction, beautiful cinematography, excellent acting by Belen Rueda, and it all adds up to what I thought was quite an entertaining and satisfying movie.… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful

10

MichaelLDec 31, 2007

Excellent, cerebral ghost story in the purest sense of the word. Schlock-meisters like Eli Roth and Rob Zombie take note: this is how an ARTIST crafts a scary film. No gouged eyeballs or buckets of blood...just superb performances, a Excellent, cerebral ghost story in the purest sense of the word. Schlock-meisters like Eli Roth and Rob Zombie take note: this is how an ARTIST crafts a scary film. No gouged eyeballs or buckets of blood...just superb performances, a character driven plot, and lots of "things that go bump in the night"... Hitchcock would be proud. Don't miss this film… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful

9

JohnB.Dec 30, 2007

Many twists without becoming too complicated, i recommend it.

1 of 2 users found this helpful

9

MikeBJan 12, 2008

A great suspense/horror/psychological film that doesn't rely on gore and blood. I haven't had chills like that for years... I actually even shrieked out at one point (as did many others). Films like this renew my hopes for cinema. A great suspense/horror/psychological film that doesn't rely on gore and blood. I haven't had chills like that for years... I actually even shrieked out at one point (as did many others). Films like this renew my hopes for cinema. Now if Hollywood would only see the light. Go see the movie whether you like horror or not.… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful

2

JasonP.Jan 21, 2008

What?! I can't believe I had to sit through 90 minutes of the most boring and pointless sequence of events just to get an "OK" ending. ***SPOILER*** A movie where a mother kills her self over an orphan child and doesn't care one What?! I can't believe I had to sit through 90 minutes of the most boring and pointless sequence of events just to get an "OK" ending. ***SPOILER*** A movie where a mother kills her self over an orphan child and doesn't care one bit about leaving her husband alone and miserable... is just dumb! Oh, and explain to me why Tomas is an evil ghost who smashes the mothers fingers with the door, just to come out all loving and good at the end. What about that old woman who killed the orphans... she shows up out of nowhere in the tool shed (or what ever that room in the front yard is called) to do what? To check if the dead orphans she buried are still dead? And that woman showing up out of nowhere again in front of their car months later just to get hit by a bus... Stupid! I don't understand how anyone can like this film... ***End Spoiler*** I'm soo sick of foreign films getting good reviews from critics, just because it's in another language. If this was made in the U.S. in English, everyone would be trashing this film.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful

10

KenG.Jan 13, 2008

This is one of the scariest, most sensible ghost movies ever made. The pervading sense of dread clings to you throughout, and the clever echoing of Peter Pan & Neverland tightens the tension. There are one or two genuine This is one of the scariest, most sensible ghost movies ever made. The pervading sense of dread clings to you throughout, and the clever echoing of Peter Pan & Neverland tightens the tension. There are one or two genuine jump-out-of-your-seat moments, and the climax packs an emotional punch unequal in horror films today, Bravo!!… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful

10

RegOzFeb 9, 2012

This movie was brilliant! I can't think in anything wrong about it. Perhaps there are some small details that needed to be clarified -if they were not left like that deliberately-, but, in movies, as it is in life, there is always room forThis movie was brilliant! I can't think in anything wrong about it. Perhaps there are some small details that needed to be clarified -if they were not left like that deliberately-, but, in movies, as it is in life, there is always room for improvement. The performances were great, and the characters were perfectly elaborates, so the audience empathize with them. I actually felt pretty close to Laura and Simon, and also to the 'ghost' children and their story. Moreover, this movie manages to continuously surprise us. There is always suspense, which makes it thrilling. In fact, at time, I had goosebumps; that, even though I am not a person who gets easily scared. Further, I love the emotional component of the film, because it was not a movie that dealt merely with death, life, and the super natural world, but it was a movie that confronted us about how each of us deals with his/her humanity. The Orphanage questions our coping mechanisms to face, pain, loss, reality, the 'unknown', and more. I think that those people who see is a 'dumb' 'silly' 'pointless' or 'boring' movie are probably more into gore or have a very narrow perspective about what is horror. I have read some of the reasons why some put this movie just a '1 or 2', and frankly, in most of the cases, their criticism shows an absolutely basic analytical thought. So, if you like intellectual stimulation, this is the movie for you! It is magnificently done. Moreover, the photography is breathtaking, so is the landscape. I loved the ending I found it very powerful...and open to your imagination. I did have tears, and I am not an overly emotional person so that means something to me. I think I can easily watch this movie twice the same day, not just because of its beauty, but also to play myself a bit with the clues...I may be able to discover more about it.!..An end note: I did like this movie more than Pan's Laberynth. I find The Orphanage is much better. Pan's Labyrinth was beautiful -what I enjoyed the most was the art direction- but the whole story didn't really impressed me much. The Orphanage is Del Toro's masterpiece!… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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3

JimMar 18, 2008

Good photography and directing. Boring story, not believable, some good acting from the mother, not frightening at all. It tries to be intelligent but fails miserably.

1 of 4 users found this helpful

2

SteveApr 29, 2008

I can't decide which one disappointed me more: The movie or Metacritic. I think US movie critics' opinion won't count for me anymore.

1 of 4 users found this helpful

9

CatullusP.Jul 17, 2008

An almost unbearably chilling film with surprising emotional heft and humanity, which makes this a highly original entry in the thriller genre. Scary, yes, but heartbreaking, compassionate and sad as well. The cast--especially the An almost unbearably chilling film with surprising emotional heft and humanity, which makes this a highly original entry in the thriller genre. Scary, yes, but heartbreaking, compassionate and sad as well. The cast--especially the mother--the direction, the gorgeous photography, the music--are all first class. The Orphanage succeeds brilliantly with tropes that are familiar to the genre. Like a great song, it contains many familiar chords and notes and yet is put together in such a way that makes you feel as if you're seeing it for the first time. I can't imagine what it must take to pull something like this off. Those looking for cheap thrills and gore won't find it here. This movie requires an attention span above 9 years old.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful

8

MichaelF.Jan 17, 2008

Truly frightening in an old-school, tasteful way.

0 of 1 users found this helpful

6

TravisCJan 9, 2008

The movie was okay, but not that frightening nor original. Relied too heavily on schlocky music to induce a sense of fear. Worth seeing, but hardly award-worthy.

0 of 1 users found this helpful

10

TomL.Mar 21, 2008

One of the most intense, horrifying movies I've watched for a long time. It's simple and elegant in the way that it's shot, yet immerses you into an unforgiving world where anything is possible. This movie is a true horror One of the most intense, horrifying movies I've watched for a long time. It's simple and elegant in the way that it's shot, yet immerses you into an unforgiving world where anything is possible. This movie is a true horror movie which guarantees goosebumps. Definately recommended and I will be buying this on DVD. Superb!… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful

9

PrinkipperSkippleMar 27, 2008

Great film. Like Pan's Labyrinth, don't get caught up in the supernatural aspects and see it in very human terms and it is still both scary and touching

0 of 1 users found this helpful

10

NathanN.Mar 3, 2008

This is a seriously scary movie. Visually it goes to extremes in being perfect and even the can't be helped cliche parts work well. This movie is a lot like The Ring in how it delivers the goosebumps, even though you know its only a This is a seriously scary movie. Visually it goes to extremes in being perfect and even the can't be helped cliche parts work well. This movie is a lot like The Ring in how it delivers the goosebumps, even though you know its only a movie. If you like this one you'll also like Session 9.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful

10

PJCorpuzMar 30, 2008

Even if you take away the horror aspect of this film, its still wonderful!

0 of 1 users found this helpful

7

JayH.Apr 15, 2008

Visually very impressive, like all Guillermo Del Toro films, he is also gifted and drawing the viewer into a film. Suspenseful, fascinating and a well crafted film. Good cinematography and art direction.

0 of 2 users found this helpful

6

NW.May 17, 2008

I was honestly a bit disappointed with this... I think I went in with high expectations, and more of a Guillermo Del Toro touch. Definitely had the atmosphere, but I was hoping for more frights.

0 of 1 users found this helpful

9

BrianW.May 23, 2008

Was so well done, I forgot that this was in Spanish with English subtitles. Guillermo Del Toro is a genius. I investigate the paranormal and it takes a lot to scare me, which very few horror movies have ever done. This one made me actually Was so well done, I forgot that this was in Spanish with English subtitles. Guillermo Del Toro is a genius. I investigate the paranormal and it takes a lot to scare me, which very few horror movies have ever done. This one made me actually get up out of my chair on more than one occasion. Nice to see a plot that hasn't been overuse in previous movies and the creepy kids factor was very well played. Acting was very good in this film, and sold the plot amazingly.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful

10

DavidMay 31, 2008

This was an excellent movie even though when you stand back and look it is really just a haunted house pic. The movie maker that can get a jump from an audience from a simple slamming door like this did is the new Hitchcock.

0 of 1 users found this helpful

9

KevinC.Mar 29, 2009

A beautiful film the evokes a creepy atmosphere instead of going for cheap scares. It plays with your expectations, as some of the things you think are important end up being inconsequential, or vice versa, creating a conclusion that is A beautiful film the evokes a creepy atmosphere instead of going for cheap scares. It plays with your expectations, as some of the things you think are important end up being inconsequential, or vice versa, creating a conclusion that is completely logical but that still manages to surprise you. My one caveat is that I wish they had included a couple of the deleted scenes to add more of the character depth, but maybe it's hindsight and if they were in there I would think they were spoon-feeding the end to me.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful

6

KatieM.Dec 30, 2007

The movie was enjoyable, but did not contribute anything new to the genre. The plot, resolution, and underlying themes--corruption or perversion of childhood, redemption of mother's love--reminded me of recent American J-Horror The movie was enjoyable, but did not contribute anything new to the genre. The plot, resolution, and underlying themes--corruption or perversion of childhood, redemption of mother's love--reminded me of recent American J-Horror adaptations such as The Ring and Dark Water. Also, a lot of the "scares" were more unintentionally comedic than actually scary. Overall a "good" film, but don't leave to go to the restroom--you may miss one of the two critical explanatory scenes (without them, the story really doesn't make sense).… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful

8

ChadS.Jan 12, 2008

Simon(Roger Princep) is HIV-positive, which serves as a metaphor, I think, for the aesthetics of the way this filmmaker reworks the horror genre to his liking. We expect blood, but "The Orphanage" is nearly bloodless. Using AIDS as an Simon(Roger Princep) is HIV-positive, which serves as a metaphor, I think, for the aesthetics of the way this filmmaker reworks the horror genre to his liking. We expect blood, but "The Orphanage" is nearly bloodless. Using AIDS as an analogy: If somebody with the virus bleeds, there's a fear of being infected. Just the very idea of an infected person shedding tainted blood scares us. After years of sitting through so many American horror films(mostly bad), we've been conditioned to expect arterial sprays, red drippings, or some manner of spectacular bloodletting. As it turns out, nobody spills an ounce of blood in "The Orphanage", but the film manages to induce an anxiety about some death rendered in grisly detail. Simon is representative of this filmmaker's sensibilities. The young boy doesn't have to bleed to scare the bejesus out of us. "The Orphanage" takes a page out of the "Poltergeist" handboo-(make the horror twofold; human(an abducted child) and supernatural(ghosts)- with cribnotes from "The Blair Witch Project"(black screen, the human face in fearful repose), and god help us all, Steven Spielberg's worst title from his filmography. Most impressive of all is how the ghosts don't flicker, or fade away; they're either corporeal or suggested. "The Orphanage" is cerebral, but by no means is it a deconstruction of the genre. In the film's last ten minutes, you get the raw emotion of Ingmar Bergman's "Cries and Whispers" and the Spielbergian uplift of "Kick the Can"(the second segment from "The Twilight Zone: The Movie"). Pretty cool, huh.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful

9

THWJan 14, 2008

Scares you the old fashioned way, with your own imagination and fear of the unknown. A refreshing change from the overly gory Hollywood trash that's been polluting the horror genre. A great methodical, suspense ridden film.

0 of 1 users found this helpful

10

AbbyLFeb 13, 2008

I absolutely LOVED this movie. Personally I think everything Sergio Sanchez and Guillermero Del Toro (spelling?) touch turns to gold. But I'm a sucker for Spanish/Mexican films. And this movie did not disappoint.

0 of 1 users found this helpful

8

Mr.PotatoR.Mar 11, 2008

@Jason P. You have obviously not understood anything about this movie![***SPOILER***]The mother kills herself out of guilt. She was responsible for the boys death (think about that).As I understood the boy that pushes the mother and @Jason P. You have obviously not understood anything about this movie![***SPOILER***]The mother kills herself out of guilt. She was responsible for the boys death (think about that).As I understood the boy that pushes the mother and 'smashes' her fingers is not a ghost but her son wearing the mask (when she finds him dead he is still wearing it).The old woman was alarmed when she realized that people have moved back into the orphanage and acted without thinking - you are right this is as much unreasonable as it is realistic: just imagine that you have killed someone and hidden his corpse on the basement of an abandoned house, and at some point you are told that someone has moved in. Plus she… Expand

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10

THESMar 28, 2008

How frightening a horror becomes to watch always depends to an extent upon the individual - their fears, phobias (and subconcious even?). To my mind, The Orphanage is the most frightening movie I have ever endured. It is also expertly paced How frightening a horror becomes to watch always depends to an extent upon the individual - their fears, phobias (and subconcious even?). To my mind, The Orphanage is the most frightening movie I have ever endured. It is also expertly paced and evocatively shot.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful

10

JLApr 14, 2008

One of the most amazing movies I have ever seen. It really moves you inside.

0 of 1 users found this helpful

8

MattD.Apr 22, 2008

An excellent, chilling story that creates suspense without the mindless use of gory props and fake screams and has enough plot twists to keep it interesting. It must be (and deserves to be) watched at full volume in a quiet, dark room to An excellent, chilling story that creates suspense without the mindless use of gory props and fake screams and has enough plot twists to keep it interesting. It must be (and deserves to be) watched at full volume in a quiet, dark room to have the greatest effect.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful

9

RadrianMay 22, 2008

Great movie. On par with some of the best Hitchcock made. Amazing ending.

0 of 1 users found this helpful

9

RyanM.May 27, 2008

Simple, well shot, ghost story that has more depth in it's simplicity and mood than the obvious American style scares with monsters and gore. Great, even, and chilling made this film worthwhile..

0 of 1 users found this helpful

9

LuizJun 14, 2008

Fantastic! The movie captures the attention from the first minute till it´s brilliant ending. A must see!

0 of 1 users found this helpful

8

EmericCAug 11, 2009

Great movie, but the ending could've been better.

0 of 1 users found this helpful

10

SeanW.Jan 22, 2008

It's so rare to find a horror movie in this day and age that has a genuine story and quality writing. Far too often it's full of genre cliches that disappoint. The Orphange is a definite masterpiece.

0 of 1 users found this helpful

10

CarolinaG.Apr 15, 2008

A completely unexpected ending. A movie full of details. I liked the way in which they turned a simple orphanage horror movie into a true original story. Loved the screenplay.

0 of 1 users found this helpful

8

ModestusQ.Apr 23, 2008

The horror genre has been inundated with mediocre and derivative films, or absolute dreck for longer than I care to recall. It is such a breath of fresh air when one comes along that not only redeems the genre, but also transcends it. This The horror genre has been inundated with mediocre and derivative films, or absolute dreck for longer than I care to recall. It is such a breath of fresh air when one comes along that not only redeems the genre, but also transcends it. This is such a film. 'The Orphanage' has the chills, thrills and scares, but also delivers a genuinely moving and thoroughly engaging human story. One aspect of this film I particularly enjoyed is that it never relented character and subtlety in favor of a seemingly bottomless bag of "Boo" tricks. Wonderful and highly recommended!… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful

8

[Anonymous]Jun 18, 2008

Screw you, Steve. You don't know what a good film is. Sure it coulda been shorter and characters coulda been developed more. But it is scarier than any other film I've ever seen. So Steve, go to hell, and cry like the little bitch you are.

0 of 1 users found this helpful

10

AustinFeb 25, 2009

Terrific suspense and a great textured story. The acting is much better than I'd expected. The ending was one of the most moving to ever come out of the horror genre. Well worth your time! See it!

0 of 1 users found this helpful

8

ERG1008Sep 1, 2010

Woman moves her family back into the orphanage she grew up in as a child, son has "new friends", strange things start happening.
Really well put together ghost story that moves along well. Brilliant locations & well directed with some properWoman moves her family back into the orphanage she grew up in as a child, son has "new friends", strange things start happening.
Really well put together ghost story that moves along well. Brilliant locations & well directed with some proper chilling moments along the way.
Un, dos, tres, toca la pared!!… Expand

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8

Groover733Feb 4, 2012

This is easily one of the most affective horror movies in the past few years, and certainly one of the best that I've ever seen. This movie runs on suspense and a great story that has you actually caring about Laura and her family. Don't letThis is easily one of the most affective horror movies in the past few years, and certainly one of the best that I've ever seen. This movie runs on suspense and a great story that has you actually caring about Laura and her family. Don't let the subtitles throw you off because if you skip this spanish film then you're only doing yourself an injustice. Perhaps one of the best parts of this movie is its great ending that makes sense and is sad, yet you don't really question it. Sorry 'Saw' fans, there's no blood or much gore in this movie but that's the flaw of those movies anyway. If you want a clean, suspenseful movie that makes you think then give this movie a try. Definitely worth it!… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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8

fanguychrisApr 30, 2012

Great film, definitely one of the better horror films out there. Cleverly directed and while it may not be the scariest film out there, it is still full of some very creepy moments and clever jump moments. The idea of using a child to scareGreat film, definitely one of the better horror films out there. Cleverly directed and while it may not be the scariest film out there, it is still full of some very creepy moments and clever jump moments. The idea of using a child to scare the audience has been used so many times before and while its not an original idea, it's handled well here. Overall The Orphanage is a great film, it has a clever story, interesting characters and some really creepy twists, it could have used a bit of clarification in its ending but otherwise it's a great horror movie, just remember to put English subtitles on.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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8

axelkochOct 31, 2012

Much more than the usual jump-scare horror movies! 'The Orphanage' is very burdensome in a way I've never seen before with a horror/thriller movie. Its story and the closure of it are fantastic, the screenplay is one of the utterly best inMuch more than the usual jump-scare horror movies! 'The Orphanage' is very burdensome in a way I've never seen before with a horror/thriller movie. Its story and the closure of it are fantastic, the screenplay is one of the utterly best in this genre. The acting really got me, the way the little kid plays is fantastic! It's not that mysterious, weird manner like in movies as 'The Omen' - it's just a normal kid with ominous things happening around him. The medium doesn't feel unrealistic like in ANY other horror film and Belén Rueda, the main actress, doesn't ever get hysterious. This movie truly is a renovation in the mystery genre. Albeit the viewer doesn't catch sight of the really scary scenes in this movie, the whole aura of the film is creepy and your heart beats twice as fast usual while watching it. I wasn't completely pleased with the medium scene or the resolution, but nevertheless 'The Orphanage' is one of the best scary movies I've ever seen and by the way also great in other aspcets like acting, screenplay, cinematography or the disquieting score. Go and watch this movie!… Expand

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8

KivaJun 12, 2013

A fantastic movie that will chill you and frighten you at some points. Extraordinary photography and plot. Really liked Belen Rueda. The end was surprisingly sad. A great thriller

0 of 3 users found this helpful03

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9

wrightm1Jun 26, 2013

I thought I'd like this. I never considered it to be one of the strongest horrors of the 21st century.

Nowadays there seems to be a common trope in horror movies, consisting of quite noises then a 'BANG', then doing something then 'BANG'.I thought I'd like this. I never considered it to be one of the strongest horrors of the 21st century.

Nowadays there seems to be a common trope in horror movies, consisting of quite noises then a 'BANG', then doing something then 'BANG'. The art of jump scares has really taken hold of our horror stories. This film does not use cheap scares, and it also doesn't waste it's story, characters or time in general.

There is an emotional arc to this film.

In a horror. I know.

There is a sense of tragedy and loss, and although this film is scary, it also has heart. The film is very similar to Pan's Labyrinth in way of tone- Guillermo del Toro, of course, was involved. The difference is that this film is a hell of a lot scarier, but I did find myself feeling like this was Pan's sequel almost.

All I have to say really is that people need to see this.

Thank God the remake has been put on hold. They better not touch it.

I won't spoil much, but simply instruct. See this film. Experience the perfect mix of horror, suspense, drama and fantasy.… Expand

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10

DanielleM.May 27, 2008

This movie was amazing, i couldn't get enough. You really have to pay attention to understand whats going on. I like it when a movie keeps you on the edge of your set, and this one does.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

7

TheQuietGamerOct 22, 2018

Like a slightly lesser version of The Devil's Backbone, J.A. Bayona's directorial debut is more concerned with telling a story built around past trauma than frightening viewers with it's wandering spirits. It has that mystical storybookLike a slightly lesser version of The Devil's Backbone, J.A. Bayona's directorial debut is more concerned with telling a story built around past trauma than frightening viewers with it's wandering spirits. It has that mystical storybook quality I've come to expect from Spanish horror. While tragedy is what's carrying the narrative forward, this is actually a very sweet tale. A warm-hearted ending awaits those who are brave enough to spend the night in these haunted halls. But fear not! Nothing that goes bump in the night is actually scary at all.

That's my one problem with the movie. There was nothing that ever caused me any apprehension or sent shivers up my spine. No reason to fear. The wonderfully acted story was all there was to keep me going. Fortunately that proved to be enough. I was fully invested in the mystery and characters.

I can't fault Bayona's directing much. He's never able to instill any terror, but he is able to give the setting some atmosphere. The cinematography is beautiful and he does at least try to frame a few scenes to be creepy. I just found the tone to be more on the sadness and love side of the emotional spectrum. This is a drama with a little bit of horror running in the background. Sort of like a film one would expect from it's producer, Guillermo del Toro. While nowhere near as good as one of his movies, The Orphanage is still a decent slice of Spanish cinema because it remembers that often the best works of horror are known just as much for their story as their frights. I just wish it had more of the latter of those two qualities.… Expand

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7

fungusgnatMay 12, 2016

Bayona and Sánchez frost their psychic chiller with some psychology, and if the result is not the most original film of this genre, there is plenty to like in it—a sterling lead adult performance, a beautiful score (in the old “AmericanBayona and Sánchez frost their psychic chiller with some psychology, and if the result is not the most original film of this genre, there is plenty to like in it—a sterling lead adult performance, a beautiful score (in the old “American style,” per the filmmakers), intriguing references to the Peter Pan story, a suspenseful puzzle for the grown-up to solve, and things that go “bump” in the night, though treatment of the paranormal is sensitive and restrained—things could’ve bumped harder, but that’s a matter of taste. (Newsweek’s Ansen said of his screening-room audience, “We were alone with our fears, but we quivered as one.”) (Triggers: Not a gross-out movie, but not for the squeamish, either.) (DVD: The “making of” material is better than average.)… Expand

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9

SpangleOct 15, 2015

The Orphanage is a truly brilliant work from director J.A. Bayona, Guillermo del Toro's protege. As a horror film, "El Orfanato" is incredibly terrifying and has you on the edge of your seat until the very end. The use of sound, mystery, andThe Orphanage is a truly brilliant work from director J.A. Bayona, Guillermo del Toro's protege. As a horror film, "El Orfanato" is incredibly terrifying and has you on the edge of your seat until the very end. The use of sound, mystery, and great horror acting, all combine to make for one seriously scary film. However, where The Orphanage truly knocks it out of the park is the ending. Truly, it manages to take it from being a great horror flick to one of the better films I have ever seen.
*SPOILERS*
The ending is truly great for its portrayal of death and loss. There are few films that deal with it as well as this one. It still works as a horror film by allowing in the emotional element, but works very well even as a non-horror film, even though all of the scares are explained by largely rationale things.
*END SPOILERS*

The Orphanage is an absolutely impeccable film with a fantastic story, beautiful costumes, a creepy atmosphere, beautiful set pieces, and an overall wonderful ending. Truly, you must watch The Orphanage.… Expand

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6

Meth-dudeNov 8, 2018

The acting was great, the visuals were interesting, the story was intriguing and the first half of the movie is genuinely atmospheric and scary. Unfortunately, during the last half of the movie, it becomes cliché and predictable, the tenseThe acting was great, the visuals were interesting, the story was intriguing and the first half of the movie is genuinely atmospheric and scary. Unfortunately, during the last half of the movie, it becomes cliché and predictable, the tense atmosphere goes way and the ending was disappointing to say the least. It's not a bad horror flick and if you're interested in ghost movies you might like it, but don't expect anything mind blowing.… Expand

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9

alejandro970Jun 20, 2021

Algo que debemos agradecer fue que aprovecharon un recurso tan conocido -la casa embrujada- con el mayor provecho posible, con una historia que sabe transmitir al espectador la ansiedad de la protagonista, con un hábil uso del suspenso. SinAlgo que debemos agradecer fue que aprovecharon un recurso tan conocido -la casa embrujada- con el mayor provecho posible, con una historia que sabe transmitir al espectador la ansiedad de la protagonista, con un hábil uso del suspenso. Sin los últimos tres minutos, estaría mucho mejor. Tomen nota de la actuación de alguien bien conocido en México: Edgar Vivar.… Expand

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6

JLuis_001Feb 6, 2018

When this film was released in Mexico it was widely publicized with Guillermo del Toro's name, so a lot of people believed the film was actually his and therefore when they saw it they faced their expectations with something they weren'tWhen this film was released in Mexico it was widely publicized with Guillermo del Toro's name, so a lot of people believed the film was actually his and therefore when they saw it they faced their expectations with something they weren't expecting and many people I know were disappointed by the final result.

Personally I think the film has a fairly respectable quality, but the script mixes too many elements and many times those elements borders the implausible and credible and while the tension that Bayona prints to his story is appropriate and convenient the ending feels rushed and anti-climatic but in general I think The Orphanage is not a bad choice.… Expand

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8

FilipeNetoJul 25, 2018

This movie is a small pearl of horror movies and comes from the country next to me. It tells the story of a couple who went to live in a renovated orphanage and where, soon, their little son begins to see invisible children beforeThis movie is a small pearl of horror movies and comes from the country next to me. It tells the story of a couple who went to live in a renovated orphanage and where, soon, their little son begins to see invisible children before disappearing. From then on, a tense supernatural story unfolds, holding us to the screen until the end. The script is simple but effective, the story is good and the permanent tension is gradually growing. Directed by Juan Antonio Baiona (a director I had never heard of), it is a film that comes in line with other works of the most recent Spanish cinema, by Guillermo del Toro or Alejandro Amenábar. The environments and scenarios have been carefully elaborated and the actors' work (highlighting Belén Rueda and Roger Príncep) is moving and convincing. This is undoubtedly a film that deserves much more visibility, ending up being harmed by its European origin and not having the same advertising machine as the great American works.… Expand

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7

ChrisPaniaguaJun 15, 2021

One of those films from Spain that is worth watching. Hopefully we can see another one that surpasses this one in the future.

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7

DawdlingPoetNov 24, 2021

This is a Spanish movie and again that fact didn't put me off it at all, as I found it easy to watch through reading the subtitles. I don't know why but in the past I would have definitely turned over if I saw a movie wasn't in English but ifThis is a Spanish movie and again that fact didn't put me off it at all, as I found it easy to watch through reading the subtitles. I don't know why but in the past I would have definitely turned over if I saw a movie wasn't in English but if its well made then I'll be alot more open to watching it now, as both of the 'world cinema' movies I've seen in the last week I've enjoyed, which is nice to know.

This movie is very much written like a traditional ghost story, in terms of it having being quite haunting, with the setting in a rather old and dilapidated looking building and with a few scenes showing things that aren't quite right but which others don't always spot at the time. The scenes featuring the child with the peculiar, somewhat creepy looking mask does add a spooky feel to it, although to be honest I wouldn't say that its a very scary movie, its more a little spooky or chilling at one or two points but overall, I didn't find myself shouting out or screaming at all, even though its known as a moderate horror movie, I believe. In a way, its a bit like the Blair Witch movies, in that the creepy scenes and the main 'scares' focus on what you presume what your seeing means (if you know what I mean(?)), its not got much blood or gore (apart from one scene which is a bit graphic but fairly fleeting) but its likely to put a bit of a chill down your spine once or twice. I found myself feeling quite sorry for the mother, I thought her character was quite well written and acted. Its quite an atmospheric movie and I like the ending in a way, although other people probably won't...its hard to say much without giving away the ending but its different to what people may presume, it encompasses both a happy and a sad ending in different ways. Confused? yes I probably would be too if I read this review before watching it but having seen it, thats what comes to mind.

I thought that the story was pretty absorbing and the characters are mainly good, although I was a little sceptical perhaps about one character, that being of a frail elderly woman who appears on the doorstep with no prior warning and whom Laura (the mother) is very suspicious about.

Overall, I thought this was an absorbing movie that was well made.

Yes I'd recommend this movie, I found it quite absorbing and I thought the script was pretty good. Don't let the fact that this movie is in Spanish put you off, its still worth a watch if you can put up with the subtitles, I feel.… Expand

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7

DogeGamer2015Jun 26, 2021

Es una buena película de terror con toques de drama y misterio; la trama es buena, las actuaciones son excelentes, la cinematografía está bien hecha y la música es buena para acompañar las escenas que son inquietantes; es recomendable.

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10

dannyamanda787Jan 17, 2021

Great movie. Pretty original and had me guessing until the end. I would watch it over and over again.

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10

LilyLawnMar 6, 2023

The greatest ghost story I’ve ever seen. Belen Rueda and Roger Princep are wonderful

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