Review: Pan’s Labyrinth (2006)

Pan’s Labyrinth is a picture that decodes the symbols of innocence into a wonderful fairy tale. It is presented in a delicate, sincere, and pure representation of humanity.
The film beautifully covers all its angles and aspects of film starting from the plot to the images to the music. The music was carefully chosen as was a clear bases for all the moods of the movie. Javier Navarrete, the director of music, did a great job understanding the mood of the film and scoring the best music for it. If you listen to the music, you will know the story even before watching it. You will find the soul of Ofelia and her world surrounding you.

The pace of the film is very relaxed which allows the audience to think and really interprets the signs given during the film. The establishing scenes of the characters are interestingly written, and the background stories of the characters were deeply analyzed and understood by the writer. It is easy to believe the characters and understand them because of their flawless acting and their emotions are clear but not over dramatized.
The actors have completely absorbed their characters emotionally, psychologically, and behaviourally; specially Ofelia and Mercedes the maid. Ivana Baquero, who plays the role of Ofelia has successfully made us believe her and see the parallel world she lives in through her eyes. Her understanding of the emotional journey of the character is astonishing. In addition, her sense of the scene’s pace, and the technique between the actor and the green screen was remarkably impressive.
Guillermo del Toro, the director, represents the faun in his story is a very interesting way. Usually, according to world mythologies, fauns are scary and mean creatures, but in this film the director made us feel safe and secured in the faun’s presence. The art production of the film is remarkably believable and unique, using a realistic colour theme that united the two worlds and the imaginary limits of Ofelia.
Overall, the film ha prefect balance between music and film and acting. This vie is high recommended for all young adults and adults. (Warning: Not for the weak of heart)