Pan's Labyrinth (cinema, film, theater, scenes)

[BlueWillowPlate]

This movie is NOT for children, but it sure is good.
Set in Civil War Spain, it is a mixture of fantasy and brutal (and I do mean brutal) realism. A little girl is assigned a series of difficult tasks. Lives are in the balance.
Incredible makeup and set design. Anyone else see it?

[dullnboring]

I haven't seen it but I really want to after seeing it pick up all of those Oscars last month. I had only heard the name in passing before and then googled it after the Awards and it sounded interesting. I'll check it out soon.

[plaidmom]

From my post in the "movies" thread.

Glad to hear you liked it. As I mentioned earlier, worth paying the extra $$$ to see it on the big screen.

Originally Posted by plaidmom

Speaking of movies...

I know we've mainly been discussing titles on DVD, but I went to the theater this weekend and saw "Pan's Labyrinth " ("El Laberinto del Fauno").

Wonderful acting. Beautiful cinematography. Very violent (definitely not for the kiddos!)

Glad I was able to see it on the big screen, although the film left me a bit "down" for the rest of the day and I had disturbing dreams last night.

Would love to hear others' opinions.

[ellie]

I was scared to see it. I don't do well with violence or tragedy. Still, one of these days I will watch it, but not now.

[tigerlily]

I caught Del Toro's interview on NPR's "Fresh Air" segment. The interview was enough to make me have nightmares.

[BlueWillowPlate]

I'll have to find the interview online.
I really liked the movie, and found it uplifting rather than a downer, but yes, it had some really hard to watch moments.
In a way, it reminded me a bit of Children of Men. So bleak, yet with a kernel of hope, and beautifully shot.

[plaidmom]

Originally Posted by ellie

I was scared to see it. I don't do well with violence or tragedy. Still, one of these days I will watch it, but not now.

I have a weird thing about torture.I cannot bear it (keeps me from being a dyed-in-the-wool Tarantino fan). It bothers me more than other forms of violence. It applies to both humans and animals. I can handle quick and painless death(I accept that as a necessary part of nature)....but not torture and suffering {{{shudder}}}.

That being said, this is still an excellent film, and if you are intrigued, I would suggest viewing the film with a close and trusted friend. That's what I do. I close my eyes at those torture scenes and ask "is it ok?" A quick squeeze of the hand , and I know it's ok to open my eyes.

I have a (personal) problem with graphic, violent and colorful nightmares and need to limit my exposure to such outside images...but as an artist I also enjoy great film and don't want to rob myself of certain cinematic experiences.

This film, really, does end on a hopeful note and the cinematography is excellent.

[ontheroad]

I listened to the interview after I saw your post--and it made me want to see the film and push it up on my Movies List.

Del Toro is a fascinating thinker.

Originally Posted by tigerlily

I caught Del Toro's interview on NPR's "Fresh Air" segment. The interview was enough to make me have nightmares.

[girleylips]

it was a pretty aweosme movie very unique and that's why i loved it....