gogoschka-1 A beautiful, atmospheric story about a haunted orphanage. To date, I think it's Del Toro's most "complete" film, combining his trademark visuals with a very touching story about war, death, guilt and grief - and ultimately hope.Like 'Pan's Labyrinth' the story is set against the backdrop of the Spanish civil war (although here the war serves merely as a background noise). The film is so beautifully shot that I would recommend it even to people who don't normally like ghost stories (it does have some scary moments, mind); this one transcends the horror genre. 8 stars out of 10.In case you're interested in more underrated masterpieces, here's some of my favorites:imdb.com/list/ls070242495

PetarDuric Guillermo has proved his talent with a lot of magnificent pieces and this one is such beautiful story. Boy arrived at orphanage and could not even expect what is going to happen to him. From the beginning it was obvious movie is going to reveal us a great deal of secrets that were hidden and it did not disappoint. With his presence Santi just keeps everything going and some of the blackest and deepest secrets come to light. Carlos is absolutely magnificently portrayed and amazing character that just keep landing new stuff and things that are pushed onto him. As the end is coming the orphans had to deal with loss of Dr. Casares and trying to survive without him a three guys that are driven by greed. After only Jacinto is left there they unite and show us how they are powerful and will do anything to survive. Absolutely great story telling and writing done by Guillermo, that created one character that we will not forget Santi. 3/4

Fella_shibby Warning: it is not a horror movie. This is a very sad drama/fantasy movie about civil war, corruption of human nature, greed, lust, weakness, childhood in a volatile situation. The story takes place in an orphanage. In this case the orphanage is cut off from the rest of the world and is far away from the local town. The cinematography adds to the alternating loneliness and claustrophobia. The highlight of this movie is the story and amazing acting by the child actors. The last time I saw such acting was in Stand by me n Lord of the flies. Eduardo Noriega (Eli roth's look alike ) is memorable as greedy Jacinto."Never fear the dead. Fear the living. They are the real danger." ~Guillermo del Toro.

Ciubotariu Anca This is what European cinema is all about. Great movie, great story. Hardly a horror movie. There are some appearances of a child ghost but nothing too scarry. The atmosphere is luxuriant and almost dream like, with surreal elements. The only problem for me was Jacinto who became almost overnight a maniac killer and killed without remorse the children and his girlfriend. There was no building up to this moment. Maybe they should have shown something from his previous life at the orphanage so you could understand what drives him to do it, as the desire for gold was not enough in my opinion, there should have been something more.