Fans of Lord of the Rings are being encouraged to delve into “one of the best fantasy films ever made”, now accessible for free streaming online.
Pan’s Labyrinth transports audiences to 1944, where a young girl is forced to live with her “ruthless stepfather”. Seeking an escape from her grim reality, she stumbles upon a magical realm that harbours its own terrors.
After encountering a fairy who leads her to an ancient Faun, she learns of her Royal lineage and must undertake arduous tasks to prove her worth – all available to watch on BBC.
The Spanish-language film, complete with English subtitles, has been hailed as essential viewing for Lord of the Rings enthusiasts. It can be streamed for free on BBC iPlayer starting today (July 26).
A BBC synopsis states: “Franco’s Spain, 1944. Bookish young Ofelia, stuck in her sadistic new stepfather’s army outpost, where her ailing mother is to give birth, gets drawn to a fantastical alternate world – one just as disturbing and violent as the reality around her.”, reports the Manchester Evening News.
The 2006 release was so well-received it inspired a book adaptation. With a stellar 95% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, rave reviews continue to roll in.
One viewer praised: “A classic, master class film making and storytelling. Up there with The Lord of The Rings as one of the best fantasy movies ever made.”
Another declared: “Beautiful film that should have won more Oscars!” A third enthused: “A child’s dreamworld and the horror of the civil war collide and entangle in an adult fantasy . A mesmerizing masterpiece.”
A fourth gushed: “I love this movie since the first time I watched it. It has a special place in my memory and in my heart.”
Another simply proclaimed: “A masterpiece in every aspect!”.
One devotee penned: “This is my all time favorite movie, what a masterpiece. Check it out, you won’t be disappointed.”
The film features Ivana Baquero in the role of Ofelia alongside Doug Jones as both the Pale Man and Fauno, whilst audiences will also witness Ariadna Gil portraying Carmen and Sergi López taking on the character of Vidal.
Pan’s Labyrinth is now streaming on BBC iPlayer.