It’s been a decade since the theatrical release of Pan’s Labyrinth, and to celebrate this 10th anniversary comes a gorgeous and insightful look into the making of this classic.
About ‘Guillermo Del Toro’s Pan’s Labyrinth’
Guillermo Del Toro’s Pan’s Labyrinth: Inside the Creation of a Modern Fairy Tale delves into behind-the-scenes content of the making of the film, with insight from key players who made this dark fantasy come to life. From del Toro’s journal scribblings, to interviews with the actors, director of photography, and producers, including Alfonso Cuarón, no aspect of this film is left undisclosed.
The book details the creation of the nightmarish creatures and sinister sets, from pre-production to post-production and beyond, with reflections from Guillermo Del Toro himself on the film’s critical and audience reception. Also included are exclusive removable items, like a storyboard booklet and pages from del Toro’s notebooks.
Of course, no Pan’s Labyrinth ‘making of’ book would be complete without all the details you’d want (and perhaps more than you can stomach) on the Pale Man. The creation of this iconic character is featured from start to finish. Like everything else in this film, creating the Pale Man was a largely collaborative process, with preliminary disagreements that led to inspiring conclusions.
‘Guillermo Del Toro’s Pan’s Labyrinth’ Review
Upon picking up this tome, you should definitely first flip through the pages and take a look at the stunning concept art that preceded the eerily beautiful finished product. From detailed, original sketches to fully colored drawings, the images tell a story all on their own. It’s incredible to see an idea become a reality, from simple sketches, to full 3D renderings, to what would ultimately be the finished product on screen.
Not only are there visual representations on the progression of digital renderings, but also sets and practical effects. In particular, the feature on the Pale Man is a standout section because you get to see just how much work went into creating the character, both creatively and practically.
The images showing Doug Jones ‘getting into character,’ as makeup and prosthetics are applied, is astounding in both an intriguing and horrifying way. It’s a marvel seeing all that entailed Jones get into costume, but it’s also a striking realization how difficult it was to act with all of the prosthetics on, and the sacrifices made to save time and money.
Making a film is no easy process, but it’s mind-blowing to see how much imagination is required to just start the process. Then, how much those initial ideas change over time as more people become involved, as realities of functionality and time set in, and sacrifices that must be made to make it the best it can be.
Guillermo Del Toro’s Pan’s Labyrinth: Inside the Creation of a Modern Fairy Tale is a must-have for any fan of the iconic film, or even those interested in the film-making process. Pan’s Labyrinth is a beautiful and entertaining film, and what you’ll learn from this book will give you a much larger appreciation for it.