The Cloud’s Silver Lining: Hope and Optimism in Pan’s Labyrinth
Even though “Pan’s Labyrinth” expresses the harsh reality of war, death, and fear, not only does hope stay alive, but the film has an optimistic outlook as well (Chau, 2012). In the following critical review, “hope” and “optimism” will be discussed concerning the fantasy elements (“Strange and Unfamiliar Worlds,” “A Magic System,” and “Mythology”) and the filming support. Firstly, the “fantasy” genre will be defined. Secondly, the three fantasy elements, as mentioned above, will be stated. Lastly, the fantasy elements and the filming support will be applied to “Pan’s Labyrinth” in order to identify the “hope” and “optimism” that occur.
Penn (2013) defines “fantasy” as a genre that typically highlights the use of magic or other supernatural phenomena in the plot structure, setting, or theme. Furthermore, magical or mythological creatures often feature, as well as races other than humans, such as elves, dwarves, or goblins. Additionally, the worlds within fantasy books are usually medieval in style, both in terms of technology and culture (Penn, 2013).
…show more content…
In order to immerse readers into the world, one must develop one’s setting thoroughly and thoughtfully (Penn, 2013; Bradshaw, 2016).
The fantasy element, “A Magic System,” refers to things that occur or exist in a story that do not or cannot exist in the real world. Elements of sorcery, witchcraft and enchantment, fantastical creatures and the supernatural, and advanced abilities or powers have no basis in real-world evidence or logic (Penn, 2013; Bradshaw, 2016)
The fantasy element, “Mythology,” can consist of monsters, creatures, and magic, the content(s) and theme(s) based on an early historical traditional story that concerns a social or natural phenomenon (Penn,