Narrative Analysis of Pan’s Labyrinth
This narrative analysis of Pan’s Labyrinth explains the narrative structure, characters and overall themes that are present in Del Toro’s ‘Pan’s Labyrinth’.
The most predominant theme throughout the film was disobedience. This is consistently explored through the character of Ofelia , as well as certain conflicts within the film such as the rebels who are fighting Captain Vidal.
How narrative study is useful in understanding this film
– Disobedience is a predominant theme throughout Pan’s Labyrinth. This is shown through the protagonist Ofelia, who disobeys many of the instructions she is given throughout the film, including when she eats the grape in the pale man’s lair. However this rebelliousness was articulated from the start when she refused her mothers instructions to call captain Vidal her ‘father’.
– Pan’s Labyrinth has a split narrative between the real world and the fantasy world.
– The film is mostly set in a forest or ‘underworld’ communicates that this film is fantasy genre. Pan’s Labyrinth also has implications of actual fairy tales and in some cases biblical references.
– The mystical creatures that help Ofelia on her journey such as the faun are considered the donor in Vladimir Propp’s character theory. This is because he gives her the equipment and guidance that she needs in order to complete her quest.
– Captain Vidal is perceived as the monster in the real world but it is suggested that he is represented as the Pale Man in the fantasy world. Without narrative study it would be near impossible to find the link between them.
– Ofelias journey begins when the faun is introduced.This meeting is what starts the two major plots in the film.