Depiction of Evil in Pan's Labyrinth

Though Pan’s Labyrinth is can be classified as a horror movie, the way in which evil is depicted in this fairy tale is very different from the way we have seen illustrated in other films and stories. There are many monsters and fantastic elements to the story, but these characters are not seen as evil. Instead, the forces of evil are seen in human form and are true portrayals of reality. Perhaps this is why the story has such a lasting effect on viewers.

Ofelia’s stepfather, Captain Vidal is seen as the main antagonist in the story as he is depicted as a ruthless, cold blooded murderer, who has silenced his conscience. Committing brutal deeds comes almost naturally to him, and with the power he wields he is able to get away with torturing and shooting people at his whim. People at the camp live in fear of him, and as a result follow his orders with blind obedience. Right before the Doctor is killed for secretively providing supplies to the rebels, he makes it a point to tell the Captain that only people like him are able to obey without any questions. His actions are seen in complete contrast to Ofelia’s. Her actions are based on her innocence and frustrations as a child. Whatever Ofelia decides to do also exhibits a healthy conscience and respect for human life. She proves this when she successfully completes her third task. As a result, everything/everyone that can be directly linked to the Captain, whether it's the men under his command, his dinner guests, or his own personal history have many shades of gray.

Evil in Pan’s Labyrinth can also be described as being the opposite of innocence. It is shown to be overcome with the use of fantasy. Ofelia is able to withstand the darkness and grimness of the world around her because she makes use of her imagination and retreats into a world of fantasy, where she has choices and is able to decide what she wants to do/think on her own. This is the same fantasy world where Ofelia is able to live without any antagonist outside influences with her mother and father.