The Devil's Backbone
4
By One of the Best Debuts in Rap History
It seems like everyone either loves the film or despises it. Critics rave and call it "suspenseful and moving" while others pan it claiming "boring and dull." Truth be told, The Devil's Backbone is one of the most original titles around.
The movie acts on a simple plot of ghosts, but goes deeper pulling at heart strings. I honestly would not consider this a horror flick, if you're looking for something psychologically creepy you may enjoy it. If you're looking for pop out terror with loud music and special effects, I would stay away from this one. Del Toro has stated that this is his most "personal film" and it shows.
My issue is not with the movie itself, but the way the media portrays the film. The trailer on iTunes makes this seem like a suspenseful, uneasy HORROR movie. In reality, this is a thriller, a heart wrenching drama. While there is much climax, suspension, spooky illusions, and cruel, dark tales this is by no means horror.
For the movie itself, it's a great film. BE WARNED IT'S IN SPANISH WITH ENGLISH SUBTITLES! The acting is perfect and has truly one of the greatest antagonists in history of cinema. The climax is pure gold, and speaking of gold you find that gold may not be all the important. A heart warming, yet tragic tale of loss, passion, and betrayal. The entire movie is an A and definitely one of my favorites.
The only reason I gave it four stars instead of five is because while I appreciate a warming message I believe the film to be a bit too preachy. It can at times seem like propaganda. The gist of the film is this: Fight for what you have. Don't hurt the ones who care for you. Seek relationships and love rather than material things. In a saddening way, I feel at times like it reminiscence that of a Hallmark movie. And made for TV ain't so good, sorry to say. Though, I do find the film highly enjoyable with only a slight flaw.
I recommend the film. Not a must see, rather a need to see at least once. It doesn't really have a specific genre keep in mind. Don't be fooled, though they call it horror it's more heartfelt than scary.