The Devil's Backbone - 8 stars out of 10

The Devil's Backbone - 8 stars out of 10

"The Devil's Backbone" is a very upsetting movie. With its incredibly devastating images, it is more disturbing than scary (though it sports one of the most effective jump moments in any movie). Showing young boys breaking their ankles and having shrapnel removed from their backs will keep you cringing and make you susceptible to the sad undertones that fuel this nightmare. Unlike "Pan's Labrinth"s imagery-driven intensity, this film gains its intensity from gifted actors, particularly child actors Fernando Tielve and Inigo Garces. Their convincing emotions will draw you into the film. Additionally, the beautiful Irene Visedo will make it difficult to look away from the screen while Eduardo Noriega makes a sinister antagonist. When you realize who the true bad guy is, you'll find him absolutely despicable and want to throw things at the tv. The film successfully avoids the typical "sci-fi confusion" as the most confusing part about this film is its title, suggesting that it will be about demons instead of ghosts (note: if that is what you wanted to see, watch "Devil" which is, in fact, about the devil). Finally, I must acknowledge Guillermo del Toro for another intense and perfectly delivered story. I don't think that it's as good as "The Others" (which was also released in 2001), but it's a very effective ghost story that will have you grasping your cuddle buddy and trying not to look away.