Oscar-winning filmmaker Guillermo del Toro returned to the Cannes Film Festival this week to celebrate the 20th anniversary of his acclaimed fantasy masterpiece Pan’s Labyrinth, two decades after the movie received a historic 22-minute standing ovation at its Cannes premiere.
The celebrated director attended a special screening of a newly restored version of the film on Tuesday in Cannes, France, revisiting the project that transformed his career and became one of the most influential fantasy films of modern cinema.
Del Toro recalled arriving at Cannes in 2006 feeling anxious about the movie’s reception after facing numerous production challenges and financial setbacks during filming.
“It was one of the few times in my life that I made a choice,” del Toro said of deciding to make the film despite difficulties securing financing. “Everything that could go wrong went wrong.”
Set in 1944 during Francoist Spain, “Pan’s Labyrinth” follows young Ofelia, played by Ivana Baquero, as she escapes into a dark fantasy world while living under the control of her cruel fascist stepfather, Captain Vidal, portrayed by Sergi López.
The visually stunning film became renowned for its haunting creatures, including the faun and the terrifying Pale Man, as well as its handcrafted practical effects and imaginative production design.
Del Toro credited the film as a major turning point in his career, noting that before “Pan’s Labyrinth,” he was primarily known for directing Hellboy and Blade II. He later went on to direct the Oscar-winning The Shape of Water and his upcoming adaptation of Frankenstein.
The director also reflected on the growing role of artificial intelligence and virtual filmmaking in Hollywood, emphasizing his preference for practical craftsmanship and real-world artistry.
“I think people intrinsically know when you’ve made an effort,” del Toro said. “The more the design is something you haven’t seen before, that was made by hand, you can sense it.”
Baquero, who was only 11 years old during filming and is now 31, also attended the anniversary screening. She described how the movie has evolved in meaning for her over the years.
“I can enjoy more and more as time goes by,” she said. “I almost don’t see myself as that girl anymore.”
Following its original Cannes debut, “Pan’s Labyrinth” earned widespread critical acclaim and received six Academy Award nominations, ultimately winning three Oscars for cinematography, art direction, and makeup.
The restored edition of the film is set to return to theaters on Oct. 9 through a rerelease by Cineverse and Fathom Entertainment, introducing the modern fantasy classic to a new generation of audiences.