The use of fantasy as a political means of expression: cinema

Fantasy has long been a captivating genre in cinema, transporting people to otherworldly realms and exploring the depths of imagination. Yet, beneath the surface of fantastical tales lies a powerful tool for conveying profound messages, especially political ones. One such example is Guillermo del Toro’s masterpiece, “Pan’s Labyrinth.”

Set against the backdrop of post-Civil War Spain, “Pan’s labyrinth” seamlessly weaves elements of fantasy with the harsh realities of war and oppression. Through the eyes of its young protagonist, Ofelia, viewers are drawn into a world of mythical creatures and magical quests. However, beneath the seemingly innocent and enchanting symbols, lies a poignant commentary on the horrors of conflict and the resilience of the human spirit.

The fantastical elements in this movie serve as a metaphor for the brutality of war and the struggle for freedom.

The Pale Man, with eyes in the palms of his hands, symbolizes the blindness of those in power to the suffering of others. His eerie presence also embodies themes of overconsumption and temptation, particularly evident in the scene where he sits at a lavish banquet, surrounded by sumptuous food. This imagery speaks to the dangers of succumbing to greed and desire, as the Pale Man's insatiable appetite mirrors humanity's relentless pursuit of material excess. Through this chilling manifestation, del Toro masterfully intertwines the fantastical with the allegorical, urging viewers to confront the darker aspects of human nature and the consequences of unchecked consumption

The faun represents the ambiguous nature of authority, offering both guidance and manipulation to Ofelia as she navigates her perilous journey. This character carries rich political symbolism, reflecting themes of resistance, authority, and the struggle for freedom. As a mythical creature deeply rooted in folklore, the Faun embodies the spirit of rebellion against oppressive forces. His connection to the underground realm of magic represents a refuge from the harsh realities of Francoist Spain, offering a sanctuary where hope and defiance can flourish. Moreover, the Faun's ambiguous nature as both a benevolent guardian and a stern taskmaster reflects the complexities of resistance movements, where moral ambiguity often blurs the lines between heroism and sacrifice.

Del Toro’s use of fantasy allows him to explore complex themes in a way that is both engaging and thought-provoking. In his recent adaptation of "Pinocchio," the fantastical elements serve as a vehicle for conveying profound political messages. Through the whimsical world of fairy tales, del Toro explores themes of social inequality, fascism, and the search for identity. By transforming Pinocchio's journey into a dark and enchanting odyssey, he invites audiences to reflect on contemporary issues and historical parallels. The fantastical elements, such as the magical creatures and surreal landscapes, act as metaphors for real-world struggles and injustices.

This use of fantasy as a medium for political expression echoes throughout cinematic history, with examples like "Game of Thrones" leveraging fantasy to dissect intricate power dynamics. Such narratives demonstrate the enduring potency of fantastical storytelling in shedding light on complex political realities and societal issues.

Mani Lecomte.