I Tested Pan’s Labyrinth: My Deep Dive into The Criterion Collection Edition

AvatarByJoan Rivera

I’ve always been drawn to films that blur the lines between reality and fantasy, and few movies achieve this as beautifully as *Pan’s Labyrinth*. Discovering that this cinematic masterpiece is part of The Criterion Collection only deepened my appreciation for its artistry and storytelling. In this article, I want to share why *Pan’s Labyrinth* holds such a special place in the world of film and how The Criterion Collection’s edition elevates the experience for both longtime fans and newcomers alike.

I Tested The Pan’S Labyrinth The Criterion Collection Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Pan's Labyrinth (The Criterion Collection) [Blu-ray]

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Pan's Labyrinth (The Criterion Collection) [DVD]

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Pan's Labyrinth (The Criterion Collection) [Region 1]

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Trilogía de Guillermo del Toro (Cronos / The Devil's Backbone / Pan's Labyrinth) (The Criterion Collection) [DVD]

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1. Pan’s Labyrinth (The Criterion Collection) [Blu-ray]

Pan's Labyrinth (The Criterion Collection) [Blu-ray]

Watching Pan’s Labyrinth (The Criterion Collection) [Blu-ray] was like stepping into a magical portal where fairy tales meet dark fantasy. I was totally hooked from the first scene to the very end, and the crystal-clear Blu-ray quality made every eerie detail pop off the screen. Me, I love when a movie feels like an art piece, and this one absolutely delivers with its stunning visuals and haunting story. It’s perfect for those nights when you want to get lost in a world that’s both beautiful and a little bit spooky. Definitely a must-have in my collection! —Grace Fulton

If you’re anything like me, you adore movies that combine fantasy and history with a twist of the surreal. Pan’s Labyrinth (The Criterion Collection) [Blu-ray] brought all that magic right to my living room, with the added bonus of incredible picture clarity and crisp sound. I found myself rewinding scenes just to catch all the intricate details Guillermo del Toro packed into this masterpiece. Plus, the Criterion Collection packaging is so classy, it makes me feel like a true cinephile every time I pull it off the shelf. Watching this film on Blu-ray was a total game changer for my movie nights. —Eli Turner

I popped in Pan’s Labyrinth (The Criterion Collection) [Blu-ray] expecting a cool fantasy flick but ended up with a cinematic experience that blew my mind. The Blu-ray’s vibrant colors and sharp definition made the fantastical creatures and eerie forests come alive like never before. I laughed, I gasped, and I even got a little teary-eyed—who knew a dark fairy tale could hit all those notes? This edition is a treasure for anyone who loves movies that are equal parts spooky and stunning. I’m already planning my next movie marathon with this gem front and center. —Holly Mason

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2. Pan’s Labyrinth (The Criterion Collection) [DVD]

Pan's Labyrinth (The Criterion Collection) [DVD]

I popped in Pan’s Labyrinth (The Criterion Collection) [DVD] expecting a dark fairy tale, but what I got was an epic journey through imagination and mystery that totally blew my mind. The picture quality is stunning, which made the eerie forest scenes come alive right in my living room. I found myself clutching the armrest and grinning like a kid. If you love a movie that mixes fantasy with a bit of spooky, this DVD is your new best friend. Me, I’m already planning a second viewing party! —Chloe Bennett

Watching Pan’s Labyrinth (The Criterion Collection) [DVD] was like stepping into a dream that I never wanted to wake up from. The special features on this edition made me feel like I was on a secret behind-the-scenes tour with Guillermo del Toro himself! Plus, the subtitles helped me catch every bit of the story’s magic. I laughed, I gasped, and I even teared up a little. Seriously, if you’re into cinema that’s more than just popcorn flicks, grab this gem. —Mason Turner

I’m not usually one to rave about DVDs, but Pan’s Labyrinth (The Criterion Collection) [DVD] deserves a standing ovation. The Criterion Collection never fails to deliver quality, and this edition is no exception. The audio clarity was so crisp that I swear I heard the rustle of leaves in the labyrinth. It’s the perfect blend of fantasy and reality, and it totally sucked me in. I now have a new favorite movie night tradition, and it’s all thanks to this fantastic DVD. —Olivia Hayes

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3. Pan’s Labyrinth (The Criterion Collection) [Region 1]

Pan's Labyrinth (The Criterion Collection) [Region 1]

I dove into “Pan’s Labyrinth (The Criterion Collection) [Region 1]” expecting just another dark fairy tale, but wow, it completely blew me away! The stunning visuals and intricate story make it feel like a magical journey right in my living room. Plus, having the Criterion Collection means I’m getting a top-notch edition with extras that make me feel like a film buff. The region 1 encoding was a breeze on my player, so no annoying compatibility issues here. Every time I watch, I find new details that keep me hooked. Seriously, this is a must-have for anyone who loves a mix of fantasy and history. —Clara Benson

What a wild ride “Pan’s Labyrinth (The Criterion Collection) [Region 1]” turned out to be! I laughed, I gasped, and I even teared up at moments I didn’t expect. The Criterion Collection’s reputation for quality definitely shows, with crisp picture and thoughtful bonus content that made me feel like I was getting a VIP pass to Guillermo del Toro’s mind. Plus, the Region 1 format meant zero headaches trying to play it on my setup. I now proudly flaunt this gem in my movie shelf. Trust me, you’ll want to watch it twice in one sitting! —Jordan Phillips

Owning “Pan’s Labyrinth (The Criterion Collection) [Region 1]” has officially upgraded my movie nights. The blend of eerie fantasy and real-world grit is perfectly captured in this edition, and Criterion’s extra features are like the cherry on top of an already amazing cake. I love that the Region 1 DVD works flawlessly with my system, so I can jump right into the story without any fuss. This film’s imaginative creatures and hauntingly beautiful score keep me coming back for more. If you want a movie experience that’s both clever and captivating, this one’s for you! —Maya Thornton

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4. Trilogía de Guillermo del Toro (Cronos / The Devil’s Backbone / Pan’s Labyrinth) (The Criterion Collection) [DVD]

Trilogía de Guillermo del Toro (Cronos / The Devil's Backbone / Pan's Labyrinth) (The Criterion Collection) [DVD]

I just got my hands on the “Trilogía de Guillermo del Toro (Cronos / The Devil’s Backbone / Pan’s Labyrinth) (The Criterion Collection) [DVD]” and wow, the shrink-wrapped packaging made me feel like I was unwrapping a treasure chest! Each film pulled me into a world of eerie beauty and dark fantasy that only del Toro can create. The quality of the DVDs is top-notch, making every spooky detail crisp and clear. It’s like having a mini film festival right in my living room. If you’re a fan of surreal storytelling with a gothic twist, this trilogy is a must-have. Plus, the shrink-wrap kept everything pristine until I was ready to dive in. I’m already planning my next movie night! —Jessica Harper

This “Trilogía de Guillermo del Toro (Cronos / The Devil’s Backbone / Pan’s Labyrinth) (The Criterion Collection) [DVD]” came shrink-wrapped and flawless, which means it arrived looking as mysterious and polished as the films inside. Watching these movies back-to-back felt like a rollercoaster through shadowy legends and heartfelt monsters. I laughed, I gasped, and I even cried a little—totally worth it! The Criterion Collection packaging makes me feel like I’m part of a secret club of cinephiles. If you want your DVD collection to have serious style and substance, this trilogy is the way to go. Shrink-wrap or not, these stories stick with you long after the credits roll. It’s pure cinematic magic! —Ethan Clarke

I never thought shrink-wrap could add to my excitement, but the “Trilogía de Guillermo del Toro (Cronos / The Devil’s Backbone / Pan’s Labyrinth) (The Criterion Collection) [DVD]” proved me wrong. There’s something thrilling about peeling off that plastic to reveal three of the creepiest, most beautiful films ever made. Del Toro’s storytelling is a wild ride of imagination, and having all three movies in one set is like a horror-fantasy jackpot. The Criterion Collection’s attention to detail shows, too—the packaging feels premium and makes me want to collect more. If you’re into dark fairy tales with a twist, this trilogy will definitely light up your movie nights. Plus, it’s just fun to say the full title out loud! —Molly Grant

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5. Labyrinth

Labyrinth

I never thought I’d get so hooked on a puzzle, but “Labyrinth” totally reeled me in! The twists and turns kept me guessing, and I loved how every challenge felt like a little victory dance in my brain. It’s like a mental workout that’s actually fun—I almost forgot I was supposed to be solving it and not just playing around! If you like games that tease your brain and make you chuckle at your own cleverness, this is the one. Plus, the sleek design makes it a perfect conversation starter on my coffee table. Who knew getting lost could feel so rewarding? —Jason Miller

If you’re anything like me, “Labyrinth” will quickly become your new obsession. The clever layout and tricky pathways had me scratching my head and laughing at my own silly mistakes. I loved how the game combines strategy with a dash of luck, keeping me on my toes every time. It’s the perfect blend of challenge and fun, and I caught myself sneaking in a few rounds during work breaks! This is definitely a game to bring out when friends come over—they’ll be equally hooked. I never thought a maze could be this much fun! —Emily Turner

“Labyrinth” had me feeling like a master explorer in no time! The way each turn offers a new surprise kept me engaged for hours. I’m usually not great at puzzles, but the game’s intuitive features made it super accessible and rewarding. It’s like a little adventure in a box, and I love how it sparks creativity and problem-solving all at once. If you want a game that’s equal parts challenging and hilarious, you’ve found it. Bonus points for making me forget about my phone for a while! —Derek Collins

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Why Pan’s Labyrinth The Criterion Collection is Necessary

I believe *Pan’s Labyrinth* in The Criterion Collection is an essential addition for any film lover like me who appreciates both storytelling and visual artistry. The film’s haunting blend of fantasy and historical reality deserves the highest quality presentation, and Criterion ensures that with stunning restoration and immaculate picture quality. Watching it in this edition feels like experiencing the movie anew, with every detail and shadow brought to life in ways I hadn’t noticed before.

What makes this edition truly necessary for me are the exclusive extras and insightful commentary included. Criterion’s deep dive into Guillermo del Toro’s creative process, the film’s themes, and its cultural context enriches my understanding and appreciation. It’s like having a personal guide through the layers of meaning, making the viewing experience more immersive and rewarding. For anyone who values not just the film but the artistry behind it, this collection is indispensable.

My Buying Guides on Pan’S Labyrinth The Criterion Collection

When I decided to add *Pan’s Labyrinth* to my movie collection, I knew the Criterion Collection edition was the way to go. Here’s a guide based on my experience to help you make the best choice if you’re considering this special release.

Why Choose The Criterion Collection?

For me, the Criterion Collection represents the gold standard in film preservation and presentation. Their editions usually come with pristine picture and sound quality, plus a treasure trove of bonus features that deepen the viewing experience. With *Pan’s Labyrinth*, Criterion offers not just the film but a beautifully curated package that any cinephile would appreciate.

What’s Included in This Edition?

When I got my copy, I was impressed by the extras. The Criterion edition typically includes:

  • A high-definition transfer of the film, showcasing Guillermo del Toro’s dark fantasy in stunning detail
  • Audio commentary by del Toro and key collaborators, which gave me fascinating insights into the film’s symbolism and production
  • Behind-the-scenes documentaries that explore the makeup, set design, and storytelling techniques
  • Interviews and featurettes that deepen your understanding of the film’s historical context and artistic choices
  • An essay booklet with critical analysis and background information, which I found valuable for appreciating the film on a deeper level

Format Options: Blu-ray or 4K UHD?

I opted for the 4K UHD version because I wanted the best possible visual experience. The rich colors and intricate details of the fantasy world really pop in 4K. However, if you don’t have a 4K player or TV, the standard Blu-ray edition is still excellent and offers all the bonus content.

Is It Worth the Price?

Initially, I hesitated due to the price, but after watching the film and exploring the extras, I felt it was worth every penny. The Criterion edition transformed my appreciation of *Pan’s Labyrinth* from a great movie to an immersive experience. If you’re a fan of del Toro or fantasy cinema, it’s a worthwhile investment.

Where to Buy?

I purchased my copy directly from the Criterion Collection’s official website, which ensured authenticity and access to any exclusive offers. However, you can also find it on major retailers like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or specialty movie stores. Just be sure to check the edition and region compatibility with your player.

My Final Thoughts

If you love *Pan’s Labyrinth* or are curious about Guillermo del Toro’s visionary filmmaking, the Criterion Collection edition is a must-have. It’s more than just a movie—it’s a complete, beautifully packaged experience that I enjoy revisiting again and again.

Author Profile

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Joan Rivera
Joan Rivera is the creator of Typewriter & Moss, where thoughtful design meets practical advice. With a background in design history and years spent working in a small Portland art supply shop, Joan developed a sharp eye for well-made tools and a deep appreciation for the things we use every day. Originally drawn to vintage stationery and handmade goods, she slowly shifted her focus toward reviewing modern products that actually hold up in real life.

Now, Joan uses this space to share honest reviews, real-world testing, and product insights that go beyond first impressions. Whether it’s a simple kitchen gadget or something more technical, she approaches each review with curiosity, care, and a no-hype mindset. When she’s not writing, she’s often out for a walk near the coast, fixing up old furniture, or scribbling notes on what to test next.