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The Orphanage (El Orfanato) is a Mexican psychological Horror/ Thriller Directed by Juan Antonio Bayona. Let me begin by saying I personally adore Spanish/Mexican Horror, I believe they do the whole psychological aspect as well as the best Asian cinema, but with a little fairy tale flare added to the mix. So when I heard about this film at Fright Fest I was literally chomping at the bit to see it. I know there have been a lot of comparisons with Pan’s Labyrinth due to Guillermo del Toro’s name being tied in with this film but I must say this is all together a different beast but as thrilling a ride as the other title.

Laura once an orphan is delighted to find her childhood home for sale, she instantly decides to embark on running the orphanage but this time for handicapped children. Upon moving into the old house her son Simon begins to communicate with an invisible friend. When Simon goes missing without a trace, Laura goes on a frantic search to find him, but is he indeed missing or are children just playing games.

I really loved this film, anything that can have me jumping in my seat and close to tears the next minute is a winner in my book. There are so many twists and turns in the plot, the film looks sumptuous and there are many thrills and jumps on the way to the films dramatic conclusion. I will say I did guess the end about half way in but I won’t reveal any details. If you want a thoroughly good psychological horror this is the film for you.

Visit The Orphanage they are all waiting to play with you.

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