The Orphanage

I just saw The Orphanage (El Orfanato) and all I can say is "Wow!". Presented by Guillermo Del Toro and Directed by Barcelona native J.A. Bayona, this psychological thriller is a superb modern ghost story full of twists and surprises and is intelligent from start to finish.

As one might expect from any film associated with Del Toro, the cinematography is astounding. The film is wonderful to look at and is a visual marvel of atmosphere and tension. Bayona was clearly inspired by Del Toro's earlier film about a haunted orphanage, "The Devil's Backbone" and directly references Stephen Spielberg's "Poltergeist" but brings enough originality and style to make The Orphanage feel like nothing I've seen before.

It's showing in limited release, so take time to see it if it's playing near you.