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December 23, 2025
The Devil’s Backbone review
Executed with trademark technical flair and empathy, this part-horror, part-fairytale set in a haunted orphanage from 2001 is one of the director’s best

TL;DR
- The article reviews Guillermo del Toro's 2001 film, calling it one of his best.
- The film is described as a blend of horror and fairytale, set in a haunted orphanage.
- It takes place in a Spanish boys' orphanage in the 1930s during the civil war.
- The story follows a newcomer, Carlos, who encounters supernatural and human threats.
- Key elements include an unexploded bomb, bullies, ghosts, and menacing adults.
- The film combines political themes with supernatural horror, featuring atmospheric dread.
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