In 1973, the dictator Francisco Franco rules Spain with an iron hand, but is aging and the future of the regime is in question. Admiral Carrero Blanco is his natural successor, so the Basque terrorist organization ETA decides that he must die to prevent the continuity of the dictatorship.
Living with her tyrannical stepfather in a new home with her pregnant mother, 10-year-old Ofelia feels alone until she explores a decaying labyrinth guarded by a mysterious faun who claims to know her destiny. If she wishes to return to her real father, Ofelia must complete three terrifying tasks.