One of the most charmingly eccentric family films ever made is set to weave its magic on the big screen once again. To mark its 40th anniversary, Jim Henson's beloved 1986 fantasy adventure Labyrinth is returning to cinemas, offering a new generation the chance to experience its unique blend of puppetry, whimsy, and rock 'n' roll royalty.
A Quest Through a Hensonian Wonderland
The film stars a young Jennifer Connelly as Sarah, a teenager frustrated at having to babysit her baby half-brother, Toby. In a moment of pique, influenced by a fairy tale she's reading, Sarah rashly wishes for goblins to take the child away. To her horror, her wish is granted by Jareth, the Goblin King, portrayed with iconic flair by the late music legend David Bowie.
Sarah is then given thirteen hours to navigate a vast, ever-changing labyrinth to rescue Toby from Jareth's castle. Her journey is a series of Alice in Wonderland-style encounters with a host of memorable creatures, all brought to life through the unmistakable puppet artistry of Jim Henson's workshop.
Bowie's Legendary Performance and Analogue-Era Storytelling
David Bowie's performance as the spiky-haired, tight-wearing Goblin King is a cornerstone of the film's enduring appeal. He tackles the wonderfully wacky role with total commitment and a palpable sense of fun, towering over the puppet cast much as he might have on an episode of The Muppet Show.
Watched today, Labyrinth stands as a product of its analogue era. The pacing often ambles, allowing for character and humour rather than hyperactive action. The dialogue, penned by Monty Python's Terry Jones, is casually constructed and frequently very funny. The film draws clear inspiration from Lewis Carroll, while also tipping its hat to Maurice Sendak's Where the Wild Things Are and even M.C. Escher in its stunning, hallucinatory finale.
A Lasting Legacy and Cinematic Return
While it might have paved the way for later fantasy comedies like The Princess Bride, Labyrinth remains a singular piece of filmmaking. Its legacy is fascinating; sharp-eyed fans might even spot early, subconscious hints of a certain wizarding world in the film's goblins, mysterious owls, and a character mistakenly called "Hogwart".
This cinematic revival offers the perfect opportunity to rediscover its beguiling magic. Labyrinth returns to UK cinemas from 9 January, followed by a release in Australian cinemas from 22 January. It's a chance to see Bowie's iconic performance and Henson's creative genius on the big screen, exactly where such a fantastical adventure belongs.
