One of the most charmingly eccentric family films ever made is weaving its magic once again. Jim Henson's 1986 fantasy adventure 'Labyrinth' is returning to UK cinemas from 9 January, marking its 40th anniversary with a new generation of viewers. The film, a unique blend of human actors and iconic puppetry, is celebrated for its whimsical storytelling and an unforgettable performance by the late music legend David Bowie.
A Beguiling Blend of Puppets and Rock Royalty
The film's enduring appeal lies in its singular creative vision. Directed by Henson and with a screenplay by Monty Python's Terry Jones, Labyrinth creates a world where palpable puppetry meets rock star grandeur. David Bowie commands the screen as Jareth, the Goblin King, a role he tackles with total commitment and a palpable sense of fun. He looms over the film's fantastical creatures much as he might have done on an episode of The Muppet Show.
Opposite him is a young Jennifer Connelly, playing Sarah, a teenager frustrated with babysitting her baby half-brother, Toby. In a moment of pique, Sarah wishes the goblins would take the child away—a wish that is shockingly granted. To rescue Toby, she must navigate a vast, ever-shifting labyrinth to reach Jareth's castle at its centre.
Influences and a Lasting Legacy
The film's narrative proudly wears its influences on its sleeve. Sarah's journey is a clear nod to Lewis Carroll's 'Alice in Wonderland', featuring encounters with verbose, riddling creatures and literal falls down holes. The spirit of Maurice Sendak's 'Where the Wild Things Are' is also present, with the book itself appearing in an early scene. A stunning, mind-bending sequence towards the film's climax draws directly from the impossible architecture of M.C. Escher.
Watched today, Labyrinth also feels curiously prescient. With its goblins, mysterious owls, and a character mistakenly called "Hogwart," the film can be seen as a subconscious precursor to a certain globally successful wizarding franchise. Its analogue-era pacing, where the action ambles and the humour unfolds casually, offers a refreshing contrast to the hyperactive energy of modern animated features.
A Timeless Whimsy Returns to the Big Screen
This revival offers a chance to appreciate Labyrinth not just as a nostalgic artefact, but as a piece of utterly unique cinema. It stands alongside other beloved 80s fantasies like The Princess Bride (1987) but retains its own distinct, beguiling identity. The combination of Henson's practical creature effects, Jones's witty dialogue, and Bowie's magnetic, otherworldly performance creates a magic that is both handmade and timeless.
The film will be available in UK cinemas from 9 January 2024, with Australian screenings following on 22 January. For fans and newcomers alike, this anniversary is the perfect opportunity to get lost in its maze once more.
