Labyrinth - Film Review

Post

Subscribe

Labyrinth is a 1986 fantasy film directed by Jim Henson, co-written by Terry Jones, and starring David Bowie and Jennifer Connelly. The film is a beloved classic among many fantasy fans and has become a cultural touchstone over the years. Its blend of live-action and puppetry, as well as its imaginative world-building and iconic characters, have helped to cement its place in popular culture.

The story begins when Sarah (Connelly) is left in charge of her baby brother Toby (Toby Froud). Frustrated with the responsibility, she wishes under her breath for him to be taken away by the Goblin King (Bowie). Much to her surprise, her wish comes true, and Toby is taken into the labyrinth, a vast and maze-like world filled with strange creatures, enchanting landscapes, and challenging puzzles.

Realizing her mistake and feeling responsible for Toby's predicament, Sarah sets out to rescue her brother. She enters the labyrinth and meets a variety of eccentric and often whimsical characters, including Hoggle (Shari Weiser and voiced by Brian Henson), a grumpy but ultimately kind-hearted dwarf; Ludo (Rob Mills and voiced by Ron Mueck), a gentle giant with a magical connection to rocks and nature; and Sir Didymus (Dave Goelz and David Barclay and voiced by David Shaughnessy), a chivalrous fox-terrier knight.

As Sarah navigates the labyrinth's twists and turns, she faces various trials and obstacles set by the Goblin King, who attempts to distract and thwart her progress. The Goblin King's motives and connection to Sarah become more apparent as the story unfolds.

One of the most striking things about Labyrinth is its visual style. The film is a feast for the eyes, with its intricate sets, whimsical costumes, and fantastic creatures. The film's use of puppetry, in particular, is remarkable. Jim Henson and his team of puppeteers created a variety of memorable characters, from Hoggle, the grumpy dwarf who becomes Sarah's ally, to Ludo, the gentle giant who helps them on their quest.



Another key aspect of Labyrinth is its music. David Bowie's soundtrack for the film is iconic, with songs like Magic Dance and As the World Falls Down becoming fan favourites over the years. Bowie also plays the goblin king Jareth, and his performance is one of the highlights of the film. Jareth is a complex character, alternately menacing and charming, and Bowie's portrayal of him is both captivating and unsettling.

But Labyrinth is more than just a pretty film with great music. At its core, it's a coming-of-age story about a young woman who must navigate a series of challenges in order to find herself. Sarah starts the film as a petulant teenager who resents her stepmother and feels like the world is against her. But as she makes her way through the labyrinth, she learns important lessons about responsibility, friendship, and self-acceptance.

One of the most memorable scenes in the film is the "The Helping Hands" sequence, in which Sarah finds herself in a 'tunnel' filled with disembodied hands that help her climb to the top, or not - her choice. This scene is a metaphor for Sarah's journey through the labyrinth, as she learns to rely on others and ask for help when she needs it. The film also explores themes of power and control, as Jareth tries to manipulate Sarah into staying in the labyrinth with him. Ultimately, though, Sarah realises that she has the power to make her own choices and determine her own fate.

The film has become a cult classic over the years, with fans praising its imaginative world-building, inventive creatures, and memorable characters. The film's use of practical effects and puppetry has also helped it to stand the test of time, as it feels more tactile and real than many modern fantasy films that rely heavily on CGI. Labyrinth has also inspired a number of spin-offs and adaptations over the years, including comic books, novels, and even a stage musical.

But the film's enduring popularity is also due in large part to its resonance with audiences. At its heart, Labyrinth is a story about growing up and facing the challenges of the world. Sarah's journey through the labyrinth is a metaphor for the challenges that many young people face as they transition into adulthood. The film's message of self-acceptance and personal agency is one that resonates with viewers of all ages, and its colourful characters and imaginative world continue to capture the imaginations of new generations of fans.

One of the reasons why Labyrinth has endured over the years is its ability to appeal to a wide range of audiences. On the surface, it's a children's film, with its whimsical creatures and colourful visuals. But the film's themes and messages are relevant to viewers of all ages. Adults can appreciate the film's exploration of power dynamics and the challenges of growing up, while children can be swept away by the film's magical world and lovable characters.

In addition to its broad appeal, Labyrinth has also had a lasting impact on popular culture. The film's iconic characters, such as Jareth and Hoggle, have become beloved cultural touchstones. Its soundtrack, featuring David Bowie's unforgettable music, has become a fan favourite and is still widely listened to today. The film's influence can also be seen in other works of fantasy and science fiction, which have borrowed from its imaginative world-building and innovative use of puppetry.

The film's enduring popularity has also led to a number of theories and interpretations over the years. Some have suggested that the labyrinth itself is a metaphor for the journey of life, with its twists and turns representing the challenges that we all must face. Others have analysed the film's use of power dynamics, suggesting that Jareth's attempts to control Sarah are a commentary on the patriarchal structures of society.

Despite the many interpretations of the film, one thing is clear: Labyrinth is a classic of the fantasy genre, and its impact can still be felt today. Its innovative use of puppetry and practical effects have influenced a generation of filmmakers, and its imaginative world-building and memorable characters continue to captivate audiences of all ages. Its message of self-acceptance and personal agency is timeless, and its music and visuals remain iconic to this day. Labyrinth is a film that will continue to be cherished and celebrated for generations to come.

%wneverywhere
#film_reviews
#movie_reviews
#movies
#film_tv_reviews
#scifi_films
#science_fiction
#americanclassic