Streaming Gems: Labyrinth (1986)
Photo from Empire
From Shane Conto
What makes for a great cult classic? Generally, there is some kind of aspect to the film that sets it apart from mainstream appeal (which is what really drives the box office numbers). There are generally some really fun elements that would bring people back to them over and over again to build up that love for the film. Sometimes they were just too big of a swing and it took time for the audience to come around on the project. All of those elements point towards a fantasy adventure from the 1980s called Labyrinth.
What (or who) is the biggest driving force behind the creativity that embodies this wild fantasy adventure? Jim Henson. This was not your standard Muppet adventure for sure. No Kermit. No Miss Piggy. There were plenty of crazy new creatures to appreciate and get lost in this fantasy world along the way. Henson was the king of puppet work as he crafted one of the most iconic brands in entertainment around his band of puppet pals, The Muppets. But Henson had a whole new world to bring to life this time around to inhabit his new creation. Whether it is Hoggle, Ludo, Sir Didymus, and the many more creations both humanoid or inventive new creatures, Henson crafted something special. Even the production design of this land ruled by the Goblin King is so detailed and lived in. Henson channeled his love of The Wizard of Oz and Alice in Wonderland but did it with his own puppet-filled approach.
Where does much of the cheer come from in Labyrinth? There are plenty of fun and creative musical numbers to keep you coming back. You get a big win too when you can get a music icon like David Bowie to star in your film. The music number “Magic Dance” is just a joyous experience that brings plenty of energy and captures the fantasy wonder of the film. “Underground” sets the stage early to draw you into this strange and wondrous adventure. “As the World Falls Down” is a great ballad that shakes up the tone of the film and brings some variety. Bowie brings his unique energy as a performer to this incredibly 80s sounding musical that just captures plenty of imagination and wonder along the way.
What brings the heart and soul to the film? You can have plenty of fun with big, catchy musical numbers and all the fantasy world building but the cast goes a long way in capturing the audience and drawing them in. Bowie is an absolute delight as the seductive and enigmatic Jareth. The music numbers would not be the same without the talents of Bowie. He also makes such an enticing and fun antagonist along the way. Henson also lucked out by finding a talented young star with plenty of charm in her own right. Jennifer Connelly showed promise in this early role as Sarah. We empathize with her and get behind her mission to save her brother. Then you have the classic Henson crew of Henson himself, Dave Goelz, and Frank Oz (amongst others) who do great puppeteering as well as craft memorable characters through some inspired voice acting.
What makes Labyrinth such a beloved film worth seeking out? The fantasy elements are so charming and thoughtful. Henson crafted a world that you can truly get yourself lost in. The puppetry is matched by the human performers like Bowie and Connelly. This film has some moving elements and universal themes that can draw anyone in. And lastly…that music is just too darn catchy to skip.
Labyrinth is currently streaming on Paramount+.
