Labyrinth, the 1986 fantasy film directed by Jim Henson, has become a cult classic 40 years after its release. The film, which features a mix of human actors and puppets, tells the story of a stroppy teen Sarah (played by Jennifer Connelly) on a quest to rescue her baby half-brother from the clutches of Jareth (David Bowie), the nefarious goblin king. Despite its initial box office failure and mixed reviews, Labyrinth has since become a beloved film, with a cult following and a lasting impact on popular culture.
In this oral history, we delve into the making of Labyrinth, speaking to the cast and crew who reflect on the film's production, its reception at the time, and its enduring legacy. From the creative vision of Henson and the quirky puppets designed by Creature Shop to the challenging performances of the actors and puppeteers, Labyrinth was a unique and ambitious project.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Labyrinth is the casting process. Auditions for the lead role of Sarah were held in England and the US, with a diverse range of actors trying out, including Jane Krakowski, Sarah Jessica Parker, Marisa Tomei, Yasmine Bleeth, and Laura Dern. The role ultimately went to Jennifer Connelly, who was just 14 years old at the time. Connelly's performance as Sarah, a stroppy teen navigating a maze filled with goblins, was a breakthrough, and her chemistry with Bowie as Jareth was electric.
The film's production was a challenging but rewarding experience. Henson's vision for the film was ambitious, and the crew had to come up with inventive ways to keep the one-year-old Toby, Sarah's brother, engaged during filming. The use of animatronic creatures and puppets, such as the Worm, Firey 2, and the Junk Lady, added to the film's unique visual style. The performances of the actors and puppeteers, including Helena Bonham Carter, Brian Henson, and Karen Prell, were a testament to their dedication and skill.
One of the most memorable moments of the film's production was the challenge of filming the scene where Sarah falls down the tunnel of helping hands. The scene required puppeteers to perform while wearing latex rubber gloves, which made it awkward and challenging. Despite the difficulties, the crew worked together to bring Henson's vision to life, and the result was a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film.
Labyrinth's reception at the time was mixed, with critics giving it a range of reviews. However, the film has since become a cult classic, with a dedicated following and a lasting impact on popular culture. The film's unique blend of fantasy, coming-of-age story, and quirky puppets has resonated with audiences of all ages, especially girls, who see it as a journey of self-discovery and transition from girlhood to womanhood.
In conclusion, Labyrinth is a testament to the power of imagination and creativity in filmmaking. Despite its initial box office failure and mixed reviews, the film has become a cult classic, with a dedicated following and a lasting impact on popular culture. The film's unique blend of fantasy, coming-of-age story, and quirky puppets has resonated with audiences of all ages, and its enduring legacy continues to inspire and entertain.
