David Bowie was a world-renowned musician, actor, and fashion icon. He left an indelible mark on pop culture with his unique style and innovative music. But one of his lesser-known but equally iconic contributions was his role in the 1986 fantasy film, Labyrinth. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Labyrinth and explore why it remains a beloved classic today.
Enter the Labyrinth
The movie begins innocently enough – a teenage girl named Sarah (played by Jennifer Connelly), dreams of escaping her mundane life. She gets more than she bargained for when the Goblin King, played by Bowie, abducts her infant brother Toby. Sarah enters a magical world, one where danger and adventure abound.
The world of Labyrinth is a fantastical place filled with interesting characters and quirky scenarios. The film’s director, Jim Henson, was known for creating imaginative puppets and creatures. He worked on such shows as Sesame Street and The Muppet Show, and brought his unique puppetry skills to Labyrinth. Each set and creature in Labyrinth is unique and has its own personality.
Dancing in the Dark
Of course, with Bowie involved, music plays a significant part in the movie. He not only acted in the film but also wrote and performed all but one of the soundtrack’s songs. The music of Labyrinth spans several genres, from rock to new wave to ballads.
Bowie’s songs are some of the standout tracks in the movie. “Underground,” the opening song, sets the tone for the film and gets the viewer in the mood for adventure. “Magic Dance,” performed by Bowie, is a playful, upbeat tune that makes you want to get up and dance. “As The World Falls Down,” also performed by Bowie, is a haunting ballad that becomes central to the film’s plot.
The Goblins
The Goblins are an essential part of Labyrinth’s world. They are mischievous, playful, and sometimes downright terrifying. Henson’s puppets bring these creatures to life, and they have become iconic in their own right.
The Goblins add a unique flavor to the film and reflect Bowie’s creativity and artistic vision. As the Goblin King, Bowie melds his own style with Henson’s puppets to create a unique and memorable character.
Why Labyrinth is Still Relevant Today
Labyrinth was a critical and commercial success when it first released, but it has since achieved cult status. Fans marvel at the film’s imaginative world, its off-the-wall characters, and of course, Bowie’s performance. But aside from the nostalgia factor, what makes Labyrinth relevant today?
One reason could be the film’s message. At its core, Labyrinth is a coming-of-age story. Sarah must face her fears, overcome obstacles, and ultimately grow up. The film also explores the power of imagination and the idea that one’s dreams can become reality.
Another reason could be the movie’s visuals and puppetry. Despite being over thirty years old, Labyrinth’s unique aesthetic and practical effects still hold up today. Younger audiences can appreciate the artistry and creativity of the film, and older viewers can relive their childhood memories of watching it.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Labyrinth is a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences today. It’s a testament to David Bowie’s creativity and artistry, as well as Jim Henson’s vision and puppetry skills. The film’s magical world, quirky characters, excellent music, and underlying themes make it a must-watch movie for anyone who loves fantasy, adventure, and good old-fashioned storytelling.
So, what are you waiting for? Enter the Labyrinth and embark on a fantastic journey of your own!
