Review of Labyrinth (2012) by Dominic C — 22 Feb 2014

Labyrinth wasn't a success in Jim's time, but has gained a cult following and the reasons are obvious. Visually it's one of his strongest films next to the Dark Crystal. However this is perhaps one of the most fun fantasy films of all time.

The story is unique as the idea of the villain kidnapping children only at the heroine's request is fascinating. The characters are all fantastic. Sarah the heroine is a lot better than one might think after the first few minutes.

She is a bit of a spoiled brat, but that's essential for the film. Most teenagers do act like her, and she does legitmately care about her brother. Some characters might only try to rescue him to avoid getting into trouble, but Sarah is given chances to stay in the Labyrinth and still decides she must save Toby.

Jareth the Goblin King is a great villain performed perfectly by David Bowie. You can call him whatever you want. Split personality, dwarfitis, tyrant, but what makes him interesting is his good side.

He claims he wants to turn Toby into a goblin, but in the scenes where he's in the castle, the baby is always sitting on his lap and he's singing to Toby, or throwing him up in the air and catching him.

His relationship with Sarah has gotten lots of recognition, because of his complexity and whether or not he trully loves her or if it's merely because she claimed he loved her. The Muppet characters as always are great fun particularly Sir Didymus a fox knight and Hoggle a dwarf who has to serve Jareth, but wnats to be friends with Sarah.

The songs are catchy and stand out from other Henson movies. The movie is often quite fun with its minor characters such as a head-throwing-fire-gang. So does this film deserve its cult status? YES, and I'm certainly one its many fans.

If you haven't seen it, see it. You most likely will find out what the fuss is all about.