Lose yourself in the Goblin King’s Labyrinth this spring! Showing for just three days in late April and early May, you can make your way to the theater and experience Labyrinth like never before.
Being over thirty-years-old, the film was not around for younger fans to experience in the theater like moviegoers who did. The film has a large fanbase and a huge appeal to people of all ages. That being said, this is a wonderful opportunity that will be presented by Fathom Events for those who wished they had watched it when it premiered in theaters.
Having premiered June 27, 1986, Labyrinth starred David Bowie and Jennifer Connelly and became a enchanting hit that is still remarkable to this day.
David played his role as Jareth, the witty, arrogant, and brooding Goblin King that kept Jennifer Connelly’s character, Sarah, in a distressing journey throughout his mystical labyrinth. She desperately wriggles herself out of the grasp of danger in order to make it to the center of the labyrinth and rescue her brother from Jareth before midnight.
Throughout the journey, Sarah befriends unthinkable and lovable creatures that assist her. Labyrinth tells a story of friendship, trust, forgiveness, and persistence.
Labyrinth is artistic, mysterious, and wonderful. Although some claim that is has its moments that are too spooky for children, it was a movie that I watched endlessly as a child. It is a playful and innovative film; filled with moments of quirky humor and thrill.
It hard to call the supporting characters are “puppets” because they are so life-like and full of personality that they feel unmistakably real. The effort that was put into each aspect of the movie is admirable. The movie crew stopped at nothing to make sure that the story they needed to tell was brought to life through their craftsmanship. We are captivated by the beauty behind the ballroom scene and the M.C. Escher inspired staircase scene.
What we see during the film is the tip of the iceberg behind the creation. We know that there are puppets and costumes, but watching behind the scenes reveals the illusions that created the magic of the labyrinth.
Bowie himself composed and featured in many of the film’s soundtracks, including “Within You,” “As the World Falls Down,” and the iconic “Magic Dance.” The music brings life to adventures in the Labyrinth, making it more memorable when singing along to the soundtracks outside of watching the movie. We indulge in Bowie’s tasteful and elegant demeanor, translating into the vocals that add more layers to Jareth’s character. The songs come together as pop rock, electro pop, and ambient soundtracks, bringing a nostalgia of the 80s.
Picking David Bowie as the antagonist of the film was an fascinating, yet eccentric choice. Jim Henson had been considering casting other rock stars for the role, including Sting, Prince, Michael Jackson, and Sir Mick Jagger. Helena Bonham Carter, actress in Sweeney Todd, was considered to play the role of Sarah. When the idea was presented to David, he was immediately interested in the role.
It is difficult to imagine what Labyrinth would have been like if it was casted with those other than Bowie and Connelly. Because both actors contributed to making it a believable reality, the possibilities are unimaginable if Michael Jackson had been the one stealing Sarah’s baby brother. If it were Michael that had been casted, it would have also played a big role in; not only the portrayal of Jareth, but the sound of music as well.
Regardless, it was as though androgynous, sensual glam rock David was meant for the role of Jareth, making him into the sophisticated yet graceful rebel with a predacious sharp gaze that we all love and remember.
The world ached when Bowie passed in 2016, leaving us with his last masterpiece “Blackstar” just two days before his death. It was a situation that was anticipated by Bowie, knowing the condition of his cancer, and it was kept private until after his untimely passing. This album was his swansong for the world, meeting the end of his creative endeavours.
At this point, it was his loved ones, fans of his music, and his acting that were mourning his departure of this world. Although he is no longer with us, much of his influence remains and continues to be one of the most admired rock stars of his time. The late icon continues to be an inspiration for many including myself.
These screenings include exciting introductions featuring the talented Jennifer Connelly and Brian Henson. To purchase tickets, you can order them from the Fathom Events website. One can also purchase these from participating box offices. Screening days include April 29, May 1, and May 2. Be sure to keep those days free for your opportunity to view the Labyrinth! Those participating in the event are encouraged to wear costumes to celebrate the return of the Goblin King.
Alma Tovar
Features Reporter
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