Labyrinth

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Labyrinth

PG

Released Jun 27, 1986

1h 41m

Fantasy

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Popcornmeter

76%

Tomatometer

51 Reviews

86%

Popcornmeter

250,000+ Ratings

Frustrated with babysitting on yet another weekend night, Sarah (Jennifer Connelly), a teenager with an active imagination, summons the Goblins to take her baby stepbrother away. When little Toby actually disappears, Sarah must follow him into a fantastical world to rescue him from the Goblin King (David Bowie). Guarding his castle is the labyrinth itself, a twisted maze of deception, populated with outrageous characters and unknown dangers. To get through it in time to save Toby, Sarah befriends the Goblins, in hopes that their loyalty isn't just another illusion in a place where nothing is as it seems.

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Critics Consensus

While it's arguably more interesting on a visual level, Labyrinth provides further proof of director Jim Henson's boundless imagination.

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Sarah Marshall

Bitch Media

[David Bowie's] labyrinth, frightening as it was, was also a place where you could encounter what confused you and find out who you really were and what you were capable of. It was always worth the trip.

Feb 9, 2021

Full Review

Tasha Robinson

AV Club

While the off-kilter rock songs Bowie wrote and performed for the film are far from his best work, his character performance is gloriously iconic, a perfect blend of predatory, leering rock star and hurt, rejected emo lover.

Rated: B+

Dec 20, 2019

Full Review

Steven D. Greydanus

Decent Films

Plays like The Wizard of Oz or Alice in Wonderland crossed with a middling episode of "The Muppet Show" guest-starring David Bowie … suffers from a distinct lack of charm.

Rated: C

Sep 21, 2007

Full Review

Matt Brunson

Film Frenzy

David Bowie is regal in a role for which Mick Jagger, Sting, and Michael Jackson were also considered.

Rated: 3/4

Feb 17, 2024

Full Review

Josh Winning

Radio Times

Labyrinth is a wholly unique dark fairy tale that enchants from start to finish.

Rated: 4/5

May 6, 2022

Full Review

Toussaint Egan

Polygon

Bursting at the seams with memorable characters, beautiful set pieces, and an inimitable performance by David Bowie.

Oct 22, 2021

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Brooke

Labyrinth is my favorite movie and it was so exciting to see it in a theatre on the big screen with surround sound. I brought my boys and we had so much fun!! Thank you for screening it!

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

03/11/24

Full Review

J W

Incredible movie with amazing puppetry, creativity and magical. Definitely worth seeing it if you haven't. Also great to watch this movie repeatedly. To me it doesn't ever lose its appeal.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

02/13/25

Full Review

LIAM C

Labyrinth (1986) – Movie Review Jim Henson’s Labyrinth is a mesmerizing blend of fantasy, adventure, and puppetry magic that continues to captivate audiences decades after its release. With its imaginative world, iconic performances, and stunning visuals, the film remains a cult classic that transcends generations. At its core, Labyrinth follows 16-year-old Sarah (Jennifer Connelly), who embarks on a perilous journey through an enchanting yet dangerous maze to rescue her baby brother from the enigmatic Goblin King, played to perfection by David Bowie. Bowie’s performance is nothing short of legendary, bringing an eerie charm and rockstar charisma to Jareth, while Connelly delivers a heartfelt and relatable portrayal of a girl navigating the challenges of growing up. Henson’s mastery of puppetry shines throughout, creating a world teeming with quirky and memorable creatures like Hoggle, Ludo, and Sir Didymus, each adding depth and humor to Sarah’s journey. The film’s practical effects, intricate set designs, and Brian Froud’s distinctive aesthetic contribute to an otherworldly atmosphere that feels both whimsical and unsettling. Musically, Bowie’s original songs, including Magic Dance and As the World Falls Down, infuse the film with a unique pop-rock energy that enhances its dreamlike quality. The soundtrack, combined with Trevor Jones’ ethereal score, further immerses the audience in the film’s enchanting and sometimes haunting ambiance. While Labyrinth received mixed reviews upon its initial release, with some critics citing its narrative simplicity, the film has since gained a devoted following. Beneath its fantastical exterior lies a poignant coming-of-age story about self-discovery, responsibility, and the power of imagination. Verdict: With its spellbinding visuals, unforgettable performances, and timeless themes, Labyrinth stands as a true gem of 80s fantasy cinema. Whether you’re revisiting it or experiencing it for the first time, Henson’s visionary tale offers an unforgettable journey into a world where nothing is as it seems. Rating: 4.5/5

Rated 4 out of 5 stars

01/27/25

Full Review

The Story Time K

Un-live-without-able

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

01/02/25

Full Review

Garrett B

Connelly and Bowie deliver in this classic gem of a musical

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

12/31/24

Full Review

Rio A

This is my best childhood movie

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

12/29/24

Full Review

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Jim Henson

Director

David Bowie

Jareth the Goblin King

Jennifer Connelly

Sarah

Toby Froud

Toby

Shelley Thompson

Stepmother

Christopher Malcolm

Father

Labyrinth: Official Clip - David Bowie's Goblin King Entrance

3:27

Labyrinth: Official Clip - Fireys' Chilly Down

3:51

Labyrinth: Official Clip - Within You

3:08

Labyrinth: Official Clip - The Humungous Robot

2:37

Labyrinth: Official Clip - David Bowie's Magic Dance

3:59

Labyrinth: Official Clip - The Goblin Battle

3:28

Labyrinth: Official Clip - Sarah Saves Ludo

2:50

Labyrinth: Official Clip - Sir Didymus and the Bog of Eternal Stench

2:30

Labyrinth: Official Clip - As the World Falls Down

3:37

Labyrinth: Official Clip - The Four Guards

2:58

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Synopsis

Frustrated with babysitting on yet another weekend night, Sarah (Jennifer Connelly), a teenager with an active imagination, summons the Goblins to take her baby stepbrother away. When little Toby actually disappears, Sarah must follow him into a fantastical world to rescue him from the Goblin King (David Bowie). Guarding his castle is the labyrinth itself, a twisted maze of deception, populated with outrageous characters and unknown dangers. To get through it in time to save Toby, Sarah befriends the Goblins, in hopes that their loyalty isn't just another illusion in a place where nothing is as it seems.

Director: Jim Henson
Producer: Eric Rattray
Screenwriter: Dennis Lee, Jim Henson, Terry Jones, Elaine May
Distributor: Columbia Tristar, TriStar Pictures
Production Co: Lucasfilm Ltd., TriStar Pictures
Rating: PG
Genre: Fantasy
Original Language: British English
Release Date (Theaters): Jun 27, 1986, Wide
Rerelease Date (Theaters): Mar 6, 2024
Release Date (Streaming): Oct 9, 2011
Box Office (Gross USA): $12.1M
Runtime: 1h 41m
Sound Mix: Surround

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