The Special Effects Behind Jim Henson’s Labyrinth

Jim Henson was ahead of his time! Watch this special effects featurette behind the scenes of the movie Labyrinth.

There has never been another like Jim Henson. Whether you are a Sesame Street fan, a Muppets fan, a fan of his movies, or all of the above, you know as well as I do that Henson was one of a kind. His creations and visions are so singular that they continue entertaining all ages long after his death. There was no more singular Jim Henson experience than the 1986 movie Labyrinth.

So many key elements turned Labyrinth into the cult classic it is today. Aside from the casting of David Bowie (music god!) and Jennifer Connelly, the movie consisted of some of the best puppetry work and special effects of the time. If the movie was redone today, it would most certainly include computer sequencing and a giant sound stage covered in green screens; but those options weren’t available back then. The creative team had to get, well, creative to produce the magical experience that the script/story promised.

This behind-the-scenes feature is a look back at the remarkably creative ways that Jim Henson and his team created the world of Labyrinth, including the magic of Jareth the Goblin King (Bowie). It’s a fascinating featurette and will leave you even more appreciative of the film… and if you haven’t seen the movie yet, what are you waiting for?!

• image source