Rediscovering Labyrinth: 13 Things to Notice

Screencap from TriStar Pictures

Those Muppets!

Similar to the details in Sarah’s bedroom, it’s impossible not to take in the minute sculpting on the various goblins enlarged on the big screen. Preceding the anniversary screenings is a video documenting Jim Henson’s legacy and puppetry skills. A trip to the Center for Puppetry Arts in Atlanta has Cheryl Henson herself looking at the various muppets from this film, all of whom were saved and are on display. Other than inspiring me to plan a trip to Atlanta, the video shows the amazing artists Henson employed. Hoggle has individual wrinkles sculpted onto his face. The various goblins all have unique features that imbue them with human-like personalities.

The most technologically complex puppet, to my eyes, is Sir Didymus. Like Ludo, we see him in full-figure mode and his movements are remarkably fluid for 1986. You should also note how the muppeteers hide the strings with his costume, giving him fringe that is tied around the sticks. Though the CGI here leaves a lot to be desired, the muppet skills give everything a tangible, tactile feel. Jennifer Connelly is truly acting with living figures, if only because of the muppeteer’s skills.

Next: CGI: Not Quite Next Gen