David Bowie’s Goblin King is joined by Jim Henson’s goblins in a new piece of fan art that looks back on the 1986 fantasy movie Labyrinth. The Henson-directed and George Lucas-produced musical fantasy starred the iconic singer alongside Jennifer Connelly and has become a cult classic in the decades following its initial release. In Labyrinth, Connelly stars as Sarah, a young girl who accidentally wishes for her infant half-brother to be taken to a fantastical world ruled by Bowie’s Goblin King Jareth and embarks on a quest to save the child.
In a new Instagram post created by artbymejcs, Bowie is joined by a number of his creature underlings from Labyrinth in a piece of artwork inspired by the film.
In the artwork above, Bowie’s iconic Goblin King Jareth is surrounded by a number of goblins designed by Henson that can be seen throughout Labyrinth. The goblins featured include the group who overhear Sarah’s wish in the film’s opening act, as well as a number of goblin army soldiers who can be seen in the Goblin City towards the climax.
The Magic Legacy Of Labyrinth
While Labyrinth has become a fondly remembered cult classic, it did face some difficulty with critics and audiences upon its release. The film underperformed during its initial release as it fell short of earning its $25 million budget in its domestic release by half, while the further total gross from global markets was unable to allow the production to break even, resulting in Labyrinth becoming a box office bomb. Furthermore, critics at the time found themselves divided on what to make of the fantasy film, resulting in a polarizing response.
Despite this, however, Labyrinth has been embraced by multiple generations, who found themselves invested in the story of Sarah’s journey and conflict with the Goblin King through its home release and broadcasts on television. As such, not only has the film received a critical reevaluation and warmer reception, but Labyrinth‘s continued legacy has also led to rumors and reports surrounding a potential continuation or sequel. In 2020, it was reported that Doctor Strange director Scott Derrickson would helm a Labyrinth sequel, with both Brian Henson and Lisa Henson set to produce, though no update has been given since.
Though the fate of the potential Labyrinth sequel is currently uncertain, the original film continues to enjoy a lasting legacy to this day. Alongside Bowie’s charismatic performance and beloved songs, Henson’s darker but spectacular creature design still holds up. As such, artbymejcs’ latest piece is a magical celebration of the Goblin King and his subjects who earned a place in the heart of generations of fans.
Source: artbymejcs/Instagram
