‘Labyrinth’ is an 80s classic fantasy film that was intended for kids and teenagers growing up back then, but I think it still works in 2024. Sarah (Jennifer Connelly), outraged at having to babysit her little step-brother Toby, wishes he would disappear from her life. To her dismay, her wish comes true, and Toby vanishes from his crib. Once he disappears, she realizes she misses him and regrets ever wanting him gone. Thereafter, Goblin King Jareth (David Bowie) appears to inform Sarah that he has taken the baby to his castle in the Goblin City. She has only 13 hours to navigate his mythical labyrinth, which surrounds the castle, and rescue her brother. If she fails, Jareth will turn Toby into a goblin forever. Sarah races against time, fighting her way through traps laid by Jareth, with the help of her new friends she makes along the way.

‘Labyrinth’ has not aged well and might seem like a low-budget film today. The vivid visuals, CGI, and set design look dated (CGI was still brand new in the ‘80s). However, the meticulous acting, fun script, ingenious costumes, and imaginative atmosphere make it delightful and memorable. This was one of Jennifer Connelly’s earliest films, and I thought she did very well alongside the established David Bowie in his villain role. I thought Connelly was charming in her character, as she usually is in the films I have seen of hers. For the music, Bowie performs most of the original soundtrack. While the music was refreshing overall, there were a few moments when it felt bizarre. I think David Bowie’s singing is an acquired taste, and it’s not the sort of music I typically listen to. For issues, a few scenes dragged occasionally. Some of the original characters, puppets, and imaginative scenes leave you with a smile, recollecting your childhood. One is never too old for something in life, and the power of imagination is boundless.

Would I recommend this? Not a must-watch film, but I think it’s worth watching once. If you like 80s films, this has the proper vibe for that era. Many films have attempted to replicate that 80s vibe, but it’s difficult to pull off. Labyrinth reminded me very much of a few other similar films, including The Wizard of Oz, Alice in Wonderland, The Princess Bride, and The Neverending Story - the latter two also from the mid-80s. They each have different stories, but they share so many qualities.