The actress talks to ETonline about making the cult classic and working with both David Bowie and Jim Henson.
In 1986, Jim Henson introduced fans to the fantasy world of Labyrinth. Henson’s take on The Wizard of Oz and Alice in Wonderland, much like The Dark Crystal that preceded it, was a
darker, more twisted film than his typical Muppet-filled projects.
Starring Jennifer Connelly in her fourth film role, David
Bowie, and puppets from Jim Henson’s Creature Shop, Labyrinth told the story of a teenage girl who must complete an otherworldly
maze in order to rescue her younger brother from the clutches of Jareth the Goblin
King.
WATCH: Jennifer Connelly and Paul Bettany Recall the Moment They First Met 15 Years Ago
While Bowie himself, who died on Jan. 10, had many memorable
on-screen personalities, it would be the Goblin King who would become his most
iconic film role thanks to his humor and androgynous, punk-rock style. “He has
just the right look for a creature who's the object of both loathing and secret
desire,” film critic Bruce Bailey wrote at the time.
“[Bowie] was very warm. He was lovely,” Connelly recently
told ETonline, remembering the performer’s presence on set. “He
was just a nice, sweet guy -- cracking jokes and friendly with the crew.”
PHOTOS: Remembering David Bowie in Pics
Ultimately Labyrinth
was a box office dud, barely making half of its budget, but the film would go on to gain a cult following thanks
to Henson’s endearing spirit and Bowie’s iconic rock-n-roll status -- both of whom
contributed to the “magical” experience on set.
Only 14 years old at the time, Connelly was amazed by the
film’s huge, “beautifully designed” sets filled with Henson’s imaginative, new
creatures. “It was like wonderland for me,” she recalled.
WATCH: Remembering Jim Henson, 25 Years After His Death
“I loved Jim Henson, and David Bowie was so sweet to me,”
Connelly, 45, said. “[Making] it was probably more fun than watching the film. It
was a really special experience.”
Sadly, both Bowie and Henson died before the film celebrated
its 30th anniversary on June 27. The director passed away 26 years ago on May 16, 1990. “I had so much admiration for him,” Connelly said
of Henson's “gentle spirit.”
“He was really genius,” she added.