1986 - Rated PG - 1 hr 41 min
Director: Jim Henson
Starring: David Bowie, Jennifer Connelly, Toby Froud, Brian Henson, Dave Goelz
Oh, David Bowie! Oh, baby Jennifer Connelly! And oh, Ludo!
Maybe it's my childhood talking, but I absolutely love this Jim Henson classic. Looking back on it, I'm amazed that it didn't scare the crap out of me as a child. Somehow, in that way that only Jim Henson can, the movie tells a story that is both appealing to children and to adults, tackling real-life peril with humor and fun. Throw in a couple of songs -- and Bowie's outrageous Goblin King pants -- and voila! Instant classic the whole family will love.
Yes, it's weird and quirky and totally fantastical in nature. Yes, the characters are bizarre. But they're also lovable. Even if you get mad at Connelly for cursing her brother to the Goblin King in the first place, you'll forgive her within about 5 minutes and root for her all the way to the castle. Gotta love a good quest story, right? It's really tough not to love this movie.
If I were to guess why this didn't scare you as a kid: David Bowie isn't a threatening villain so that keeps the danger from feeling like too much. And I don't mean that as a criticism I think it actually makes him a fascinating villain that he's so easy going.
ReplyDeleteVery good point! Plus, that hair belies him. Hahahaha. But seriously, you're totally right about that! I'd never really put that into words before, so well done!
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