Check out the graphic adaptation of Labyrinth as Sarah tries to save her brother from the Goblin King, Jareth. Experience this timeless story in Jim Henson’s Labyrinth #1 by BOOM! Studios!
JIM HENSON’S LABYRINTH #1 
Writer: Kyla Vanderklugt
Artist: Giorgio Spalletta
Colorist: Sara Cuomo
Letterer: Jim Campbell
Editor: Sophie Philips-Roberts
Publisher: BOOM! Studios
Cover Price: $4.99
Release Date: September 18th, 2024
Previously in Labyrinth: The original Labyrinth is a 1986 musical fantasy film directed by Jim Henson and produced by George Lucas. While it initially underperformed at the box office, it quickly became a cult classic. This comic book adaptation is based on the movie’s novelization by A.C.H. Smith.
Much like the movie, Labyrinth #1 begins with Sarah reciting lines before realizing she’s late. Realizing she is late, Sarah rushes home to watch her brother, Toby, while her parents prepare to go out for the evening. There’s some conflict here, as Sarah resents having to babysit and feels like losing her freedom. When Sarah notices one of her stuffed animals is missing, she storms into Toby’s room and angrily tells him she hates him. Sarah then utters the infamous line, “I wish the goblins would come and take you away right now.“ Her wish is granted, and Sarah meets Jareth, the Goblin King. He invites her to his castle in Goblin City. Sarah can have Toby back if she can reach it within thirteen hours!
I love the original movie. I watched Labyrinth countless times as a kid, which holds a special place in my heart. Because of that, I really enjoyed this comic—it hit all the right nostalgia notes for me. That said, I’m not sure Labyrinth #1 stands out as anything extraordinary. The writing and art are good, but nothing really pops. To test my theory, I read it with my kids on my second pass, and it didn’t grab their attention. So, is this just a nostalgia grab in preparation for the movie’s 40th anniversary? Perhaps. The comic doesn’t have Jennifer Connelly’s performance to make Sarah’s moment of regret impactful when she realizes Toby is gone. It’s hard to fully engage with the story without that emotional weight.
This book had a lot of potential, but I think it will ultimately be similar to the movie. Without David Bowie’s charismatic performance or Jim Henson’s masterful puppetry, the story doesn’t translate as well to the comic book format. With that said, Labyrinth #1 is a solid 3.5. It’s a decent comic, but my enjoyment is primarily due to nostalgia.
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Labyrinth #1
Labyrinth #1 is a faithful retelling of the 1986 movie, but it will likely struggle to captivate a new audience.
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Christopher Rondeau is a storyteller based in Tulsa, OK. Finding himself with little work, he ended up creating a job as a Game Master full time on the internet. Chris spends most of his days reading everything he can, writing bad fiction, and watching old Digimon cartoons with his daughter. Sometimes you can find him Dungeon Mastering a podcast or streaming on twitch. Recently, he has completed his Master's degree with a focus on collaborative storytelling. Find out more at https://rondeaucreator.com