Labyrinth Dances Back to Theaters: 40th Anniversary 4K Re-Release

Get ready to step into the Goblin King's realm once more! Jim Henson's beloved fantasy classic, Labyrinth, is returning to the big screen in a stunning 4K remaster for its 40th anniversary, inviting a new generation and nostalgic fans alike back into its magical, menacing maze.

TL;DR: Quick Facts on the Labyrinth Re-Release

• Labyrinth is getting a special 40th-anniversary 4K theatrical re-release from January 8-11, 2026.
• Starring David Bowie as Jareth the Goblin King and Jennifer Connelly as Sarah, the film features iconic puppetry by Jim Henson's Creature Shop.
• The re-release includes an exclusive featurette filmed at a recent fan event in the UK, celebrating the movie's enduring legacy and dedicated community.

Step Inside the Labyrinth: A Return to the Goblin King's Magical Maze

Imagine a world where a flamboyant Goblin King, with gravity-defying hair and mesmerizing eyes, sings pop anthems while holding a baby hostage, all while a determined teenager navigates a labyrinth teeming with fantastical puppets. This isn't just a fever dream; it's the enduring magic of Jim Henson's Labyrinth, and soon, you'll have the chance to experience it on the big screen once again.

Fathom Entertainment, known for bringing classic films back to theaters, is partnering with The Jim Henson Company and Sony Pictures to celebrate the film's 40th anniversary. This special event will feature a crisp 4K remaster, ensuring every shimmering crystal and grimy goblin looks more vibrant than ever before. It's a rare opportunity to see this visual spectacle as it was meant to be seen, filling a massive screen with Henson's unparalleled imagination.

Mark Your Calendars for a Limited Theatrical Experience

Circle January 8-11, 2026, on your calendars because that's when the Labyrinth 4K remaster will play in theaters across North America. This four-day limited engagement is designed to give fans a concentrated window to revisit a cinematic masterpiece, making each screening feel like a special event. Beyond the upgraded visuals, the re-release includes a unique treat: a special featurette showcasing footage from the "Labyrinth Experience & Masked Ball," a cosplay event held in the U.K. last October. It's a neat nod to the dedicated fandom that has kept the film's spirit alive for decades.

Tickets are already available for purchase through the Fathom Entertainment website and at participating theater box offices. Given the limited run, securing your spot early is a good idea, especially if you want to dance with the goblins on opening night.

The Unbeatable Creative Power Behind This Enduring Fantasy

What makes Labyrinth such a landmark film, still cherished 40 years later? It’s truly the result of a "magical combination" of visionary talent, as Ray Nutt, CEO of Fathom Entertainment, eloquently puts it. The film brought together master puppeteer Jim Henson as director – a project that sadly became his final directed feature – and legendary filmmaker George Lucas serving as executive producer.

Then there's the unforgettable cast: a young Jennifer Connelly in her breakthrough role as the determined Sarah, and the one and only David Bowie as Jareth, the flamboyant Goblin King. Bowie didn't just act; he also wrote and performed several original songs for the film, embedding his unique musical genius into the very fabric of the Labyrinth's world. Conceptual designs by Brian Froud brought the fantastical creatures to life on paper, which were then realized as hundreds of extraordinary puppets by Jim Henson’s Creature Shop. Performers like Frank Oz, Brian Henson, and Kevin Clash gave these creatures their distinctive personalities, making them feel incredibly real. The witty screenplay was penned by Monty Python co-founder Terry Jones, adding another layer of unique humor and surrealism to the narrative.

"The magical combination of Jim Henson, George Lucas, David Bowie, Jennifer Connelly and hundreds of extraordinary creatures and puppets from Jim Henson’s Creature Shop made Labyrinth a landmark fantasy classic, one that is beloved by Fathom Entertainment audiences over the years,"

— Ray Nutt, CEO, Fathom Entertainment

From Box Office Disappointment to Revered Cult Classic Status

When Labyrinth first premiered in June 1986, it didn't exactly set the box office on fire. It grossed $34 million globally against a $25 million production budget, a figure that, at the time, was seen as a disappointment. This initial reception might have made some question its future, but films sometimes need time to find their true audience. For Labyrinth, that audience grew steadily through home video releases and television airings.

The movie's unique blend of whimsy, dark fantasy, memorable music, and practical effects was perhaps ahead of its time. It wasn't a straightforward children's film, nor was it a typical adult fantasy, dwelling in a fascinating, sometimes unsettling, middle ground. This distinctiveness, initially a hurdle, became its strength. Over the decades, it blossomed into a cherished cult classic, beloved by "Henson and Bowie acolytes" worldwide. Its enduring appeal lies in its originality and the sheer artistry poured into every frame, offering an escape into a world unlike any other. It’s a testament to how creative risks, even when not immediately rewarded commercially, can forge lasting legacies.

Encountering Labyrinth's Timeless Magic: A Modern Example

Take Sarah, a lifelong fan who first saw Labyrinth on VHS in the late '80s. She remembers being captivated by Bowie's magnetic performance and terrified by the grotesque but endearing puppets. Fast forward to 2026, Sarah is now a parent herself. For the 40th-anniversary re-release, she plans a special outing, not just for herself, but to introduce her ten-year-old daughter, Maya, to the movie on the big screen. Maya, accustomed to CGI-heavy blockbusters, might initially be skeptical of a film with such visible practical effects. But as Jareth's voice fills the theater and the meticulously crafted creatures of the Labyrinth come to life, Sarah watches as Maya's eyes widen, slowly succumbing to the film's unique charm, just as she did decades ago. It’s a shared experience, bridging generations through a story about imagination and courage, proving that true magic never fades.

A Glimpse Into the Future: Is a Labyrinth Sequel on the Horizon?

Beyond the excitement of the re-release, whispers of a Labyrinth sequel have long circulated, sparking both hope and trepidation among fans. Filmmakers have openly discussed the challenges. Two years ago, director Scott Derrickson (known for films like Doctor Strange) noted the difficulty in making such an imaginative and surreal project "commercially viable" without compromising its artistic integrity. It’s a tough tightrope walk: a sequel needs to respect the original's unique spirit while also appealing to a modern audience and justifying a potentially large budget.

More recently, in 2024, Lisa Henson, CEO of The Jim Henson Company and daughter of Jim Henson, confirmed that getting the script right has been a persistent hurdle. She stated they're starting over with a new script and director, making it clear that a sequel won't be "anytime soon." The good news, however, is that visionary director Robert Eggers (celebrated for The Northman and The VVitch) has reportedly closed a deal to direct a new Labyrinth movie for TriStar Pictures, with Chris and Eleanor Columbus set to produce. While this is exciting news, Eggers' current focus is on his next original film, Werewulf, so patience will be a virtue for those hoping to see where the Labyrinth's story goes next. The commitment to "get the script right" and bring in a director with a distinct artistic vision suggests they understand the high expectations and the delicate balance required to honor such a beloved film.

Catching Up With Labyrinth: Viewing Options for Every Fan

For those who can't make it to the limited theatrical run, or simply want to revisit the magic from the comfort of their home, there are still ways to immerse yourself in the world of Labyrinth. You can grab a physical 4K copy, such as the 4K Steelbook edition, which offers a pristine viewing experience. If streaming is more your style, Labyrinth is currently available on Hulu. One article also mentions it streaming on Netflix, providing another accessible option to revisit Sarah's fantastical journey and Jareth's iconic musical numbers whenever you desire.

FAQs About the Labyrinth Re-Release When exactly does Labyrinth return to theaters? The 40th-anniversary 4K remaster of Labyrinth will play in North American theaters from January 8 through January 11, 2026, for a limited four-day engagement. Will the 4K remaster be available to stream or buy at home? Yes, you can already find a 4K copy of Labyrinth on physical media, such as the 4K Steelbook. For streaming, the film is currently available on Hulu, and some reports indicate it’s also streaming on Netflix. Is there a Labyrinth sequel in the works? A sequel has been discussed for years, with director Robert Eggers reportedly attached. However, development is still in the early stages, with The Jim Henson Company confirming they are starting over with a new script and director, so it won't be released anytime soon. What is the movie rated, and is it suitable for all ages? While the specific rating for this re-release isn't explicitly stated in the articles, Labyrinth was originally released as a fantasy adventure suitable for a wide audience. Fathom Entertainment's CEO mentioned it provides "a brilliant night at the movies for audiences of all ages," indicating its continued appeal as a family-friendly fantasy film. Practical Takeaways for Labyrinth Enthusiasts

• Secure your tickets early for the limited January 8-11, 2026, theatrical run to experience the 4K remaster on the big screen.
• Look forward to the exclusive featurette, a tribute to the dedicated fan community, included with the theatrical screenings.
• Consider a home viewing option like the 4K Steelbook or streaming on Hulu (and potentially Netflix) to celebrate the film's legacy at your leisure.
• Stay tuned for updates on the long-gestating sequel, but manage expectations for a release anytime soon, given its complex development.
• Share the magic: The re-release is a perfect opportunity to introduce Labyrinth to new viewers or relive its unique charm with fellow fans.

Sources

• Variety, ‘Labyrinth’ Returning to Theaters in January: Fathom Entertainment Sets 40th Anniversary Re-Release (EXCLUSIVE), Nov 14, 2025.
• bloody-disgusting.com, ‘Labyrinth’ Returning to Theaters for 40th Anniversary in January, Nov 14, 2025.
• Consequence, Jim Henson’s Labyrinth Returning to Theaters in 4K for 40th Anniversary, November 14, 2025.
• ComicBook.com, Nosferatu Director Weighs in on Reports of Developing a New Labyrinth, (implied Jan 2025 from article context).
• MovieWeb, Labyrinth 40th Anniversary Rerelease Sets Release Date for Jim Henson Movie, November 14, 2025.