Saturday, September 17, 2016

Labyrinth: Created for Dreamers


A week ago, Justin and I went to see Labyrinth (1986), a fantastically wonderful fairy tale which celebrated its 30 year anniversary this year. Justin had already watched it before, loved it and even, apparently, owned it on DVD. I, on the other hand, watched it for the first time! Can you believe it? I can't! Me, who is all about fairy tales, magic, innocence, humor and romance - who writes stories not very different from Labyrinth herself, has never even watched this gem of a fairy tale! 



Truth be told, many many years ago, I tried to watch it. I think it was probably too late in the day, I was tired, and the very beginning of the movie pushed the wrong button in me - "how dare this young lady be so insensitive to a little child," I thought. Having a teenage girl now, I understand the main character so much better than I was able to back then, being a mother of a little child. Then, I think I just did not want to go much beyond that point, and fast and peacefully fell asleep. I never ever tried to watch this movie again. When I learned that it was shown on a big screen (with super comfortable recliner chairs, may I add - that increased my going to movies significantly in the last month or so!), I wanted to give it another try. All I knew was that David Bowie was in it, and that Jennifer Connelly was irresistibly adorable. That's all. I did not even remember that it was a fairy tale. 


I put together an outfit that I wanted to wear, but when it came to actually dressing and going, I felt my outfit wasn't crazy enough for the occasion. I mean, it was the 1980s. It was David Bowie. I just knew I had to be more bold, more edgy! I think in that very moment of realization, the spirit of Bowie visited, and the rest of my outfit came together in just a couple of minutes! There is only a jumpsuit from the original plan. The rest was all Bowie (thanks, David!). 



Needless to say, I feel in love head over heels with this movie! It is an absolute delight to watch and rewatch, again and again! Justin read that Jim Henson, the creator of Labyrinth, was disappointed with the reception of the movie so much that he never really got over it. He died 4 short years after the movie release. That year was big on blockbusters, comedies, and some whimsical and artsy movies too: Top Gun, Aliens, Ferries Bueller's Day Off, Blue Velvet, Big Trouble in Little China, Hannah and Her Sisters, and of course Star Trek. Lots and lots big titles, as you can see.


Such movies as Labyrinth, no matter how extremely rare they are, will never be as well received universally, by a large crowd. To tell the truth, they are not even meant for a large crowd. Even though the language of fairy tales is universal, it is understood and appreciated by rather a handful of souls who most of the time don't go to movies at all, simply because there is not so much out there to suit their gentle spirit. I read about Jim Henson, and he definitely was one such person himself - an eternal optimist, a grown child who never stopped believing in true magic. Not the kind that is sitting in the thick dusty tomes of long bearded wizards - but the kind that is found within oneself.


That is precisely why Henson was able to create this masterpiece. It is a simple story, but it is pure and true magic. No wonder there are fans who stay faithful to Labyrinth through the years - and no wonder that I have finally discovered it for myself. You made it for all of us, dreamers, Jim. And for those dreamers who are coming to this world now, long after you're gone. My daughter, for one.

The dreamy ball scene is one of the most beautiful in the movie, 
and quite unexpectedly sensual for such an innocent fairy tale.

I'll be frank with you - there are very few movies or TV shows that I like to watch time and time again. And when I find them, that's exactly what I do - I watch them over and over again. I think I only started realizing now that I am such a visual person. Maybe I needed to seek for a career in the movie industry, rather than academics or publishing fields. But it never even crossed my mind before. I think that stories told by movie makers are what touch me the most - only there are very few stories that really are on point with my own perception of life. Labyrinth is one of them.


Jumpsuit - ASOS Curve (old)
Vest with a fur collar - Torrid Insider (clearance)
Platforms - MIA via Nordstrom Rack
Purse - via TJ MAXX (old)
Necklace - Chico's Collectibles
Ring and bracelet - Lane Bryant (old)
Sunnies - Christian Siriano for LB

* * *

19 comments:

  1. Wow, Natalia, there is so much here to take in! I have not seen this film, but that will change! Love the whole vibe of the outfit for the film event! The jumpsuit is perfect and the feather necklace looks like it should have been in the film.
    The bag, too is a treasure. Finding a great movie to watch on the big screen is a note worthy event. Thanks for sharing this and your incredible outfit!
    xx, Elle
    http://www.theellediaries.com/

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I also felt like this necklace belong to the screen story, but only post factum - which is a little spooky. :)

      Delete
  2. sounds like a fabulous event!!!
    i saw the movie in the 90s of video - of cause it was not shown in the GDR. and i only watched it for david bowie - huge fan that i´m........ :-)
    your outfit ist perfect to watch a fairytale! whimsical and romantic. love the feather necklace - is it new?
    xxxxx

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I didn't know you are a fan of Bowie! The necklace is relatively new, I bought it last winter for a specific dress, but I didn't wear it before this event. :)

      Delete
  3. Such a great post. i'm intrigued to watch the movie and I can very well see your point. Nice bold outfit and inspired by Bowie, what's not to like?!

    ReplyDelete
  4. Such a great post. i'm intrigued to watch the movie and I can very well see your point. Nice bold outfit and inspired by Bowie, what's not to like?!

    ReplyDelete
  5. My dear Natalia, sorry not to visit you here more often, but it gets more and more difficult.
    It always makes me so happy to see you.
    I love the print, I want it, ahhhhhhh and thank you so much for reminding me about the film Labyrinth. I don´t remember having watched it, so I am so looking forward to it.
    much love, my dear friend

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Glad you stopped by, Sacramento! And hope you watch the movie soon - I'm sure you'll love it!

      Delete
  6. Chunky sandals, jumpsuits and feathers? Heck, yes! Three of my favourite things. You did Bowie proud.
    I've never seen Labyrinth, I know, I know...the genre doesn't real appeal. I'm afraid although your splendid cinema certainly does. Maybe I should give it a try, it's often on British TV. xxx

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I think you'll enjoy the film, Vix - don't think too hard, just give it a try! It has a wonderful sense of humor, among other things. Glad you approve of my Bowie inspiration. :)

      Delete
  7. Glad you enjoyed Labrynith , I remember seeing it many moons ago , I must admit I don't remember too much , time to see it again. Now onto your outfit, you look great in your jumpsuit and vest. For me your feather neck piece is the icing on the cake.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I am happy that you mentioned the necklace, Jill - I also think that it elevates the outfit. :)

      Delete
  8. I'm another one who has never seen Labyrinth. Although we have had two customers in the shop looking for huge 1980s dresses for a dress-up anniversary screening of the film - one bought a mad 1980s wedding dress with enormous sleeves, she looked incredible in it, and I can see now why she squealed when she saw it!
    You also look incredible, Natalia - love that jumpsuit. And I love the kindness and thoughtfulness of your comment on my post, thank you so much. xxx

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Dear Curtise, I miss you so much! I was so incredibly happy to finally see your post recently. I am looking forward to many more - with your unique style, wit and soulfulness! And I loved the shopping story, how wonderful for your customer to find such a treasure!

      Delete
  9. Dearest Natalia,
    I confess this is the first time that I read of this movie! You made me very curious - I immediately had to look in google whether Labyrinth is available in German - and yes, it is! I like David Bowie and his very crazy style - nice that there is a movie with him, I don't know yet. And beautiful as you hit the style with your outfit! A great jumpsuit - and the chain is breathtaking!
    Lots of hugs, Traude
    http://rostrose.blogspot.co.at/2016/09/rostrosige-herbstfarben.html

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you so much, Traude! Bowie is also known for elegant suits - another inspiration for style experiments! Enjoy the fairy tale! I call it fairy tale, but I guess it is a fantasy genre. Very warm and humorous, you will love it!

      Delete
  10. such a gorgeous jumpsuit! I've never seen Labyrinth...and after reading your review of it...I want to see it so badly right now.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Enjoy Labyrinth, Ivana! I even envy you - such a discovery! :)

      Delete