Gobblin.net

So back in June I proposed this “Gobblin Gab” concept of creating themed discussion forums for all things Labyrinth and Return to Labyrinth. Most Labyrinth discussions usually end up debating nuances of the Jareth/Sarah relationship, but I’d like to put the spotlight on an aspect of the film that has nothing to do with either of the human leads  – the other stars of Labyrinth, the puppets. I’m not talking about Hoggle’s klepto proclivities or the goblin techniques for the breeding of chickens. I mean the actual art of puppetry that went into bringing the non-human characters of Labyrinth to life.

Throughout his career, and in the eighties especially, Jim Henson pushed the boundaries of what puppetry could achieve like no other artist before or since, and  Labyrinth was no exception. From cutting edge technology, like the radio controlled animatronic face of Hoggle or the record-breaking size of “Humongous,” to the decidedly analogy whimsy of the Helping Hands and the Fire Gang, Labyrinth pushed the envelope.

Please use the comments here to discuss your favorite puppet-centric moments of Labyrinth, or to reflect on the art of puppetry in general.

Today I want to test a new format on Gobblin.net – the “Gobblin Gab” post. In these posts, I’ll set up a topic for discussion related to Labyrinth the film or manga where readers can share their thoughts as a freeform conversation. In this way, we can keep the Labyrinth discussions alive without having a single thread grow ever more unwieldy, plus, by having a rotating topic, we can keep the discussions fresh. It will also help me to post more about Labyrinth without getting into volume 4 teasing too early or often. What do you think?

For the first installment of Gobblin Gab, let’s talk about the unsung heroes of the Labyrinth–the Goblins! While it is undoubtedly Jareth and Sarah who stir the most passions in Labyrinth fandom, there’s no doubt that the Goblin King wouldn’t be nearly as interesting without his subjects. I have three editions of the Goblins of Labyrinth art book/guide, which matches Terry Jones’ witty prose with Brian Froud’s gorgeous concept art, and while I don’t treat them as story bibles for Return to Labyrinth, they certain serve as inspiration for all things goblinesque. What wonderful creatures of illogic and grotesquerie goblins are! (And a little creepy at times, I must confess — especially the way their lower lips flap!)

To get the discussion started, I am curious, how to readers relate the Goblins of Labyrinth art books to the film? Do you consider Jones’ goblin history to be canon, or just a silly supplement with no real bearing on how you view the film? And when it comes to goblins, which ones are people’s favorites from the movie, manga or art book? Discuss!