Robert Eggers, the visionary filmmaker behind Nosferatu and The Lighthouse, has been announced as the writer and director of the highly anticipated sequel to Jim Henson’s 1986 cult fantasy film Labyrinth. The news, originally broken by Jeff Sneider of the TheInSneider, was confirmed by TriStar Pictures, marks a bold step for Eggers, who is set to collaborate with his frequent writing partner Sjón on the screenplay.
The sequel brings together a powerhouse production team, with Chris Columbus, Eleanor Columbus, and Lisa Henson producing, and Brian Henson serving as executive producer. Previously, Scott Derrickson (Doctor Strange) was attached to direct the sequel but departed after describing the project as “a tough nut to crack.” The initial script was penned by Maggie Levin, who envisioned the sequel as a continuation of the original film’s story.
A Cult Classic Reimagined
1980s kids remember the original, but so do a slew of devotees who came along after. The initial Labyrinth, directed by Jim Henson, starred David Bowie as the enigmatic Goblin King and Jennifer Connelly as a teenager navigating a magical maze to rescue her baby brother. Although it struggled at the box office upon release, the film found its audience through home video and television, earning a devoted following. Over the decades, Labyrinth has cemented its status as a beloved cult classic, inspiring tie-in novels, comic books, video games, and even fan-hosted masquerade balls.
With Eggers at the helm, fans are eager to see how his distinctive style of atmospheric visuals and psychological depth will shape the world of Labyrinth. Known for his meticulous attention to period details and darker tones, Eggers brings a fresh perspective to a whimsical, puppet-filled universe.
Those looking to catch up on the original can find it streaming across a number of platforms. Stream Labyrinth now on Peacock, Prime Video, Paramount+, Fubo, DIRECTV STREAM, Philo, Tubi, Pluto, and Roku.
What’s Next for Eggers?
Eggers isn’t stopping with Labyrinth. His upcoming werewolf horror film, Werwulf, set in the 13th century, is scheduled for release in December 2026, marking another collaboration with Focus Features. He’s also expressed interest in tackling a Western and a medieval epic titled The Knight. Eggers’ recent Nosferatu garnered critical acclaim and secured four Oscar nominations, cementing his status as one of the most innovative directors of his generation.
The Legacy of Labyrinth
As fans await Eggers’ sequel, the enduring appeal of the original Labyrinth looms large. The combination of Henson’s groundbreaking puppetry, Bowie’s magnetic performance, and an unforgettable musical score continues to resonate with audiences today. Eggers’ take promises to honor the legacy of the original while infusing it with his unique creative vision.
The sequel to Labyrinth is poised to enchant a new generation while rekindling nostalgia for longtime fans. While no release date has been announced, anticipation for Eggers’ reimagining of this iconic fantasy world is already building.