Robert Eggers is Planning a Remake of "Labyrinth"
"Labyrinth" should have been adapted several times already
After "Nosferatu" Robert Eggers is apparently planning the next remake of a popular classic. We're talking about "Labyrinth".
As insider Jeff Sneider reports, Eggers is not only set to direct, but also write the screenplay.
The project is being developed in collaboration with Sony and the Jeff Henson Company. It is still unclear whether the film will be a complete reinterpretation of the 1986 original or a sequel. "Labyrinth" was directed by Jim Henson, the creator of "The Muppet Show", with music legend David Bowie as the Goblin King Jareth and Jennifer Connelly in the leading roles.
There have already been several attempts at a new "Labyrinth" film in recent years. For example, "Evil Dead" director Fede Álvarez and Scott Derrickson were initially in talks for the project. It remains to be seen whether Robert Eggers will successfully revive the fantasy classic.
The Career of Robert Eggers: From Theater to the Master Class of Modern Cinema
Robert Eggers is one of the most impressive filmmakers of recent years. With his unique style, often based on historical realism, intense atmosphere and psychological depth, he has quickly secured his place in contemporary cinema. His career is a prime example of an artist's transition from theater to film that a distinctive creative vision always finds its way.
Early Years and Theater Career
Born on July 7, 1983 in Lee, New Hampshire, Eggers showed an early fascination with art and storytelling. After graduating from the prestigious American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York, he began his career in the theater. There he worked as a production designer and director and developed a deep understanding of staging stories. His theater work was characterized by a particular attention to historical accuracy and atmospheric detail – two qualities that later became hallmarks of his films.
Eggers' experience in the theater laid the foundation for his career in film, where he developed a keen sense of visual storytelling and the importance of symbolism. His ability to create immersive worlds first became apparent in the elaborate sets he designed for numerous theater productions.
The Breakthrough With The VVitch (2015)
Robert Eggers' breakthrough in the film world came in 2015 with his feature film debut "The VVitch". Set in 17th century New England, the film tells the story of a Puritan family who encounter a seemingly supernatural threat in isolation. With meticulous research and an eye for historical authenticity, Eggers created a dark, claustrophobic atmosphere that was highly praised by critics.
The faithful use of Old English language, inspired by historical documents, and the minimalist but menacing score by Mark Korven contributed to "The VVitch" being considered one of the most impressive horror films of the 2010s. The film premiered at the Sundance Film Festival and brought Eggers international recognition.
What is particularly striking is how Eggers uses horror in "The VVitch" not just as a genre, but as a psychological and social analysis. The movie explores themes such as religious fanaticism, gender roles and the fear of the unknown, taking it beyond the mere shock experience.
The Lighthouse (2019) : A Surreal ´Masterpiece
Following the success of "The VVitch", Eggers took an even more experimental direction with his second film, "The Lighthouse" (2019). Shot in black and white, the movie tells the story of two lighthouse keepers, played by Willem Dafoe and Robert Pattinson, who slowly descend into madness while stuck on a remote island.
Eggers' use of vintage camera lenses and an almost square picture format gives the film a sense of temporal rapture. The mise-en-scène combines archaic sailor tales, Greek mythology and psychological symbolism to create a dense, surreal narrative. "The Lighthouse" was praised not only for its technical precision, but also for the outstanding acting performances and its dark, humorous yet disturbing mood.
The movie definitively established Eggers as a filmmaker who is not afraid to push boundaries and make radical, artistically challenging decisions. With a nomination for an Oscar in the "Best Cinematography" category, the film also received official recognition in the industry.
The Northman (2022) : The Leap into the Historical Epic
With his third feature film, "The Northman" (2022), Robert Eggers ventured into a much larger and more ambitious project. The film, a Viking revenge epic, is based on the Norse legend of Amleth, which also inspired William Shakespeare's Hamlet. With an impressive budget and a star-studded cast including Alexander Skarsgård, Nicole Kidman, Anya Taylor-Joy and Ethan Hawke, Eggers showed that he can also master blockbuster formats.
Although "The Northman" is more visually and narratively accessible than his earlier works, Eggers remains true to his signature style: meticulous historical accuracy, haunting imagery and a deep engagement with existential themes. The film deals with questions of revenge, fate and human savagery and combines these with intense action sequences and impressive nature shots.
Despite mixed commercial success, "The Northman" was acclaimed by critics and recognized as another example of Eggers' ability to transport viewers to bygone worlds.
Style and Influence
Robert Eggers is known for his relentless perfectionism and his ability to interweave historical realities with mythological and psychological elements. His cinema is often referred to as "elevated horror" or "arthouse horror", although Eggers himself rejects these categories. Rather, he sees himself as a storyteller who is fascinated by the past and human nature.
A central aspect of Eggers' movies is the collaboration with talented actors, cinematographers and production designers who bring his vision to life. His brother Max Eggers has also had a significant influence on his work, particularly in the development of the script for "The Lighthouse".
