Jim Henson’s Labyrinth: Coronation #8
Writer: Simon Spurrier and Ryan Ferrier
Artist: Daniel Bayliss and Irene Flores
Colorist: Joana Lafuente
Letterer: Jim Campbell
Publisher: Archaia
A Review by Melissa Prange
After falling in with a band of goblin rebels, Maria and her growing band of misfits find themselves less than impressed with the Labyrinth’s rebellion in Labyrinth: Coronation #8. Cible presents herself to the gang as Bunderghast the Invincible, but the goblins are not amused to find that a small worm is their legendary leader. Thankfully, Maria has her magic chalk–which keeps herself and Cible from becoming a snack at the rally. Their relief, however, is short-lived. The rebel goblins prove more interested in drinking than staging an attack on the Owl King, leaving the group without new allies.
Meanwhile, Jareth and Beetlegum continue to bicker over Toby’s tears as Sarah enters a dream. Jareth still refuses to continue the story of his mother (and, frankly, this plotline is getting a tad tedious).
Jim Henson’s Labyrinth: Coronation #8 primarily focuses on Cible and her slightly unfortunate desire to be the leader of the rebellion. Maria relates to her surprisingly well and the two have a long heart-to-heart. Unfortunately, the focus on this pair and their deceits drags the issue out a little. The ending more than makes up for the slow start, but be forewarned, this issue is very, very dialogue heavy. Thankfully, a fight breaks out among the goblins before the story ends, leading to some fun action-centric art. (Poor Tangle just wants hugs not fisticuffs, but it’ll do what it has to do to survive.)
The Verdict: Buy It.
Jim Henson’s Labyrinth: Coronation remains fun in spite of its tendency to move forward in fits and starts. The issue ends once again with a trap sprung and its characters in significant danger. Knowing the pacing of this series, I would be very much surprised if anything significant happens in the next issue. At least, this series always includes something fun to make it worth reading in spite of its repetition. Perhaps, Jareth and Beetlegum might even talk about something other than Toby’s crying in the next issue! One can certainly hope.
