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The Dark Crystal (2-disc 25th Anniversary Editi...

25th Anniversary DVD of The Dark Crystal, a 1982 film directed by Jim Henson and Frank Oz, which features an all-puppet cast.

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"Another World, Another Time, in the Age of Wonder..."

Dec 17, 2008

by Count_Orlok_22
posted in Friends and Fans of Fantasy

Rating:

-This review pertains to the 2-disc 25th Anniversary Edition DVD of The Dark Crystal-

"Another world, another time, in the age of wonder..."
...So begins Jim Henson's 1982 masterpiece The Dark Crystal, an amazing fantasy film that primarily uses puppets as its main characters. The Dark Crystal is perhaps the Muppet creator's most thoughtful endeavor and is a must-see for all fans of fantasy films or for fans of Jim Henson. The level of detail and the precision of the artistry that went into this film is a testament to what a great filmmaker can do, and Jim Henson was (and still is) a great filmmaker.
The Dark Crystal (25th Anniversary Edition DVD)

The Dark Crystal (25th Anniversary Edition DVD)

The story concerns Jen, a Gelfling, who must save his planet by restoring the legendary Dark Crystal, which must be done before the three suns of his planet meet in the Great Conjunction. If he fails chaos and destruction shall reign eternal. He begins his mission after his mentor, the wisest of the Mystics, dies. To a young Gelfling like Jen, the world seems an enormous and strange place. He encounters numerous dangers but finally reaches the home of the ancient being known as Aughra. Aughra gives Jen the crystal shard that he seeks, but the forces of evil invade her home and Jen has to flee before she can tell him anymore about his task. Meanwhile the cruel Skeksis are hunting Jen, for it is prophesized that a Gelfling will bring about their doom. But Jen finds an ally in Kira, the only other living Gelfling to survive the Skeksis' slaughter of their race years before. Jen and Kira, along with her furry and ferocious pet Fizzgig, set out for the castle of the Skeksis. But can they survive the dangers of the journey and restore balance to their world?

Henson's film (I should also mention that it was co-directed by puppeteer Frank Oz) is a stunning achievement in pre-digital special effects and features a profound philosophical/spiritual undercurrent that has fascinated viewers for over 25 years. The film is exciting, stimulating and perhaps at times too intense for younger children. But overall it's one of the greatest fantasy films ever made!
Healing the Dark Crystal

The 25th Anniversary Edition DVD includes the following special features: a beautiful new high definition film transfer, a new commentary track with conceptual designer Brian Froud, "The World of the Dark Crystal" vintage documentary, deleted scenes, original work print scenes, character illustrations, the new "Light on the Path of Creation" & "Shard of Illusion" documentaries, and previews.

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Scotman January 24, 2010

Great review -- but it's like a short commentary for you! You know, I remember seeing bits of this as a kid. I really need this DVD. I'm saving my money for a blu-ray player now that the prices are coming down to my poverty level. :)