The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance

A Modern Nerd’s Retrospective

The Dark Crystal was a film that was totally unique at the time. There were zero humans in the film, an imaginative world full of colorful creatures and characters, and a story with a very Tolkien feel to it. So of course, recapturing the imagination and love that was put into the original film was going to be an immense challenge. Of course, adapting and making sequels to older films can be a point of contention to many, and not without good reason. Reboots and sequels can have mixed reactions, but this property in particular is different. 

Being a lifelong fan of Jim Henson, and by extension a fan of the original film, I followed the production of a sequel to The Dark Crystal for many years. At one point it was going to be a direct sequel, in which Jen and Kira became the rulers of Thra. I remember seeing concept art and renditions of possible creatures that were going to be included, with the idea of something amazing being reintroduced to a modern audience. However, that never happened, and a lot of fans like myself were left with unsatisfied anticipation. Netflix however, would be there to alleviate any crushed hopes, announcing that they would be the ones creating a Dark Crystal series. 

The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance is a beautiful new take on the fascinating concepts that Jim Henson and Brian Froud. It's a wonder in this day and age of digital technology that such a series exists; an incredible cast, absolutely stunning puppets and practical set designs, not to mention a memorable score. These properties however have made a large comeback in recent years, with practical effects becoming popular once again thanks to Star Wars, and fantasy as a genre being at the forefront of motion picture technology and innovation. 

The inciting incident is that the Skeksis, a race of large bird-like beings revered by the Gelflings, are slowly withering in their old age. In the quest for immortality, the Skeksis scientist discovers that life force, or Essence as it is referred to, can be drained from living beings, using the titular Crystal. They imprison a Gelfling guard at their castle, and use the crystal to utterly obliterate her in the process. Another Gelfling, Rian, watches in absolute horror as someone he loves is destroyed on a molecular level. This sets off a chain of events that threatens to engulf the races and creatures of Thra. It's a struggle to reveal the wickedness of the Skeksis, as Rian and a group of misfits journey around Thra in an attempt to unite the Gelfling clans. 

    

            I find it difficult to describe the unique idea of a live action series without any live actors. The puppets are amazing creations, brimming with life and detail. The soul of the series is the puppeteer's and the heart of each performer can be felt even in the most minute and obscure characters. Even though fans had to wait a while (27 years to be exact) this brilliant follow up series delivers in all aspects. 

Honestly looking back, I could not imagine attempting to write a prequel to The Dark Crystal. Witnessing the beauty and the artistry of the result that fans were gifted with makes the series that much more special, especially when it comes to the story and practical effects. The characters are well written, the fantastical elements of the world add to the mythology, and the major use of puppets create a sense that the production was a joy to create. 

Owen Doud