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How ‘The Dark Crystal’ Showcased Jim Henson’s Underrated Genius 42 Years Ago

‘The Muppets’ creator, Jim Henson, made a daring move in 1982 with ‘The Dark Crystal’. In contrast to his previous works, the movie only used puppetry and animatronics to create a complex, extraterrestrial environment; it had no human beings. ‘The Dark Crystal’, which Frank Oz co-directed, stretched the limits of storytelling and filmmaking technology. Despite confusing viewers and reviewers when it was first released, the movie has now been known as a groundbreaking masterwork that displays Henson’s unmatched talent.

The movie, which is set on the planet of Thra, centres on Jen, a teenage Gelfling who is supposed to bring everything back into balance by fixing the Dark Crystal, a power source that the despotic Skeksis has misused. Along the way, Jen meets Kira, another Gelfling who is still alive, and the two of them set out to stop the Skeksis and carry out the prophecy. Drawing on Joseph Campbell’s Hero’s Journey, the tale is reminiscent of great fantasy epics such as ‘The Lord of the Rings’, but it prioritizes its visual beauty over intricate character arcs.

Image Courtesy: BOMB Magazine

Together with fantasy artist Brian Froud, Henson and Oz created an aesthetically spectacular universe that featured elaborate animals and expansive scenery. The complex film, which was shot at Pinewood Studios, combined fantasy and gothic elements. 

Some commentators pointed out that the characters lacked the nuance and charm of Henson’s Muppets, despite the innovative puppetry. With their nuanced movements and unique personalities, the Skeksis and Aughra’s performances, however, were particularly noteworthy.

Image Courtesy: IMDb

‘The Dark Crystal’ is a huge success in fantasy filmmaking, despite a few minor issues with its characters and plot. Together with Trevor Jones’s dramatic soundscape, its inventive use of puppetry produces an enduring, engrossing experience. It is still a singular piece of art forty years later, solidifying Henson’s reputation as a fearless and innovative director.

–Farheen Ali 

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