| Overall Grade: |
A- |
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| Story: |
B+ |
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| Acting: |
B |
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| Direction: |
A- |
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| Visuals: |
A |
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Jim Henson's Visual Masterpiece
by Sarah (movies profile)
Mar 13, 2007
2
of
2 people found this review helpful
Though slow-moving for the mainstream audience, The Dark Crystal is a truly memorable film from Jim Henson, the creative genius behind the 1986 film "Labyrinth" and countless other television projects.
The Dark Crystal allows a glimpse into an entirely different world wherein human beings are nowhere to be found. The story concerns the all but vanished race of Gelflings, a small people whose existance is threatened by the wicked, vulture-like Skeksis. Two young Gelflings, Jen and Kira, are entrusted with a shard from a huge crystal. The crystal, when repaired with the shard, will heal the wounds of their suffering land.
The story is quite interesting but heavy, probably too much so for a younger audience. Many of today's adolescents lack the patience to either get involved in the story or to tolerate the slow-evolving story line. Adults are more likely to appreciate the underlying themes of friendship, commitment and spiritual balance presented by the characters.
Furthermore, the film is visually magnificent. English illustrator Brian Froud created the overall look of the Dark Crystal in close cooperation with Henson. The film is unique in the fantasy genre in that every one of its complex characters are puppets, and that no human ever appears on camera.
The Dark Crystal was unsuccessful in its original release, which was a great disappointment to creator Henson. Though the film speaks to a very specific audience, its intriguing story and visual beauty cannot be denied. |
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