The Dark Crystal is a live-action American fantasy film released in 1982. Instead of live actors, the film uses Muppets to tell the tale of two Gelflings, Jen and Kira, who go on a quest to heal a powerful crystal that very well may save their planet.

Story

The film takes place in the world of Thra, a world dominated by the power of “crystals,” which harness the power of Thra's three suns and maintain harmony throughout the land. 1000 years before the events of the film, the Crystal of Truth was shattered by the UrsSkeks (the dominant race on Thra), which split them into two warring races: the urRu, who are peaceful, and the Skeksis, who are evil. However, it is prophesied that the gnome creatures the “Gelfings” will restore the crystal to its original form, and bring order back to Thra. Two Gelfings, Jen (Jim Henson) and Kira (Kathryn Mullen), set out on a journey to fulfill this prophecy and save Thra.

Art Direction

Unlike much of Jim Henson's other work on productions such as The Muppet Show and Sesame Street, The Dark Crystal makes use of decidedly dark imagery, characters and music. The characters are grotesque, macabre creatures, and the film explores themes of good vs. evil throughout. The actual costume designs used in the film were done by Brian Froud, the author of the book The World of The Dark Crystal, which coincides with the film.

Fast Facts

1. Directed by Jim Henson and Frank Oz
2. Written by Jim Henson and David Odell
3. Release Date: December 17, 1982
4. Run Time: 93 Minutes
5. Starring: Stephen Garlick, Lisa Maxwell and Billie Whitelaw
6. The Muppet characters were created by Jim Henson's Creature Shop
7. A sequel, The Power of the Dark Crystal is set for a 2008 release