Streaming Gem: The Dark Crystal (1982)
Photo from IMDb
From Shane Conto
Do you have some of those films from your childhood that STILL haunt your dreams today? The 1980s were a special time in filmmaking when it came to “kids” and “family” films. Sure, there are plenty of great themes that children should learn but there are more than likely some moments thrown in that would give nightmares for years. The NeverEnding Story. E.T. The Extra-terrestrial. Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom. There are plenty of moments that would probably scare kids more than entertain them. But Jim Henson and Frank Oz created quite the special film back in 1982… The Dark Crystal.
What makes this such a great film for your childhood? First off, there is some incredible and wondrous work in terms of bringing the story to life. The puppets are whimsical (and sometimes terrifying) and iconic. The fantasy world is such a wonderful feat of filmmaking and storytelling. There are some cute critters along the way too. There are some great themes as well as this film navigating the complexities of identity as well as what good and evil are.
But what makes this film push the boundaries of what kids can handle? Some of the character designs are cute (that little fuzzball, Fizzgig) and some look majestic like the Mystics and Gelfling. But others are nightmare fuel for sure. The Skekis are terrifying with their boney and wrinkling appearances. Their growling is unnerving but The Chamberlain steals the show with his hilarious and memorable inquisitive ‘Mmmmmmmm!” Aughra is a mythical figure but she is not necessarily easy on the eyes. But the giant horseshoe crab looking beasts, the Garthim, and terrifying and haunted my dreams as a kid. There is also an atmosphere around the film that has weight and a foreboding nature that breeds plenty of thrills and scary moments that somehow was made for children. The 1980s were wild!
What makes this film stand the test of time and still resonate in the cinematic landscape today? This is a wonderful example of good old fashioned fantasy filmmaking. There is a gorgeous and awe-inspiring world that Henson and Oz created. There are wondrous creatures and beings that fill every frame. This is not a film worried about having human characters so the audience “connects better”. This puppet world is fully realized and fantastical in such an authentic way. The world-building is so detailed and filled with wonder and tangible elements. The story is simple but it stays so whole-heartedly true to the classic hero’s journey. They just don’t make fantasy films quite like this anymore and that is a shame.
Why should you jump back into your childhood and enjoy The Dark Crystal? The story is simple and accessible for everyone. There is a whole cast of memorable characters and creations that you can appreciate. The film works on an entertainment level but is also such a great example of how filmmaking can evolve. There is a healthy mix of different tones and atmospheres whether it is borderline horror, high fantasy, or sprawling adventure. The world of puppetry is such a fun and engaging approach to storytelling and seeing Henson and Oz are their creative peaks at work is quite inspiring.
You can find The Dark Crystal (1982) streaming on Peacock.Follow Shane
