One virtually undisputed fact in this world is that Jim Henson’s work in the field of puppetry and animatronics is second to none, creating such classic characters as The Muppets and bringing us movies like LABYRINTH. One of his more notable works is THE DARK CRYSTAL, an 80s children’s movie that used groundbreaking animatronics to transport viewers into a new, wide and weird world. Now you will be able venture into the world again with the option to binge watch as Netflix has announced their upcoming prequel series, THE DARK CRYSTAL: AGE OF RESISTANCE.
The news was announced in a press release from the streaming king (queen?) that the new series will be a 10-episode fantasy adventure that will act as a prequel to the events in the original movie, and will utilize technology straight from Jim Henson’s Creature Shop. The story will center on three Gelfling who set out on a quest to spark a rebellion against the evil Skeksis to save their world. As you can tell, there are no strings on these Gelfling.
The film will be directed and executive produced by Louis Leterrier (INCREDIBLE HULK, NOW YOU SEE ME), with writing of the series being led by co-executive producers Jeffrey Addiss and Will Matthews, and Javier Grillo-Marxuach (LOST).
If you're worried you'll have to wait a long time to see anything regarding the project, do not fret, for here is a special teaser for the new show!
Vice President of Original Content at Netflix Cindy Holland had this to say about the upcoming series:
THE DARK CRYSTAL: AGE OF RESISTENCE will combine the art of puppetry perfected by The Jim Henson Company, with Louis’ vision, powerful storytelling and a mix of cutting-edge digital imagery and visual effects. I can’t wait for families around the world to see how we bring these unique characters to life.
As well, CEO of The Henson Company Lisa Henson (Jim’s daughter), spoke highly of both Leterrier and Netflix saying their passion for the original and unique storytelling make them the perfect combo to bring the series to life:
Louis Leterrier is passionate about the world of THE DARK CRYSTAL and has an incredible creative vision for the series. He brings this passion to every facet of the production as he leads the talented team of artists and writers that are bringing this entire universe to life. Netflix has a deep respect for my father's original work and the many people it inspired. They are the perfect partners to create this next epic chapter in THE DARK CRYSTAL story for new fans and the loyal fans who have waited so long for more adventures from this world.
I have to admit the movie looked frightening as hell when I would see pictures of the VHS on the stands as a kid, but in my “adulthood” I can’t deny the mastery of the technology. It may not be something I watch for nostalgic purposes, but Henson was an undeniable genius, and hopefully the team can capture that essence in the new series. I’m sure the groans are aplenty, but hey, at least they’re not recasting puppets with teen heartthrobs.
The series begins shooting this fall.