The Dark Crystal

Directed by: Jim Henson, Frank Oz

Written by: Jim Henson (story), David Odell (screenplay)

Every once in a while, a movie comes along that takes a different direction than any other film that came before it. The film, then, is revolutionary not because it changes the way movies are made, but because it shows that a different way of making movies is possible. "The Dark Crystal" is that kind of film.

As the film begins, the evil Skeksis have ruled for a thousand years, having exiled the gentle Mystics and nearly wiped out the race of Gelflings. But Jen, the last surviving Gelfling, is on a mission to fulfill the prophecy that will end the reign of the Skeksis. Along the way, he encounters various creatures, including the mysterious Aughra and Kira (another Gelfling). But will Jen be able to replace the crystal shard and restore the Dark Crystal before it's too late?

What sets apart "The Dark Crystal" from any other film is that it contains no actors despite the fact that it is a live-action film. Puppets designed by Jim Henson - and not his floppy, if fun, Muppets - populate the world of this film. This has the effect of heightening the fantasy element of the film without drawing from cartoonish effects.

"The Dark Crystal" has its flaws. It's plot is slow in unwinding itself, and a large chunk of the film is spent in necessary exposition. Many of the scenes feel episodic and disconnected. The puppets are also limited in their movements and expressions - although this is made in comparison to modern CGI effects.

Of course, it's hard to compare "The Dark Crystal" to anything else because there is nothing else quite like it. It can only be seen and appreciated on its own.

I like to think of "The Dark Crystal" like an experimental album. Beyond rating it as good and bad, it is simply different. And that difference makes it meaningful.