The Dark Crystal (1982) Review in 2025
A fantasy adventure film set in a world of magical creatures, where a young Gelfling embarks on a perilous journey to heal a broken crystal and restore balance to the world.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is suitable for family viewing, but parental discretion is advised due to some intense scenes and themes.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is worth watching for fans of fantasy and adventure films. It's a classic that has aged well, and its themes and world-building are still relevant today.
Spoiler Alert!
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The story revolves around Jen, a young Gelfling, who discovers that the Dark Crystal, a powerful artifact, is the source of the world's problems. He teams up with Kira, a wildling, and embarks on a quest to heal the crystal, facing various obstacles and enemies along the way.
Review Details
story8.00/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a clear narrative arc. However, some plot points feel a bit rushed and convenient.
acting8.00/10
The acting is solid, with the voice cast delivering convincing performances. However, some characters feel a bit one-dimensional.
characters8.50/10
The characters are well-developed and memorable, with distinct personalities and motivations. Jen and Kira's relationship is particularly well-portrayed.
direction9.00/10
Jim Henson's direction is masterful, bringing the world of Thra to life with stunning puppetry and cinematography.
cinematography9.00/10
The cinematography is breathtaking, with a unique blend of practical and miniature effects that transport the viewer to a fantastical world.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The Dark Crystal is a visually stunning film with a richly detailed world and engaging story. The characters are well-developed, and the direction is masterful.
Cons
Some plot points feel a bit rushed and convenient, and the acting is not always convincing. However, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise excellent film.
Notable Quotes
"A journey is a person in itself; no one person is capable of everything. They have to seek out each other's strengths and acquire new ones to achieve great things."
"The greatest teacher, failure is."
