525 reviews
After really enjoying season one and eagerly awaiting its return , the series has been cancelled .
An unexpected and shocking decision that leaves me behind in disbelief .
- RobbieRedeyez
- Nov 27, 2020
- Permalink
I wasn't sure at first, but it does grow on you, with some very subtle and brilliant humour towards the end. I am writing this review mainly to pay homage to SIMON PEGG'S voicing of the Chamberlain. This has to be one of the best voice artist works in TV history, its hard to tell it is even Simon Pegg, but the accents and inflections are quite simply superb, and you can tell he enjoyed every minute of it!
- andyhodges78
- Sep 1, 2019
- Permalink
To start the negative reviews are by people who obviously didn't see the movie, don't appreciate old school puppetry of Jim Henson and more likely skeksis. This is my childhood and even though now I'm in my 30s I'm still just as creeped out by the skeksis and their voices. The puppeteers are awesome and gives a true throwback and keeps Jim Henson very much alive for the show. I love it.
- georgiagirl-93620
- Sep 1, 2019
- Permalink
Why aren't more fantasy movies/series like this? It's unique, beautiful, moving and enthralling... It's evident that so much effort and attention to detail has been put into every little thing; the costumes, the sets, the voice acting. I am so glad one of my favourite childhood movies has been brought back and I hope the younger generation will learn to appreciate it as well.
Not everything is better with tons of CGI. Brian Froud and Jim Henson are a fantastic duo.
- ariannadeligianni
- Aug 31, 2019
- Permalink
I've been looking forward to this tv-series for a long time, and the wait was well rewarded. As a big fan of the original 1982 movie I was wondering if the series could live up to my expectations. The short answer is YES, and then some! I have watched the first episode with awe!
The production looks gorgeous, the puppets look very much like the originals, but with much more diversity. The puppeteering has been brought to the next level, as the movements are a bit more realistic. Very well done!
But the most important aspect is of course always the story. In my opinion they have succeeded in making an interesting prequel, slowly progressing toward the situation at the beginning of the movie.
If you like the original movie, you will certainly love this series!
The production looks gorgeous, the puppets look very much like the originals, but with much more diversity. The puppeteering has been brought to the next level, as the movements are a bit more realistic. Very well done!
But the most important aspect is of course always the story. In my opinion they have succeeded in making an interesting prequel, slowly progressing toward the situation at the beginning of the movie.
If you like the original movie, you will certainly love this series!
WHYyYyyYyYy!!!!!! THIS IS SOoOoOoO gOOD!!!! I love this show so much and Netflix had the audacity to cancel this!!!!! ON A CLIFFF HANGER!!!!!!!! Grrrrrrrr!!! Batwoman got another season and that stuff is trash and people don't even like it!!!! And now outer banks got another season and that was just painful to watch!!! Terrible!!! Netflix needs to get their act together!!! In the bin of shows cancelled too soon like agent Carter and firefly and Jessica jones. GRRRRRRRRR!!!!!! EVIL NETFLIX!!!! EVIL!!!!
REVIIIIVEEE!!!!!!!
REVIIIIVEEE!!!!!!!
- Safffffffff
- Sep 10, 2021
- Permalink
The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance is more family-friendly and has a general sheen of class that might make it more appealing to a wider audience. It's absolutely gorgeous, with delightfully physical puppets giving a weight and realism to the colorful fantasy imagery. Some viewers might be put off by the fact it's acted out by puppets, but they'd be missing out. Age of Resistance is a compelling and powerful story packed with relatable characters.
A prequel to the 1982 cult film The Dark Crystal, this Netflix TV adaptation expands on legendary director Jim Henson's vision. The 10-episode fantasy drama focuses on the world of Thra, which was first established in the original movie. Gelflings, who are elf-like creatures, are the sentient species living in the land of Thra. The Netflix series chronicles the lives of three young Gelflings who embark on an adventure after birthing a rebellion against Skeksis, the cruel emperor of Thra. After learning the horrifying truth behind Skeksis's powers, the trio decide to save their world from his oppressive dominion.
A wholly magical and immersive experience, The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance knows exactly where it's going and how it needs to get there. It is truly an enchanting and immersive visual and narrative experience unlike any other. The series also proves beauty can exist within a fully-realized world. Filled with gorgeous cinematography, carefully-crafted narratives, and memorable performances, this Netflix series is easily one of the most original and adventurous shows of 2019.
A prequel to the 1982 cult film The Dark Crystal, this Netflix TV adaptation expands on legendary director Jim Henson's vision. The 10-episode fantasy drama focuses on the world of Thra, which was first established in the original movie. Gelflings, who are elf-like creatures, are the sentient species living in the land of Thra. The Netflix series chronicles the lives of three young Gelflings who embark on an adventure after birthing a rebellion against Skeksis, the cruel emperor of Thra. After learning the horrifying truth behind Skeksis's powers, the trio decide to save their world from his oppressive dominion.
A wholly magical and immersive experience, The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance knows exactly where it's going and how it needs to get there. It is truly an enchanting and immersive visual and narrative experience unlike any other. The series also proves beauty can exist within a fully-realized world. Filled with gorgeous cinematography, carefully-crafted narratives, and memorable performances, this Netflix series is easily one of the most original and adventurous shows of 2019.
- robfollower
- Aug 29, 2019
- Permalink
When I first heard that a prequel of Dark Crystal was in production, I must admit, I was a bit skeptical. What about the original magic that was used by the late Jim Henson and his team. Will they focus more on what the current young folks want, nowadays (aka hyperactive action scenes and overkill of CGI). Well, thank God they did not. They respected the work of Jim Henson and if he were alive today, he would be proud as hell of what has been created. So glad to get a full background on the world and the people in the dark crystal universe. Perfect voice casting and last but use of the nostalgic puppets, we all learned to love. One worry I do have. Since this is a prequel to the movie, I wonder how much seasons they can produce before they reach the point where the story of the movie starts. I hope we do get a few seasons extra of this majistic master piece. A wel deserved 10!
This is an amazing series, creative and true to its origins! That is all!!
- prehartwork
- Aug 30, 2019
- Permalink
Beautiful. A masterpiece. Jim would be so proud.
A must watch for anyone looking for the next fantasy masterwork.
- chilldgreese
- Aug 30, 2019
- Permalink
I did not see the original movie from the 80's before I was socked into this universe, but I was instantly in love with its beauty. Maybe its not a 10/10, but I love Netflix for making something so original and magical for once. This is a nice combo with stranger things for me. Both series are 10/10 entertainment. Well done Netflix.
- anders-arndal
- Sep 6, 2019
- Permalink
So well done. I thought it was going to be a full CG over production of a classic, I was so wrong. Some younger viewers might be off put by the earlier puppetry style characters growing up in this computer generation age, but not this guy! The characters were true to the original, yet used modern technology to enhance the background and scenery. I think this production was created by people who are true fans of the original motion picture. In my opinion Mr. Henson would be extremely proud.
I was too scared to watch the original movie as a child, and I still haven't watched it...I plan to soon...so for the purpose of this review I'll have to keep it at the series and not compare it to the movie.
The world is beautiful, the puppetry is amazing....I'm shocked at other reviews that have said the puppets are too frozen...I suggest they watch the behind the scenes doco also on Netflix to see how it was all done. I don't think you could physically get any more movement in the faces.
I think it's wonderful that this concept has been brought back and I hope another series is greenlit.
I do think there are too many episodes for the story...I am not a fan of the story process as described by the writers...I know that's the way a lot of television is written these days but I find this leads to things not flowing or making sense...the story just becomes a way to get from a to b. (Rather than a story that has been fully planned out as it were)
On a final note, I found elements of the story to be terrifying and heart wrenching..not going to say any more than that...I'm not sure how another reviewer could say it wasn't dark enough...
Like I said...I found elements to be very dark! I would not show this to young children.
Now to watch the original movie!
I can understand how many could give this high ratings. From the first episode one is awed by the degree of creative design, use of CGI and imagination in this series.
Unfortunately, that's all it's got. The worst flaw of the series is blowing the basic premises of the movie out of the water-- concepts that were essential to the Dark Crystal story. If one never saw the movie that probably wouldn't bother... but who hasn't seen the movie. This is like saying that Superman never came from Krypton or Spider-Man wasn't bitten by a radioactive spider or James Kirk never met Spock. The major plot change blows the whole concept of the show right from the start. Simply a bad plot decision that immediately alienates many Dark Crystal fans.
Then there's the yaaaawwwwn "story". Twenty minutes into the first episode I was bored (and that's not easy to do, as I love artistic fantasy / scifi-- and this has lots of artistry). But this series carries none of the charm, fascination, or personality of the original movie. It's just droll. Not to mention that constant snot goobers coming out of the nose pustules of one of the main characters is just repeatedly gross.
One matter that bothered me (and many other reviewers): The puppets themselves. Were the Gelfling faces made of flat plastic sheets? Seriously, they had none of the look, charm and beauty of the original Gelflings. In truth, they looked pretty much like paper mache puppets. Not near the quality of the originals.
Beauty, style and CGI does not a series make. Story, character and heart is the soul of the film. So I can only give it a 5-star "mediocre" rating. I've said it before: start with a good plot and story. The focus isn't on the landscape and CGI: it should be about the characters and intriguing plot. Other shows and local plays can do this with a one-room setting. Surely a series with the finances behind this one could do far better.
Unfortunately, that's all it's got. The worst flaw of the series is blowing the basic premises of the movie out of the water-- concepts that were essential to the Dark Crystal story. If one never saw the movie that probably wouldn't bother... but who hasn't seen the movie. This is like saying that Superman never came from Krypton or Spider-Man wasn't bitten by a radioactive spider or James Kirk never met Spock. The major plot change blows the whole concept of the show right from the start. Simply a bad plot decision that immediately alienates many Dark Crystal fans.
Then there's the yaaaawwwwn "story". Twenty minutes into the first episode I was bored (and that's not easy to do, as I love artistic fantasy / scifi-- and this has lots of artistry). But this series carries none of the charm, fascination, or personality of the original movie. It's just droll. Not to mention that constant snot goobers coming out of the nose pustules of one of the main characters is just repeatedly gross.
One matter that bothered me (and many other reviewers): The puppets themselves. Were the Gelfling faces made of flat plastic sheets? Seriously, they had none of the look, charm and beauty of the original Gelflings. In truth, they looked pretty much like paper mache puppets. Not near the quality of the originals.
Beauty, style and CGI does not a series make. Story, character and heart is the soul of the film. So I can only give it a 5-star "mediocre" rating. I've said it before: start with a good plot and story. The focus isn't on the landscape and CGI: it should be about the characters and intriguing plot. Other shows and local plays can do this with a one-room setting. Surely a series with the finances behind this one could do far better.
Oh wow - this magnificent Netflix series tells the prequel of The Dark Crystal. It's visually magnificent and extremely dark and disturbing. The Skeksis made their long awaited return to the screen and it does not disappoint. They are pure evil. If you are a fan of the original - like I am - you will love this show. If you have never seen The Dark Crystal - start now. Thank goodness we get a show that has great puppetry and creativity.
Ummm ok so never seen any of this before, didn't have a clue what the 'The Dark Crystal' was but Elementary has now finished so needed something to watch and this popped up. Watched one episode and was hooked. Sooooo good. Now on episode 7. Watch it!!!!
- jack-43362
- Aug 29, 2019
- Permalink
These are dark times for those looking for stories that make them dream,
thankfully, combining old and new style, "The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance" leads us to dream again.
Recommended but not for closed minds
Wonderful retelling of a cult classic through the use of puppetry and modern day cgi. It's simply magical, the voice acting superb, each episode adding to and building on the fascinating world that Jim Henson created.
As a child I loved the original and for once it seems like the production team have paid attention to the original source material. Thank you for not ruining another childhood memory.
Strongly recommend this show. There's nothing else like it!
- myfriendjuliet
- Aug 31, 2019
- Permalink
I'm a fan of the original Dark Crystal, but it has plenty of flaws. Netflix has taken that crazy, 80s, puppet movie and updated it, polished it, and given it a heck of a lot more depth. This series has dialed up the story and the lore to 11. The music is powerful, there is emotional story telling, and wonderful lessons if you're looking. This is a fantasy epic in the same vein as Lord of the Rings and Game of Thrones, but it is so different from both of them, and not in a bad way. If you enjoy fantasy, if you enjoyed the old Dark Crystal movies, if you enjoy set design and special effects, if you enjoy epics that are larger than life-you will enjoy this movie. I'm just a random guy on the Internet, but I strongly recommend it.
- garrinschlink
- Aug 31, 2019
- Permalink
On a planet a handful of Gelflings begin a rebellion against the Skeksis when they discover a terrifying secret behind their power that threatens all of their world.
This series prequel to the 1982 movie is admirably inventive and has all the visual splendour of the film while expanding on Jim Henson's original vision.
These well directed episodes have the same intense feel only with more action and deep colours. There is something underlying menacing which stirs emotions like its predecessor. And just like Dark Crystal, Age of Resistance may be a little too creepy for children (and some adults too!). It also has the charm of the recent J. R. R. Tolkien adaptations only with puppets. Sigourney Weaver narrates and it features the talents of Taron Egerton, Anya Taylor-Joy, Nathalie Emmanuel, Simon Pegg, Mark Hamill,Jason Isaacs to name a few. Even though the voices of the original characters are not consistently spot on they're good enough not to distract too much and that's really as negative as it gets.
As with the best screen fantasies it has a dreamlike atmosphere and once the characters are established it moves at a brisk pace breaking new ground, introducing new places, creatures and characters not see before in the world Thra.
The advancements in technology mixed with traditional puppets is breathtakingly groundbreaking. Excellent viewing, highly recommend.
This series prequel to the 1982 movie is admirably inventive and has all the visual splendour of the film while expanding on Jim Henson's original vision.
These well directed episodes have the same intense feel only with more action and deep colours. There is something underlying menacing which stirs emotions like its predecessor. And just like Dark Crystal, Age of Resistance may be a little too creepy for children (and some adults too!). It also has the charm of the recent J. R. R. Tolkien adaptations only with puppets. Sigourney Weaver narrates and it features the talents of Taron Egerton, Anya Taylor-Joy, Nathalie Emmanuel, Simon Pegg, Mark Hamill,Jason Isaacs to name a few. Even though the voices of the original characters are not consistently spot on they're good enough not to distract too much and that's really as negative as it gets.
As with the best screen fantasies it has a dreamlike atmosphere and once the characters are established it moves at a brisk pace breaking new ground, introducing new places, creatures and characters not see before in the world Thra.
The advancements in technology mixed with traditional puppets is breathtakingly groundbreaking. Excellent viewing, highly recommend.
So many reviews talked about the liberties taken from the original. This sets up the original movie. And it is a much different world. My biggest issue is that this is very violent for younger viewers. I'm going to have to go back and watch the original now. I don't remember so much torture and one of the slaves gets bludgeoned to death with blood splattering on the other animals in cages. Artistic work into the environment and creature creation is amazing. Some CGI is very noticeable. Script is annoying at times. Cliches about misunderstandings are present. I'm not a professional reviewer, so give it a watch! It was worth the binge.
- miles-10585
- Aug 30, 2019
- Permalink
Im absolutely loving Netflix right now, great flash of nostalgia, What a fantastic cast and wow the production! Pure amazing magic
- jodo151-654-152490
- Aug 29, 2019
- Permalink
So this is basically a tale set in the world cloned from Krull, the villians are pretty much Nanny Fine and Cicero of Skyrim voiced in the speech patterns of Jar Jar Binks, and moves about the pace in the first episode of Pan's Labyrinth. The combination of the cinematography is not the clear etched CGI we have gotten used to and it shouldn't be. This is old school film making with a blend of modern and well done puppetry. As the story goes, I'm hooked. Think more Tad Williams progression versus Brandon Sanderson, but you are in for a good time regardless.
Younger kids may have a harder time following whats going on.
- mountainflamingo
- Sep 1, 2019
- Permalink
On paper, this seems like something I'd really love...an epic, sci-fi, fantasy tale with some great world building, a cool mythology, great voice acting, practical effects, and puppets.
I don't wanna besmirch all the hard work that went into this...it's hugely impressive.
But for some reason, I just don't care. Honestly, the puppets are just lacking for me....in return of the Jedi for example, we had such amazing puppet work, but without having some human faces with emotion for contrast, this show is really hard to connect with. The characters are slow and wooden, because they're made of wood.
I remember trying to rewatch the old one and I thought the same thing...its all so slow and lifeless, and a bit indulgent...just because something takes tons of effort doesn't mean its going to connect...and trust me, I'm a lifelong muppet and puppet fan...but I feel like Kermit's performer could give me more emotion scrunching up his hand than all the Dark Crystal Characters in an hour long TV show. I'm crushed.
I don't wanna besmirch all the hard work that went into this...it's hugely impressive.
But for some reason, I just don't care. Honestly, the puppets are just lacking for me....in return of the Jedi for example, we had such amazing puppet work, but without having some human faces with emotion for contrast, this show is really hard to connect with. The characters are slow and wooden, because they're made of wood.
I remember trying to rewatch the old one and I thought the same thing...its all so slow and lifeless, and a bit indulgent...just because something takes tons of effort doesn't mean its going to connect...and trust me, I'm a lifelong muppet and puppet fan...but I feel like Kermit's performer could give me more emotion scrunching up his hand than all the Dark Crystal Characters in an hour long TV show. I'm crushed.
- peteoneillbass
- Nov 23, 2023
- Permalink