Mark Cuban’s HDNet cable and satellite channel will air a Memorial Day double feature of Jim Henson’s groundbreaking fantasy films, The Dark Crystal and Labyrinth. The films, which have never been presented before in HD, will air one time only on May 30th at 8pm. The two films have not been seen on television in any form for over 10 years.

 

The Dark Crystal, which was directed by Henson and Frank Oz, was released theatrically 30 years ago. The fantasy film has developed a cult following and spawned a lot of merchandise including comics, OEL manga from Tokyopop, and games. Archaia is publishing a The Dark Crystal comic book and has produced a Mouse Guard/The Dark Crystal flipbook for Free Comic Book Day. A 3-D movie sequel to The Dark Crystal, Power of the Dark Crystal, is in the works and fantasy artist Brian Froud, who provided the striking conceptual art for The Dark Crystal, is on board for the sequel (see “Dark Crystal Sequel Set”).

 

Labyrinth, which was directed by Henson and produced by George Lucas, will celebrate its 25th anniversary this year. The film starred David Bowie as Jareth the Goblin King and Jennifer Connelly as Sarah Williams. Archaia has announced plans to publish a Labyrinth comic as well (see “Archaia to Launch Fraggle Rock”), and Sandstorm Productions has the rights to produce new games based on both The Dark Crystal and Labyrinth (see “Sandstorm Nets Marvel, Henson Licenses”).