Netflix has ordered 10 episodes of The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance, a prequel to the 1982 film, The Jim Henson Company announced. The series will be directed by Louis Leterrier (The Transporter, Clash of the Titans, The Incredible Hulk).
The series will include Henson Company puppetry and digital elements, Netflix VP of Original Content Cindy Holland explained. “The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance 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,” she said.
Puppets will be created by Jim Henson’s Creature Shop and Brian Broud, the famed fantasy artist who was the conceptual designer of the original film.
The storyline takes place in the world of Thra many years before the events of the film. Here’s the logline: “When three Gelfling discover the horrifying secret behind the Skeksis’ power, they set out on an epic journey to ignite the fires of rebellion and save their world.”
The Henson Company, in the person of CEO Lisa Henson, extolled Leterrier’s plan for the film. “Louis Leterrier is passionate about the world of The Dark Crystal and has an incredible creative vision for the series,” she said. “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.”
The property has lived on in other media; Archaia recently launched a 12-issue sequel comic series (see “Archaia Releasing Sequel to Jim Henson’s ‘Dark Crystal’”).
Click the video below for background on the production and brief creature footage!
