Fathom Events recently brought The Dark Crystal back to the
big screen. For more information on upcoming Fathom Events dates, including their April 29 showing of another Jim Henson film, Labyrinth, click here.
When a magical crystal shattered, two new species came into
existence on the planet Thra; the evil Skeksis and the kind Mystics. A third
species, the Gelfling, are thought by the Skeksis to be extinct, but one – a young
male named Jen – has been taken in and raised by one of the Mystics. The Mystics
are growing older, and to save the world, Jen must go on a quest to repair the magical
crystal. On his quest, Jen meets Kira, another Gelfling. Together, they must
escape the hunters sent out by the Skeksis, and bring healing to their world
before it is too late.
** SPOILERS AHEAD THE REST OF THE WAY **
The Adoption
Connection
Jen’s parents and Kira’s parents have died, and Jen and Kira
were raised by kind members of other species. Jen is surprised to learn that there is
another Gelfling – someone who looks like him and who has had a similar history.
Strong Points
Jen and Kira act bravely and sacrificially for the good of
their world, and they are rewarded.
The film provides an opportunity to think about the good and
evil that are within all of us.
Jen reflects on the Mystic that adopted him, saying he is “family
and friend.” A character reflects on the family that adopted them by saying
that from them, “I learned the shapes of kindness.” That’s a great phrase.
Challenges
The Skeksis, and the monsters they send out, are
frightening. We learn that Jen’s parents were killed by Skeksis.
Jen’s adoptive father-figure dies in front of him, of old
age.
A conniving character attempts to earn the trust of Jen and
Kira, but intends to betray them. This could be triggering for children who
have been exploited. The evil characters attempt to drain the essence out of
Kira.
Kira is killed on screen. Although she is resurrected, she is
a sympathetic, childlike character and her death could be traumatic for some
young viewers.
Recommendations
The Dark Crystal is an interesting film. Every character is
a puppet, and the world created in the film is one with a deep sense of history,
but the tone is dark, and it seems likely to be frightening for most young
viewers. Additional aspects could be make triggering for young viewers who have
been abused, exploited, or who have unresolved issues regarding the death of
parents or friends. The Dark Crystal could be an interesting film for older
teens who could reflect afterwards on the spirit of adventure and the shape of
kindness – but even they might experience some challenges with the fact that Jen’s
adoptive parent does die.
Questions for
Discussion
Who has shown you “the shapes of kindness?” What does
kindness look like?
Jen and Kira are able to see each other’s thoughts and
dreams. What dreams do you remember having? Would you like to see anyone else’s
dreams?
If you could go on any adventure, what adventure would you
want to go on?
Other Ideas
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