In celebration of the 35th anniversary of Jim Henson’s The Dark Crystal, return to the world of Thra in an official sequel to the beloved fantasy film. Discover an all-new race of creatures called Firelings that live in a realm near the planet’s core, based on official character designs by Brian Froud. Years have passed since the events of the original film, and though Jen and Kira have ruled Thra as King and Queen, bringing Gelfling back to the land, they have become distracted by power and can no longer feel or see the needs of the world the way they once did. Thurma is a young Fireling tasked with stealing a shard of the Dark Crystal to restore power to her realm. Along the way she’ll befriend the young Gelfling Kensho, bring back the Skeksis and Mystics, and embark on one incredible adventure.

Writing

After an eternity of waiting, the story many have wish for finally arrives. Based on screenplays by David Odell, Annette Duffy, and Craig Pearce, the long awaited sequel to the cult classic film The Dark Crystal can finally be explored by fans. After it was announced the sequel would finally be free of development hell and presented in a comic, many were fearful the project would live up to the hype. Fans have nothing to worry about as writer Simon Spurrier has successfully adapted these stories into an intriguing series which truly captivates the feel of the original film.

From the very start of the comic, the narration finds a way to perfectly capture the voice of the world. All it’s missing is Joseph O’Conor reading the words and it would feel like a direct continuation of the original story. From there the series introduces the reader to Thurma, a fireling, a character made of flame who has come to the surface world in need of the power of the crystal. Her curious nature and lack of knowledge of the surface culture helps to update the audience on what has been happening in the world of Thra. Still, she has a long way to go before she catches up with the heroes of previous tale.

Speaking of which Jen and Kira are back and haven’t lost their charm. Unfortunately, age has caught up to them so all they seem to do lately is sleep. There are worse ways for beloved characters to be portrayed than simply being drowsy all the time because they are so old and have lived such long and productive lives. Hopefully, they’ll get a chance to have one more adventure as the series goes on.

Artwork

The artist team of Kelly and Nicole Matthews delivers a beautiful visual aesthetic to the series. The appearance finds a way to encapsulate the original movie to the point you immediately recognize characters like Aughra or the new Gelflings. The bright, vibrant look of the book and characters makes it seem almost impossible to think this sequel could be told with just puppets. Though let’s be honest, the Muppet studios would have found a way to make it work, but if the movie was still being made there would be no doubt the production team would look to this book for inspiration on where to begin.

Conclusion

If you are a fan of the Dark Crystal, you need to buy the book. It perfectly captures the look and feel of the story. It aids those who wish to journey again to the world of the Thra and encounter all the wonderful characters who inhabit it.