is reporting that Netflix has acquired a prequel TV series to Jim Henson’s The Dark Crystal! The show will blend a mixture of practical and digital FX to bring the dark fantasy world back to life in “The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance“. Production on the series will begin this fall, ahead of a 2018 release. Filmmaker Louis Leterrier (The Incredible Hulk, Clash of the Titans) is on board to direct and produce, backed up by original concept artist Brian Froud and The Jim Henson Creature Shop.
“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,” said Cindy Holland, Vice President of Original Content at Netflix. “I can’t wait for families around the world to see how we bring these unique characters to life.”
“Louis Leterrier is passionate about the world of The Dark Crystal and has an incredible creative vision for the series. 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,” said Lisa Henson, CEO of The Jim Henson Company. “Netflix has a deep respect for my father’s original work and the many people it inspired. They are the perfect partners to create this next epic chapter in The Dark Crystal story for new fans and the loyal fans who have waited so long for more adventures from this world.”
Netflix has ordered a 10-episode inaugural season. In addition to Leterrier, the series will be produced by Lisa Henson, Halle Standford, Rita Peruggi, and Blanca Lista. The writing will be handled by Jeffrey Addiss, Will Matthews, and Javier Grillo-Marxuach. There’s no word at this time as to whether or not this is a reworking of the canceled prequel film, The Power of the Dark Crystal. You can check out the teaser below…
This news comes on the heels of a Labyrinth follow-up going into development over at Sony, with Fede Alvarez on board to co-write and direct. Add in the recent Muppets revivals and Brian Henson’s The Happytime Murders finally getting off the ground soon (with Melissa McCarthy)? Simply put, it’s a good time to be a Henson Company fan.
