The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance

:

Season 1
  • Network: Netflix
  • Series Premiere Date: Aug 30, 2019
User Score
8.6

Universal acclaim- based on 122 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 109 out of 122
  2. Mixed: 7 out of 122
  3. Negative: 6 out of 122
Watch Now

Where To Watch

Stream On

Review this tv show

  1. Your Score
    0 out of 10
    Rate this:
    • 10
    • 9
    • 8
    • 7
    • 6
    • 5
    • 4
    • 3
    • 2
    • 1
    • 0
    • 0
  1. Submit
  2. Check Spelling

User Reviews

view
per page
  1. Voodoo123
    Sep 14, 2019
    10
    +Excellent writing elevates the storytelling
    +Great character/world design
    +Great use of legacy effects +Wonderful soundscape/ost +You can tell this is a passion project for all involved -To have to wait for more story is too much!! I just didn't expect this to happen... That it did, and to this level of quality with minimal CG and great legacy puppet effects is just incredible.    +Excellent writing elevates the storytelling
    +Great character/world design
    +Great use of legacy effects
    +Wonderful soundscape/ost
    +You can tell this is a passion project for all involved
    -To have to wait for more story is too much!!

    I just didn't expect this to happen... That it did, and to this level of quality with minimal CG and great legacy puppet effects is just incredible. The story is excellent and watching this reminds me the potential of this medium to tell a good story. Wondrous stuff - I eagerly anticipate the next season.    … Expand
  2. David83
    Sep 17, 2019
    10
    Wondrous, magical, exhilarating. There are actually no words to do this masterpiece justice. I was completely transported into this world and felt like a kid again (35 years old now) Perfectly paced and not rushed at all so the characters get a chance to develop. Best fantasy series I've ever seen
  3. Judec
    Sep 5, 2019
    10
    It is amazing! It's beautiful, it's smart, it's intense and sensitive. They managed to put together an interesting plot with a sweeping production.
  4. adamgn
    Oct 15, 2019
    10
    I'll admit it took me an episode or two to adjust to the puppets and how that affects certain aspects. But by episode three I was hooked. Incredible story, dark themes, serious storytelling. I loved it.
  5. dunboy7
    Sep 29, 2019
    10
    Absolutely incredible show, well done netflix for taking a risk on not only producing this but doing it right. The puppetry was great and the cgi kept to a minimum. Enjoyed every episode, just as a shame its over. One of the easiest 10/10 i have ever given.
  6. Poochingus
    Nov 20, 2019
    9
    I never watched the original dark crystal movie. I didn't even know it existed as I'm not a big movie buff.

    But when I stumbled on this I was curious, usually netflix exclusives are terrible trash meant to be used as tax write off(I mean what other excuse is there?) But this shocked me. I wasn't sure how to feel at first. Puppets to tell a serious fantasy story was rather shocking.    I never watched the original dark crystal movie. I didn't even know it existed as I'm not a big movie buff.

    But when I stumbled on this I was curious, usually netflix exclusives are terrible trash meant to be used as tax write off(I mean what other excuse is there?)

    But this shocked me. I wasn't sure how to feel at first. Puppets to tell a serious fantasy story was rather shocking. It took me time to get used to it, but I was actually rather impressed with how articulate they were. The sets were all gorgeous and the props too. It seemed like a lot of effort was put into the show overall. Being as keen eyed as I was, I could easily tell what was CGI, and what wasn't. However I can say that for the most part it was used tastefully to not ruin things and clash. It was used as a tool and not a crutch for the most part. Especially of note was the CGI tongues on the Skexis puppets. It actually took me a while to realize it, only because I was like "wait, a puppet shouldn't have a tongue that does that!". It was that subtle.

    But the real tell of a good story is the story itself, or else no amount of pretty effects and sets will make up. I can say that the voice cast was nearly flawless. The amount of emotion many of the actors output was great, and it always struck the right emotion. The....er puppet acting, was also very well done. I can only imagine how hard that must have been, but it was all splendid and connected with the voices and didn't betray the scenes.

    The writing was also wonderful. It felt like a true old fashioned fantasy of the type that I wish we had more of. Magic that can just be magic. Magic that is from the earth itself(or should I say thra itself). Whimsical lifeforms too. It all just works, and doesn't try to overly explain itself to the point that it becomes Science fiction.

    I loved the story, the stakes were high, and the heroes seemed really like their backs were against the wall. The many loses were not in vain, not ever, but they always made you feel like there was still hope. In the end, I wanted more. I think that is the sign of a good show. I don't know if they intend to film more, but it seemed to stop at a good point for a season 2. I do hope there is more because of the cliffhanger ending. However I can for sure say that if they do more, I hope it doesn't drag on. I like a show to know when and how to end, and better do it in 1 or 2 seasons than die a slow painful death over 9 seasons. Though I think this show is too much work to make drag on that long.

    In the end, I can't believe this exists, the amount of love, effort, talent and frankly money put into this must have been massive. Not for everyone, but for what it is, this show is top notch watching.    … Expand
  7. Rick-Cast
    Jan 13, 2020
    10
    Really awesome show...something kids are missing these days.
    This prequel succeeds in what the Lion King and Aladdin remake fails. I've loved the orginal film, still have the VHS that still works fine., but I always felt like there more to tell about this story. This prequel gives me exactly what I've been wishing for. The puppets don't feel like puppets, but like real people and you can    Really awesome show...something kids are missing these days.
    This prequel succeeds in what the Lion King and Aladdin remake fails. I've loved the orginal film, still have the VHS that still works fine., but I always felt like there more to tell about this story. This prequel gives me exactly what I've been wishing for. The puppets don't feel like puppets, but like real people and you can connect with them.
    The CGI mixed with the practical effects works wonders. I love how this show can be so kid friendly yet so dark at the same time. The show is rich with it's own lore, great characters, fantastic villains that steal most of the spotlight,stories and world design.
    Kids will love this show if their parents will let them see it, it is a masterpiece that cannot be missed.    … Expand
  8. treestand
    Sep 7, 2019
    10
    Dark Crystal was one of my favorite films growing up. It remains one of the few films I enjoyed as a child but can appreciate just as much, if not more, as an adult. When I heard about this 'revival' I immediately tempered my expectations. I assumed it was just another cash grab that would never hold its own against the original and could potentially tarnish the name and memory of aDark Crystal was one of my favorite films growing up. It remains one of the few films I enjoyed as a child but can appreciate just as much, if not more, as an adult. When I heard about this 'revival' I immediately tempered my expectations. I assumed it was just another cash grab that would never hold its own against the original and could potentially tarnish the name and memory of a masterpiece. Thankfully, 'Age of Resistance' is an exception to the rule, and I could not be more thrilled about it. 'Resistance' is not only a seamless follow up to the film, but it expands upon the world, story and designs in ways that prove that this was a work built on love, trust and compassion for the source material. The series isn't a mere puppet show, it is a fully realized fantasy epic that holds its own against all the classics. (But it is also an excellent puppet show, and at times, an excellent puppet show within an excellent puppet show.) I hope 'Resistance' begins a new renaissance for masterfully crafted fantasy stories free of the dull grit and insta-dated CG that has inundated the industry in recent years. "Resistance' is a breath of fresh air, which is surprising coming from a 36 year old puppetry property. The characters, the artistry, the acting, it's all gold. Watch this, share this, and see what it means to love your work and utilize the gift of imagination we all hold within our hearts.… Expand
  9. tiaga
    Sep 4, 2019
    10
    The series from beginning to end was to put it simply... VISUALLY BEAUTIFUL! Every episode well thought out with its own unique climax. Every character has a different look and interesting character progression as the series moves forward from episode to episode. The music was well timed with the drama that evoked emotion with every suspenseful climax. No lazy writing here or cheapThe series from beginning to end was to put it simply... VISUALLY BEAUTIFUL! Every episode well thought out with its own unique climax. Every character has a different look and interesting character progression as the series moves forward from episode to episode. The music was well timed with the drama that evoked emotion with every suspenseful climax. No lazy writing here or cheap thrills. If your still reading, do yourself a favor and start watching it.… Expand
  10. okc_rocker
    Sep 2, 2019
    10
    This show is light, dark, sad, and joyful. But it's absolutely epic and one of the most charming things I've experienced. The effects, music, singing, and voice acting are all amazing! Not once during the season did I feel unnecessary scenes. Everything that happened had a purpose, and everything came together so well. I never felt bored, and I lost sleep for it. It was worth it! Hup is my hero.
  11. Hipnotizer
    Aug 31, 2019
    10
    I saw the original in 1982 and it was so amazing. Now 37 years later we finally get a spectacular continuation of the storyline. It definitely dwarfs the original in scope, vision, story and special effects. Netflix and the Henson company have given the dark Crystal franchise the treatment that it deserves. The story arches feel very relevant with what is happening in the world today. EachI saw the original in 1982 and it was so amazing. Now 37 years later we finally get a spectacular continuation of the storyline. It definitely dwarfs the original in scope, vision, story and special effects. Netflix and the Henson company have given the dark Crystal franchise the treatment that it deserves. The story arches feel very relevant with what is happening in the world today. Each episode feels more like a feature film than just a series. Superbly executed, fantastic world building and character development and simply hypnotizing to watch. Highly recommended!… Expand
  12. Raphael2017
    Aug 30, 2019
    10
    A história me surpreendeu, fotografia linda e nostálgica, já me pegou no primeiro episódio.
  13. sayobel
    Sep 2, 2019
    10
    Every bit as beautiful as I wanted it to be, supported by an incredible cast, the best puppeteering in the world, and an exceptionally well-executed story that both captured the essence of the original and carved out a place for itself in today's cornucopia of high quality television offerings. It's topical, dark without being grimdark, hopeful without being saccharine, and completeEvery bit as beautiful as I wanted it to be, supported by an incredible cast, the best puppeteering in the world, and an exceptionally well-executed story that both captured the essence of the original and carved out a place for itself in today's cornucopia of high quality television offerings. It's topical, dark without being grimdark, hopeful without being saccharine, and complete without being over. I am so, so grateful to Netflix and the Hensons for deciding to bring this world into now and I am anxious to see more!… Expand
  14. igor108367
    Sep 6, 2019
    10
    THE DARK CRYSTAL: AGE OF RESISTANCE is a gorgeous show. It looks and feels amazing. Its a puppet show so if people dont lie that shoud avoid it. but if you can get to it its the est it can be. Nothing match this.
  15. DarknesShade
    Sep 9, 2019
    10
    An Masterpiece Series prequel to a Masterpiece of a Film.

    The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance, has something above many Prequel/Sequel series... it can be enjoyed by people who have never seen/heard of the original Film! actually, i can make people want to see the original! it hold strong in it's own, and that's amazin', the Mythology of the World is so strong that it can be enjoyed    An Masterpiece Series prequel to a Masterpiece of a Film.

    The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance, has something above many Prequel/Sequel series... it can be enjoyed by people who have never seen/heard of the original Film! actually, i can make people want to see the original! it hold strong in it's own, and that's amazin', the Mythology of the World is so strong that it can be enjoyed without needing all the pieces in place, still it does keep you curious enough to check out the rest~

    i'm really bad at reviewin' but... this Series is a perfect 10 from me, the original still is my Favorite Movie of all time, and this series did not disappoint in any regard! except... that it ends!

    People say it's "Game of Thrones" or "Lord of the Rings" for kids, and i say, it's "Muppets" or "Sesame Street" for adults!
    but it is perfect for any age!    … Expand
  16. ShaunDavidKing
    Sep 12, 2019
    10
    Brings back the magic of Jim Henson. Visually stunning; artistic style very much like the original Dark Crystal but even better. Excellent voice acting. Highly recommend.
  17. judaslmonster
    Aug 31, 2019
    10
    I never watched the movie but I saw the trailers for this show and I immediately decided I had to watch it. I admit people like me who never watched the original movie might have trouble getting used to the puppets, it might seem weird at first, so I think it's great that they did a mix of puppets + CGI. Anyways, I just finished episode 5 and I'm officially hooked, it's amazing. If you'reI never watched the movie but I saw the trailers for this show and I immediately decided I had to watch it. I admit people like me who never watched the original movie might have trouble getting used to the puppets, it might seem weird at first, so I think it's great that they did a mix of puppets + CGI. Anyways, I just finished episode 5 and I'm officially hooked, it's amazing. If you're like me, you're gonna watch the first 3 episodes and be like "it's definitely good but I don't know if I'm truly a fan" but you have to keep going. By the end of episode 5 you should officially want to binge-watch until the end.… Expand
  18. pdelguy
    Aug 31, 2019
    10
    I loved how much work they put into it....great story , fascinating characters and a lot of room to expand it more
  19. cmrock456
    Sep 3, 2019
    10
    Beautifully done and well made! It's everything that I hoped a Dark Crystal series could be!
  20. murillohcb
    Aug 31, 2019
    8
    If Jim Henson was still alive he would be totally proud of this chapter of his characters
  21. aqaraza
    Sep 1, 2019
    10
    This series has fulfilled and gone beyond my wildest hopes for the story, both incorporating and evolving themes that have been there since The Dark Crystal in its original form. Interviews reveal that 95% of what you see on screen is flesh-and-blood classic puppetry. CG was used only for backgrounds and stray items. If you're seeing uncanny visuals, check your TV's Motion Smoothing andThis series has fulfilled and gone beyond my wildest hopes for the story, both incorporating and evolving themes that have been there since The Dark Crystal in its original form. Interviews reveal that 95% of what you see on screen is flesh-and-blood classic puppetry. CG was used only for backgrounds and stray items. If you're seeing uncanny visuals, check your TV's Motion Smoothing and turn it almost all down. This needs to be savored like film.

    On a technical as well as a story level, it takes an immense amount of bravery and focus to achieve what they have achieved with this series. Every review you are likely to find out there says as much, aside from the mysterious, wordless two that at present count are weighing down this incredible work of imagination.

    If you live in the actual real world, and are receptive and aware of what besets it and challenges us as our climate dissolves and our communities implode, then you will find a deep and lifelong love in this story and its characters. Highest recommendation from a lifelong fan of The Dark Crystal.    … Expand
  22. Carewolf
    Sep 3, 2019
    6
    There is something seriously weird with the animation and in particular the camera movements. I has the unnaturaly swooping CGI camera over land, and in fight scenes they just seem to be shaking the camera up and down and back and forth just to make things look terrible (probably because otherwise it would just be puppets bumbing into each other US: World Police style).

    The enemies are    There is something seriously weird with the animation and in particular the camera movements. I has the unnaturaly swooping CGI camera over land, and in fight scenes they just seem to be shaking the camera up and down and back and forth just to make things look terrible (probably because otherwise it would just be puppets bumbing into each other US: World Police style).

    The enemies are really cartoonishly evil. There is a lore reason (ish) for that, but it gets really old really fast. And the rest of the world seemed to base their action more on what is needed to progress the story than what would be more in line with their character...

    In short:
    Interesting world
    Terrible camera work (and CGI camera work)
    Silly villains
    Inconsistent characters.    … Expand
  23. whosthatusernam
    Aug 30, 2019
    7
    It seems good so far, interesting characters and nostalgia, but why are the negative audience responses being removed?
  24. ArminW
    Sep 2, 2019
    10
    I watched the original movie in '82 when I was 13 years old, and was a fan ever since.
    Was sceptical about a prequel TV series until I read that Jim Henson's Daughter is actually producing and Brian Froud is still on board for the world design. So we planned to watch the first few episodes on the weekend and see how they live up to the movie. Some 12 hours and 10 episodes later (with only    I watched the original movie in '82 when I was 13 years old, and was a fan ever since.
    Was sceptical about a prequel TV series until I read that Jim Henson's Daughter is actually producing and Brian Froud is still on board for the world design. So we planned to watch the first few episodes on the weekend and see how they live up to the movie. Some 12 hours and 10 episodes later (with only the most minor breaks), I'm still blown away.
    The look of world is simply amazing. The attention to detail, the creativity and sheer love put into every scene is something I haven't seen in a long time. This is an old-fashioned, hand-crafted movie in the best possible sense. And the way the story and world-building weave themselves slowly into the lore of the 37-year old film is absolutely perfect.
    Unlike in many other Netflix shows, none of the 10 Episodes ever feels superfluous, or too long, or like uninspired filler material - you simple never get enough from the world and peoples of Thra.
    The voice cast is absolutely stellar - no matter where you live (Germany here, the dubbing is OK but simply can't hold water to Sigourney Weaver, Mark Hamill, Jason Isaacs, Simon Peg, Natalie Emanuel and all the others!), try watching it in the original English version.
    Would give this piece of art an 11 if I could. They simply don't make 'em like this any more... :)    … Expand
  25. CrimsonFlush
    Aug 30, 2019
    10
    Absolutely beautiful in a style you just can't find anymore. It mesmerized me as an 11 year old kid in 1982 and thankfully they stayed true to using real puppets, instead of creating characters with that CGI crap like Lion King did and failed at. The story is more relevant today than ever as the Amazon Forest burns as I post this and the world becomes a darker place filled withAbsolutely beautiful in a style you just can't find anymore. It mesmerized me as an 11 year old kid in 1982 and thankfully they stayed true to using real puppets, instead of creating characters with that CGI crap like Lion King did and failed at. The story is more relevant today than ever as the Amazon Forest burns as I post this and the world becomes a darker place filled with uncertainty. I really hope they decide to do a 2nd season and maybe a do-over on the movie version so we get an in depth story that can be fleshed out in a TV series.… Expand
  26. bartiorama
    Sep 3, 2019
    9
    Im 37 yo and I've never been a fan of Muppets or Sesame Street and even didn't see the original movie from 1982. I was curious and start to watch it. I'm so surprised to myself, that I have totally fall in love with this world. True masterpiece and true gem on Netflix. I needed 2 or 3 episodes to use to puppets because it was odd for me. After a whole season I think that puppets techniqueIm 37 yo and I've never been a fan of Muppets or Sesame Street and even didn't see the original movie from 1982. I was curious and start to watch it. I'm so surprised to myself, that I have totally fall in love with this world. True masterpiece and true gem on Netflix. I needed 2 or 3 episodes to use to puppets because it was odd for me. After a whole season I think that puppets technique is the power of the show. All detail, truly living world, designed with every smallest detail, Breathless. Amazing work of producers. Definitely not for 7+ kids, more like 13+ :). Very recommended!!!… Expand
  27. Maverick_X
    Sep 2, 2019
    10
    The dark Crystal age of resistente is awsm , is the new got of fantasy , you Will laungh Will cry hate and love all creature of of his universe obra de arte amigo!! And hard Work of production
  28. OlivierPiel
    Sep 3, 2019
    0
    Had to stop 15 min in. The cinematography is nauseating: Maybe puppets and camera action do not work and felt disjunct (in particular when the eyes do not move with the rest of the body). The villains are not so much scary as unbelievably grating in their design and voices. Really unbearable. Plus, the story background, the world building at the start of the show, doesn't make any senseHad to stop 15 min in. The cinematography is nauseating: Maybe puppets and camera action do not work and felt disjunct (in particular when the eyes do not move with the rest of the body). The villains are not so much scary as unbelievably grating in their design and voices. Really unbearable. Plus, the story background, the world building at the start of the show, doesn't make any sense whatsoever.… Expand
  29. Estoniantoad
    Sep 1, 2019
    10
    So this looks a lot like Avatar but as the series. Or should I say it beats Avatar, because it´s already here, but Avatar is still in ... avatar. And the bad creatures are from Star Wars. All right - now I know - this is Avatar in Star Wars, yes now I get it. But i like it, because in Avatar Sigourney died, but here the crystal keeps her voice alive.
  30. ScienceAdvisor
    Nov 9, 2019
    5
    The movements of both the puppet's limbs and lips are triggering an uncanny valley effect, ripping me out of any immersion. When they focus the camera so that you cannot see legs the effect is less of a distraction, but then you pickup more of the desync with the lips. Also the story was quite childish, making little to no sense in many respects. It is clear that they were trying toThe movements of both the puppet's limbs and lips are triggering an uncanny valley effect, ripping me out of any immersion. When they focus the camera so that you cannot see legs the effect is less of a distraction, but then you pickup more of the desync with the lips. Also the story was quite childish, making little to no sense in many respects. It is clear that they were trying to appeal to adults, but failed. This should be considered a child's program in the 4-12 year old range, at which I would consider it an 8, but labelled adult this is merely a 5.… Expand
  31. Solantus
    Sep 3, 2019
    10
    Like Old Times Listen a Good Tale without worrying anything. When I Start watching ı dont understand how time goes and how we come to The end this soon.
  32. Ciro
    Sep 11, 2019
    10
    Addictive! Everything is made with so much love that while I was watching I was feeling sorry that it was going to end eventually.
  33. opiiou
    Sep 21, 2019
    9
    What can i say?
    A wonderfully crafted world, with interesting lore and characters.
    S-Tier puppetry.
    Its just awesome, and in the documentary you can actually see how much heart the creators put into this whole project.
  34. marcmyworks
    Sep 17, 2019
    9
    This is a wonderful series that brings the magic of the film and adds a deeper level of story. Because this is a prequel the plot points of the film stick in the back of my mind, however I can't wait to see what season 2 will bring for our heroes.
  35. Antiquecardboar
    Sep 30, 2019
    7
    The show is a visual and cinematic wonder with astonishing character and world design and a decent story...but with one MAJOR flaw: the cartoonish bad guys. Every time the Skeksis appeared on screen I was pulled out of the story and found myself thinking: Why is this so stupid? The Skeksis are non-threatening, 1-dimensional caricatures of evil. Their presence, complete with slapstickThe show is a visual and cinematic wonder with astonishing character and world design and a decent story...but with one MAJOR flaw: the cartoonish bad guys. Every time the Skeksis appeared on screen I was pulled out of the story and found myself thinking: Why is this so stupid? The Skeksis are non-threatening, 1-dimensional caricatures of evil. Their presence, complete with slapstick shenanigans and evil voices, serve to deflate all tension from the story and make the heroes (the Gelflings) look like complete morons for letting themselves become subjugated to these losers. Yes the show is beautiful...but you can't blindly give this show a 10/10 when the main antagonists are so "stupid" (there is no other word for it). The show is worth a watch just because it is something different and you can feel the love and care that was put into the design...but it pains me to say that this is not the masterpiece you are looking for.… Expand
  36. Datemasmaune
    Jul 14, 2020
    10
    Absolutely masterpiece one of the kind. Almost every part of the sceoneography is hand made. Must watch.
  37. geewah
    Jan 15, 2021
    6
    Disappointing.
    The dead eyed Gelfling puppets as well as some really clunky dialogue are too distracting, from what is a decent prequel story.

Awards & Rankings

31
#31 Best TV Season of 2019
18
#18 Most Discussed TV Season of 2019
84
#84 Most Shared TV Season of 2019

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
82

Universal acclaim - based on 20 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 15 out of 20
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 20
  3. Negative: 0 out of 20
  1. The Telegraph
    Reviewed by: Ed Power
    Jan 3, 2020
    60
    There are real pleasures to be had watching beautiful puppets running, kissing and poking each others’ eyes out. But the Dark Crystal is in such a hurry to create a splash it plunges off the deep end too soon.
    Read full review
  2. The Guardian
    Reviewed by: Jack Seale
    Dec 4, 2019
    60
    Those invested in this world will lap up every nuance, meaning that, for better or worse, The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance is unabashedly a fans-only thing.
    Read full review
  3. The Daily Beast
    Reviewed by: Nick Schager
    Sep 3, 2019
    100
    The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance isn’t just a masterwork of practical puppeteering, production design, and CGI artistry. .... This return to the planet Thra exceeds any and all nostalgia-tinged expectations, delivering a multi-strand quest that’s exciting, funny, charming, and mythic—and sure to satisfy newbies and die-hards alike. ... It’s the rare prequel (or sequel, for that matter) that not only justifies its own existence but proves to be an immediate genre classic in its own right.
    Read full review
See all critic reviews »